When a consumer offers a gift to a Peer Support Specialist to show appreciation, what is the recommended response?

• A. Accept the consumer's present if the item costs less than $25.
• B. Ask the consumer to donate to a charity instead.
• C. Thank the consumer for the thoughtfulness before declining the gift.
• D. Tell the consumer the gift is unnecessary because you are just doing your job.

Answer: (A)

Gifts from a consumer require balancing appreciation with professional boundaries. A small, nominal gift can be accepted and acknowledged without compromising objectivity or care. Accepting the gift if it costs less than a modest threshold (for example, under $25) and thanking the consumer for the thoughtfulness demonstrates respect and builds rapport, while keeping boundaries clear.

If a gift is more costly or could create a sense of obligation, it should be declined or redirected (for instance, suggesting a donation to a charity) and discussed with a supervisor to determine the appropriate handling.

Declining a small gift or dismissing the gesture as unnecessary can harm the therapeutic relationship and miss an opportunity to acknowledge the consumer’s appreciation, while asking the consumer to donate or insisting you’re only doing your job can feel impersonal or defensive.