Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist Practice Exam

Which of the following is a typical responsibility of a Peer Support Specialist?

1. Providing medical treatment to clients

2. Helping a person set goals for work, life, or relationships

3. Managing the entire treatment plan of the client

4. Giving medical advice

The correct answer is: Helping a person set goals for work, life, or relationships

Helping a person set goals for work, life, or relationships is a fundamental responsibility of a Peer Support Specialist. This role emphasizes the importance of personal development and empowerment in the recovery process of individuals facing mental health or substance use challenges. A Peer Support Specialist utilizes their lived experiences to guide clients in identifying their aspirations, facilitating discussions on what success looks like for them, and supporting the person in breaking down goals into actionable steps. This approach is rooted in the principles of peer support, which focuses on mutual support and shared experiences, rather than providing clinical services or treatment. While other options may involve elements of support, they fall outside the typical scope of a Peer Support Specialist's responsibilities. For example, providing medical treatment or advice is the responsibility of qualified healthcare professionals, and managing an entire treatment plan goes beyond the supportive, peer-based role. By focusing on goal setting, Peer Support Specialists foster autonomy and encourage clients to actively participate in their own recovery journeys.