Perceptions of older adult mental health peer counselors regarding training and supervision

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the perceptions of older adult mental health peer counselors regarding the nature and adequacy of preservice and in-service training, as well as of on-the-job supervision received. In addition, the study was designed to ascertain the relationship between age, sex, ethnicity, educational level, and length of time as a peer counselor, and older peer counselors' perceptions of training and supervision. Because there were so few nonwhites represented in the population, analysis according to ethnicity was not pursued. A total of 35 older adult peer counseling programs participated in the research. Data were obtained from 356 questionnaires dealing with peer counselors' perceptions of preservice training (helpfulness of content, effectiveness of trainers, and overall adequacy of training); the value of in-service training activities; the importance of various aspects of supervision; and degree of satisfaction with supervision received. Analysis was based on percentages, means, and standard deviations calculated for each question. An open-ended question was included to elicit respondents' feelings about training and supervision. Results indicated that the respondents were quite positive about both training and supervision, with extremely low percentages found in the negative response categories. There appeared to be no relationship between age and sex and perception of training and supervision. A relationship may exist, however, between level of education and degree of satisfaction with supervision, with five educational levels rating their supervisors noticeably higher than did the group with a graduate degree. In addition, there may be a relationship between amount of peer counseling experience and perception of preservice training adequacy, value of in-service training activities, and importance of various aspects of supervision. Generally, the most experienced counselors were more satisfied with their preservice training. Noticeable differences were found regarding in-service training activities, although there was no definable pattern to the responses. It was concluded that the high quality of peer counselor training and supervision has enhanced the participation and contribution of older peer counselors. The great majority of respondents were extremely positive about the peer counseling concept and experience, with enthusiasm expressed for the caring attitude and competence of trainers, opportunities for additional training, and supportiveness of supervisors.