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The Role of Technology in Peer Support

NCJ Number
309239
Date Published
2020
Length
33 pages
Annotation

This podcast, hosted by the Comprehensive Opioid, Stimulant, and Substance Use Program (COSSUP), discusses the role of technology in peer support.

Abstract

This podcast discusses how stay-at-home and social distancing orders have changed the way in which peer recovery support programs support participants during their most vulnerable moments. Some programs have extended and enhanced their existing technology assisted peer support to continue making personal and timely connections. The podcast profiles three peer recovery support services programs in different organizational settings to learn how their programming has changed in response to COVID-19 and the role technology has played in their programs before entering the pandemic. The podcast features Wendy Jones of Minnesota Recovery Connection; Melissa Pierson at Franklin County, Ohio, Office of Justice Policy and Programs; and Tiffany Lombardo at Butler County Mental Health and Addiction Services Board. Overall, the experience with the unexpected shifts to peer support primarily through technology-assisted peer support has been a positive one. Even after this pandemic, many programs anticipate seeing more virtual supports offered alongside in-person support.