What type of change are peer counselors primarily focused on achieving?

Peer counselors are primarily focused on achieving systemic change in mental health care because their role is not only to support individual clients but also to influence and improve the broader mental health system. This includes advocating for policies that enhance accessibility to care, promoting recovery-oriented practices, and challenging stigma associated with mental illness.

Systemic change involves working within the frameworks of organizations and communities to create environments that are supportive of mental health and recovery. By addressing systemic issues, peer counselors help ensure that individuals receive the care they need in a way that promotes overall well-being and fosters a collaborative relationship between clients and the mental health system.

This focus on systemic change reflects the principles of peer support, which emphasize empowerment, community engagement, and the importance of lived experiences in shaping mental health policies and practices.