Bridging Treatment and Peer Support: The Power of Peer Support

About

Supporting Individuals Engaged in Opioid Use Disorder Treatment for Peer Recovery Support Specialists (PRSS)

Designed specifically for peer professionals and other recovery support providers, this 90-minute webinar focuses on effective strategies for supporting individuals engaged in treatment for opioid, stimulant, and other substance use disorders. Participants will explore the unique role of peer-based support, including building trust, encouraging treatment engagement, reinforcing recovery goals, and maintaining appropriate boundaries while collaborating with clinical providers.

The webinar will also address common myths, stigma, and negative biases surrounding medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD). Through practical tools and real-world scenarios, attendees will strengthen their ability to support individuals in making informed recovery choices, sustaining engagement in services, and working toward long-term recovery goals.

Learning Objectives:

Participants will be able to describe the role of peer professionals in supporting individuals receiving treatment for opioid, stimulant, and other substance use disorders.Participants will be able to demonstrate strategies for encouraging engagement, adherence, and progress within treatment settings.Participants will be able to identify appropriate boundaries and professional responsibilities when providing peer-based support services.Presented by: Chris Allende, CPSS

Chris Allende is a behavioral health leader, trainer, and recovery advocate with more than 20 years of lived and professional experience in recovery. He currently serves as Director of Organizational and Community Relations at St. Monica’s and Chair of the NAADAC Peer Council. Chris has extensive experience in peer support, substance use recovery, training and technical assistance, crisis response, and workforce development. A Nebraska State Certified Peer Support Specialist, SMART Recovery Facilitator, and WRAP Advanced Level Facilitator, Chris is passionate about strengthening the peer workforce, reducing stigma, and advancing person-centered approaches to recovery. He is bilingual in English and Spanish.

Continuing Education Units: 1.5 CEUs

This training is approved for continuing education by the boards listed here.

Funding for this activity was made possible in whole or in part by the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Director’s Office through the Fund for a Resilient Nevada, established in Nevada Revised Statutes 433.712 through 433.744. The opinions, findings, conclusions, and recommendations expressed in our courses are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the official views of the Nevada Opioid Center of Excellence or its funders.