Evolution of the Peer Specialist Role During COVID-19: Challenges and Opportunities for Innovation Beyond the COVID-19 Era

Objective: To examine peer specialist role-related challenges and opportunities in adapting to a new model of service provision during and beyond the COVID-19 era. Method: This mixed-methods study analyzes data from a survey (n = 186) as well as in-depth interviews (n = 30) with certified peer specialists in Texas. Results: Peers described facing several challenges related to COVID-19 service delivery (e.g., fewer options for providing peer support, issues with access to reliable technology) as well as challenges related to adapting to changes to the peer role (e.g., challenges supporting people in services' community resource needs, challenges building rapport with people in services virtually). However, results also indicate that a new model of service provision during and beyond the COVID-19 pandemic presented peers with new opportunities to provide enhanced peer services, new career development opportunities, and new opportunities related to increased job flexibility. Conclusions and Implications for Practice: Results suggest the importance of developing trainings on providing virtual peer support, increasing technological access for peers and individuals in services, and providing peers with flexible job options and resiliency-focused supervision. Impact and Implications This study provides strategies to support peer specialists in adapting to a new model of service provision beyond the COVID-19 era, including providing peers with training on telehealth services and digital literacy, as well as access to affordable and reliable broadband internet and internet-enabled devices and opportunities for flexible job options.