How can you avoid becoming a client's crutch in peer support?

1 Set clear expectations

At the beginning of your peer support relationship, you should discuss with your client what you can and cannot offer, how often and how long you will meet, and what are the roles and responsibilities of each party. You should also explain the purpose and principles of peer support, such as mutual respect, shared decision-making, and recovery-oriented goals. By setting clear expectations, you can avoid misunderstandings, confusion, or unrealistic demands from your client.

2 Encourage self-help

One of the main objectives of peer support is to help your client develop their own self-help skills and resources. You can do this by asking open-ended questions, sharing your own recovery strategies, and providing information and referrals to other services or groups. You can also help your client identify their strengths, interests, and values, and support them to pursue their passions and hobbies. By encouraging self-help, you can foster your client's confidence, resilience, and autonomy.

3 Monitor your own feelings

Sometimes, you may feel emotionally attached to your client, or feel responsible for their well-being. This is natural, as you share a bond of trust and empathy with them. However, you should also be aware of your own feelings and boundaries, and avoid becoming too involved or dependent on your client. You should check in with yourself regularly, and seek supervision or peer support if you feel overwhelmed, stressed, or burnt out. You should also practice self-care and balance your work and personal life.

4 Respect your client's choices

As a peer supporter, you are not there to fix your client's problems, or to tell them what to do. You are there to support your client's choices, even if they are different from yours, or if they make mistakes. You should respect your client's autonomy, dignity, and rights, and avoid being judgmental, paternalistic, or coercive. You should also acknowledge your client's progress and achievements, and celebrate their successes.

5 Review and revise your goals

Another way to avoid becoming a crutch for your client is to review and revise your goals regularly. You should ask your client for feedback on how they feel about the peer support, what is working and what is not, and what they want to change or improve. You should also evaluate your own performance and satisfaction, and identify your strengths and areas for improvement. By reviewing and revising your goals, you can ensure that your peer support is effective, relevant, and meaningful.

6 Plan for ending or transitioning

Finally, you should plan for ending or transitioning your peer support relationship, when your client has achieved their goals, or when they no longer need or want your support. You should discuss this with your client in advance, and prepare them for the change. You should also provide them with options and resources for ongoing support, such as other peer supporters, groups, or services. You should also celebrate your client's journey, and express your gratitude and appreciation for the peer support experience.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?