Boundaries should be flexible and may vary from individual to individual as to avoid perpetuating the power structure of traditional, formal professional relationships. Peer support workers should also learn to reflect upon and articulate their limits. 

Suggestions for boundaries in peer support

When they become friends while using this services, it could be difficult to resume a more therapeutic relationship within the work context.

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Peer support workers may be viewed more like friends than non-peer case managers or clinical staff, and they are expected to disclose personal information and to share intimate stories from their own lives.

Boundaries in peer support

Repper, J., & Carter, T. (2011). A review of the literature on peer support in mental health services. Journal of mental health, 20(4), 392-411. https://doi.org/10.3109/09638237.2011.583947

A review of the literature on peer support in mental health services

Challenges of boundaries 

Egalitarian relationships provide an opportunity for both peers and peer support workers to grow and create meaningful and reciprocal relationships.

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