Massachusetts Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The first step of the PCI (Peer-Based Change Interventions) approach is to observe and affirm. This step is essential as it sets the foundation for a meaningful and supportive interaction. By observing the individual's current situation, feelings, and needs, the peer specialist can accurately gauge where the person is in their journey. Affirmation helps in validating the individual’s experiences and emotions, fostering an environment of trust and understanding. It allows the person to feel heard and acknowledged, which is critical in building rapport.

Initiating the process with observation and affirmation establishes a supportive dialogue, enabling the person to feel comfortable sharing their experiences. This foundation plays a crucial role in the subsequent steps of the PCI approach, which focus on deeper connection and intervention. Thus, beginning with observation and affirmation is pivotal in creating an effective and empathetic peer support experience.