Peer Employment Learning Center (PELC) Pilot Project: From Mental Patient to Peer Support Provider

PURPOSE: The Peer Employment Learning Center (PELC) was developed to train individuals under conservatorship in locked settings to work as Peer Support Specialists (PSS) in the same facility where they receive mental health treatment. Simultaneously, leaders and staff are trained in recovery practices to facilitate culture change. METHODS: A convergent mixed methods design was used to evaluate the feasibility of the PELC program to accomplish its goals. Eighteen individuals under involuntary conservatorship enrolled in a PSS training and a supervised internship. Fifteen leaders enrolled in PSS training alone. Staff enrolled in workshops on recovery practices. Quantitative data included pre-post test scores, completion statistics, and pre-post RSA survey scores. Qualitative data included notes from a PSS alumni meeting and leader/staff reflections. RESULTS: 100% of PSS candidates (n = 18) and 100% of leaders (n = 15) completed the 80-hour PSS training with significant pre-post test score improvements (PSS: 36% to 95%, p < 0.001; Leaders: 70% to 96%, p < 0.001). 83% of PSS candidates completed the internship, and 55% were hired part-time at the facility. Staff RSA scores showed significant improvements in "Choice" (p = 0.02) and "Inviting" (p = 0.05) subscales; client RSA scores remained stable. Themes highlighted identity transformation, whiplash, and hope for successful employment for PSS alumni; empowering clients, personal and professional authenticity, and a culture of connection for leaders and staff. Qualitative themes were integrated with quantitative findings for a richer understanding of results. CONCLUSIONS: It is feasible to train and employ individuals under conservatorship as PSS within locked settings. Success requires a dual-track approach: empowering PSS in their new role while systematically educating leaders and staff to foster a recovery-oriented culture.