- Can you describe your personal struggles and recovery process? …
- What techniques would you use to help a client who is threatening to relapse? …
- What signs would indicate a deviation from a client’s recovery plan?
RI Interview with Peer Support Specialist
Example: “I am very familiar with the mental health challenges and disabilities I will be working with as a peer support specialist. In my last role, I worked closely with individuals who had schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression and anxiety disorders. I was trained on how to help these individuals cope with their conditions and find ways to manage their symptoms.”
This question can help the interviewer determine if you have experience working with clients who may need more support than others. Peer support specialists often work with people who are experiencing homelessness, mental illness or substance abuse issues. These individuals may also be struggling with physical disabilities and other challenges that require additional support.
Example: “I believe it’s important to meet with each client at least once per week. This allows me to get to know them better and understand what challenges they’re experiencing. I also find that weekly meetings allow me to help my clients more quickly when they need assistance. If a client is having an emergency situation, I will meet with them immediately to ensure they are getting the care they need.”
Example: “In my last role, I worked with a client who was struggling with anxiety. She wanted to overcome her anxiety so she could go back to work, but she felt like she couldn’t do it on her own. We talked about what helped her feel calm before and during her panic attacks, and we created a plan for when she started feeling anxious at work. After two weeks of practicing calming techniques, she reported that she no longer had panic attacks while working.”
If I am unable to calm the client down, I will call for backup. I want to ensure that everyone remains safe at all times. If possible, I will also suggest that the client take a break until they feel calmer. Sometimes taking a few minutes away from the situation allows them to regain their composure.”
In this guide, you will find sample questions and answers that will help you prepare for a job interview as a peer specialist.
Example: “I believe the most important thing peer specialists can do is listen to our students. When I first started working as a peer specialist, I thought my job was just about enforcing rules and making sure students were following the school’s code of conduct. However, I quickly learned that listening to students is one of the best ways we can support them. If they know that someone is willing to listen to them, it makes them feel more comfortable opening up and sharing their thoughts.”
Peer specialists often work with students who may be experiencing challenges in their lives. Employers ask this question to make sure you have the interpersonal skills necessary to help these students succeed. In your answer, explain how you can maintain a positive attitude while working with challenging clients. Share some strategies that you use to stay motivated and encourage others.
Example: “I’ve worked as a peer specialist for five years now, so I am very familiar with the various treatment options that are available to my clients. I also regularly attend training sessions on new treatments and therapies that can help our patients. For example, I recently attended a seminar about the benefits of mindfulness techniques and how they can be used to treat anxiety disorders.”
Peer specialists are mental health professionals who have experienced a mental health or addiction disorder and have recovered. They use their personal experience to help others who are experiencing a mental health disorder.
I must say that Amber truly gives us a “pair of shoes” to walk with her in her peer work as a volunteer on the behavioral health unit at a local hospital. I was so encouraged by her level of commitment, insight, and intentionality that she brings to her peer work. Be encouraged with me as she shares her insights regarding how she views success, her most rewarding experiences and advice she gives to other peers here in NC.
FAQ
What questions are asked in a peer interview?
- How would you handle a conflict with a coworker without addressing your supervisor? …
- What are your ideal traits for a coworker? …
- What words would you use to describe the ideal employee? …
- How would you rate your teamwork skills?
What strengths do you have that will help you be a great peer support specialist?
- Communication Skills.
- Advocacy Skills.
- Recovery & Resiliency Skills.
- Empowerment Skills.
- Skills Specific To Working In A Professional Environment.
Why do you want to be a peer specialist?
How do you pass a peer interview?
- Observe and listen. This is more generic, but get a sense for the office culture. …
- Ask questions. The same skills ring true for your peer interviews. …
- Then ask the same questions again. …
- Go higher. …
- Pay close attention to body language.
