Although Peer Support Specialists are being utilized more and more in the field of Human Services, much of the community and some in the behavioral health field still have the response, “Is that like a sponsor?”. This shows a complete lack of understanding when it comes to the importance, uniqueness, and role of a Peer Support Specialist. Attendees will explore recent data as well as other research collected over the last 20 years showing the effectiveness of Peer Support Specialists. During this presentation, attendees will be provided with information about the role of a Peer Support Specialist and how implementing these services can improve public health and assist individuals in recovery from substance use disorders. The presenter will use lived experience and professional knowledge to facilitate this training.
Michael Crouch is a Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS) through Addiction Professionals of SC and has a Bachelor’s in Human Services/Behavioral Health. He has a vast knowledge of peer recovery services and uses lived experience as well as evidence-based practices to help individuals and families affected by substance use disorder (SUD). Michael has experience working in multiple settings such as outpatient treatment, office-based opioid treatment, overdose follow-ups with emergency services, managing an ARCO and CAPRSS Recovery Community Center, training for PSS certification, and is currently positioned as a Peer Recovery Coordinator with Prisma Health Addiction Medicine Center. Michael is passionate about advocating for those who have been marginalized by society due to the stigma of living with a substance use disorder. He is a strong believer in strength-based, person-centered, and trauma-informed approaches to treating substance use disorders and other mental health conditions.
