PEERS
A Model of Supervision for Peer Support Workers
What is the PEERS Model?
The PEERS Model of Supervision builds on components from Social Work and other helping professions to provide a clear, concise model to ensure peer support workers receive the supervision they deserve.
Components of the PEERS Model
Paraprofessional
First and foremost a Peer Support Worker is a paraprofessional. It is imperative that a supervisor assists in the development of professional skills and a professional self.
Experience
The lived experience of the peer support worker is foundation of their role. It is critical for supervisors to assist Peers in utilizing this experience effectively.
Education
Providing a Peer Support Worker with opportunities to be educated about the work they do, the individuals they serve and the provision of services is a critical function of supervision.
Responsibility
A Peer Support Worker needs to be assigned specific responsibilities within their role as a peer and held accountable for those responsibilities.
Support
All supervision must be provided through a framework of supporting the Peer Support Worker as they engage in the challenging role of a Peer Support Worker.
The Development of the PEERS Model of Supervision
Building on Alfred Kudishin's Supervision in Social Work and its focus on three major components; Administrative, Educational, and Supportive.
Why Use the PEERS Model for Supervision?
Supervisors of Peer Support Workers face many unique challenges as they provide supervision. Below are answers to some of the common challenges that supervisors encounter.
