What is the core purpose of a Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist in an MHSA team?

• A. To provide recovery-oriented, person-centered support using lived experience to empower clients, while maintaining appropriate boundaries and collaborating with the care team.
• B. To diagnose mental health conditions and prescribe treatment.
• C. To replace clinicians and handle all medical decisions.
• D. To manage administrative tasks only.

Answer: (A)

This item tests the role of a Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist as a recovery-oriented, client-centered helper who uses lived experience to empower clients. They share hope and understanding from their own recovery, meet people where they are, and support them in setting and pursuing personal goals. Crucially, they operate with appropriate boundaries and work as part of the care team, collaborating with clinicians rather than making clinical decisions. They do not diagnose or prescribe, and they are not limited to administrative tasks; their purpose is empowerment, advocacy, and facilitating engagement in care within a team-based framework.