A peer is an individual self-identified as having lived experience with the recovery process who can help others experiencing similar situations. Peer workers (including peer support specialists) that serve in a professional role on the county behavioral health team build trust with the respondent, participate in outreach and engagement efforts, and provide recovery-oriented support.

A volunteer supporter is an adult chosen by the respondent to provide support throughout the CARE process and to promote the respondent’s preferences, choices, and autonomy. The volunteer supporter may be a family member or friend, and may or may not have lived experience. It is not recommended that a peer worker serving on the CARE team also act as a volunteer supporter, as it may compromise their ability to serve as a neutral advocate in the volunteer supporter role.

For more information, see Role of the Peer in the CARE Process training, the CARE in Practice: Building a Culture of Support training, and the Volunteer Supporter Toolkit.