Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist Practice Exam

What should a Peer Support Specialist do if a consumer struggles to create a plan for managing future behavioral health crises?

1. Make a plan for them

2. Work with the consumer to come up with a plan together

3. Provide them with a generic template

4. Refer them to another specialist

The correct answer is: Work with the consumer to come up with a plan together

The preferred approach involves collaborating with the consumer to create a plan together. This method emphasizes the importance of empowerment and autonomy in the consumer's journey toward managing their own behavioral health. By working alongside the consumer, the Peer Support Specialist can facilitate a sense of ownership and agency, which are crucial for effective self-management. This process allows the consumer to express their unique needs, preferences, and insights about their behaviors and triggers. Engaging in a collaborative planning process also fosters a supportive relationship, reinforcing trust and encouraging the consumer to actively participate in their care. While making a plan for the consumer might seem efficient, it can undermine their ability to develop the skills and resilience necessary to handle future crises. Providing a generic template, on the other hand, lacks the personalized approach that is essential for addressing individual circumstances effectively. Referring the consumer to another specialist might be appropriate under certain conditions, but in this scenario, it doesn't actively involve the consumer in managing their own challenges, which is a core aspect of the Peer Support Specialist's role.