Building Success Embedding Peers on Mobile Teams-View Presentation

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Video Summary

The recent SMI Advisor webinar, led by Alexia Wolf, focused on the integration of peer support specialists into mobile crisis teams. Speakers Steve Michio and Maureen Bailey discussed the strategies and benefits of structured peer involvement in crisis intervention settings. Michio shared insights from his extensive experience in crisis response, highlighting the importance of mutuality, performance-based supervision, and person-centered care in reducing hospitalization and incarceration rates. He emphasized the role of peers in fostering hope and empowerment among individuals experiencing crises, challenging traditional clinical approaches that can often be fear-based and restrictive.<br /><br />Bailey discussed the development of peer support in Washington State, including the expansion of services through the introduction of new trainings tailored to peer support in crisis contexts. This involves a 40-hour crisis training for peer counselors, emphasizing cultural sensitivity, communications skills, and trauma-informed practices. These initiatives align with statewide efforts to shift crisis responses away from law enforcement towards behavioral health solutions, enhanced by the launch of the 988 crisis hotline.<br /><br />Participants were encouraged to utilize resources such as the SMI Advisor app and other online trainings available from the Washington State Healthcare Authority. The session highlighted ongoing challenges, including role clarifications between peers and traditional clinicians, and the need for organizational readiness to fully embrace peer involvement in mental health care ecosystems.

Keywords

peer support

mobile crisis teams

crisis intervention

person-centered care

peer involvement

crisis training

behavioral health

988 crisis hotline

trauma-informed practices

mental health care