A qualitative analysis of role-play exercises in the training of mental health peer support workers

Purpose This study aims to explore the content and communication styles of one-on-one peer support sessions by analysing role-play exercises used in the training of mental health peer support workers (PSWs). Design/methodology/approach A qualitative study was conducted using content and thematic analysis of 11 role-play exercises. Transcriptions of sessions involving 12 participants with lived experience of mental health challenges were coded for attributes including participant gender, conversational role, perspective, valence, sentence type and type of interaction; and analysed thematically. Findings Conversations primarily addressed service users’ challenges (30.3%) and the negotiation of peer relationships (24.0%). PSWs predominantly embodied a mutual, non-directive communication style, using self-disclosure (21%) as the most frequent interaction type to foster collaboration. This approach provided a “supportive validation” that complements traditional clinical models by focusing on idiographic recovery processes. Research limitations/implications Findings were based on a convenience sample and role-play simulations, which may not fully reflect real-world interactions. Further research in actual peer support settings is needed to validate these results. Practical implications The study underscores the value of PSW training in fostering recovery-oriented communication, which can enhance mental health service delivery by integrating lived experience into professional practice. Social implications Peer support promotes empowerment and citizenship, addressing service users’ rights and hope, which may challenge biomedical models and support community integration for individuals with mental health challenges. Originality/value This study provides a novel examination of the specific conversational themes and communication styles in PSW role-play training, offering insights into their unique, recovery-focused approach.