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This opportunity came when I was in the early stages of recovery
from a mental illness. I was a primary school teacher, but had
not been employed for two years.
In 2005 I completed the Peer Employment Training Programme that
was organised and funded by Counties Manukau DHB. After this, I
got a job as a Peer Support Specialist in a community mental
health centre. Four years later, I’m now the professional leader
for Peer Support Specialists in mental health.
Peer Support Specialists are people that have had a personal
experience with recovering from mental illness. We now have a
passion for helping others to recover. There are many skills
from other disciplines and life experiences that can be used in
health. Effective communication, organisation skills and an
ability to remain calm under pressure are skills you can draw on
in this role.
I was impressed that CMDHB created the Peer Support Specialist
role within mental health services. It shows that they recognise
the experience of patients and how valuable this experience is
in helping other patients’ recovery.
Are you looking for a job that can help people live their
lives? Ask about a job in mental health services!
Cassandra
For more information contact:
Cassandra Laskey
Professional Leader
for Peer Support Specialists
Counties Manukau District Health Board
Phone: 09 276 0044 ext 8022
Email:
Cassandra.laskey@cmdhb.org.nz |
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