February 2025

Peer Roles in CARE

A peer is an individual self-identified as having lived experience with the recovery process (either as a consumer or as the parent or family member of the consumer) and can help others experiencing similar situations. In the CARE process, peers may serve as part of the county BH team (e.g., crisis outreach, homeless outreach, treatment teams), volunteer supporters, embedded in courts and public defender firms, or as part of a peer organization. Peers can be volunteers, employed by county BH or other implementation partners, or they can work with contracted providers or community agencies.

Resources and training materials have been developed to outline the role of peers in CARE. County BH teams and their implementation partners can support peers by providing them with the knowledge and tools needed to perform their roles successfully. Additionally, county BH can prioritize recruiting peers to existing teams that carry out CARE processes. Consider reviewing the training materials and resources related to peer support in the CARE process, including:

Role of the Peer in the CARE Process: This training provides an overview of how peers can participate in CARE, such as a volunteer supporter, as part of the behavioral health team, or as part of a peer organization. It discusses principles and core competencies of peer workers, including strategies and resources available for peers.
Three-part series on taking a trauma-informed approach: This series overviews the impact of trauma on an individual. The second training outlines the goals of trauma-informed care and principles, including positive peer and natural supports. County BH and their partners can apply these principles to CARE implementation.   
Many peer organizations offer trainings for peers in California, including National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) programs for county-specific training. For more information visit the NAMI Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist Certification Training website.

Additionally, the California Mental Health Services Authority (CalMHSA) has a comprehensive website on the Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialists training, exam, best practices, study guide, and more. Below are links to the website.