1. (a) The purpose of this part is to define the criteria and procedures for the operation of Peer Support Agencies (PSAs).

2. (b) The purpose of a PSA is to provide peer supports, peer education and peer programming approved by the state mental health authority that:

   1. (1) Foster wellness in participants by supporting peers in identifying, and achieving an evolving and hopeful vision for their future;
   2. (2) Foster self-advocacy skills, autonomy, and independence;

   3. (3) Foster the ability to enhance a quality of life for participants including:

      1. a. Connection with their families;
      2. b. Connection with communities of their choice; and
      3. c. Personally meaningful occupation;

   4. (4) Emphasize mutuality as demonstrated by:

      1. a. Shared decision making;
      2. b. Strong conflict resolution;
      3. c. Non-medical approaches to support; and
      4. d. Non-static roles, such as, staff who are members and participants, and members and participants who are educators;
   5. (5) Offer alternative views on wellness and the effects of trauma and abuse;
   6. (6) Encourage informed decision-making about all aspects of participant’s lives;
   7. (7) Support peers in understanding how they came to know what they know, by challenging perceived self-limitations, while encouraging the development of beliefs that enhance personal and relational growth and moving towards the life the peer desires; and
   8. (8) Emphasize a holistic approach to health that includes a vision of the “whole” person.

Source. #2038, eff 7-1-82; ss by #2711, eff 5-16-84; ss by #5130, eff 5-1-91, EXPIRED: 5-1-97 New. #8445, eff 10-6-05, EXPIRED: 10-6-13 New. #12193, eff 5-26-17