Our mission is to improve the quality of life of all Arkansans by protecting the vulnerable, fostering independence and promoting better health for individuals who face substance use and mental health disorders.
Infrastructure for the Arkansas Peer Recovery Support system was built and continues to grow under the leadership of two teams.
DHS Recovery Team
This team is housed within the Arkansas Department of Human Services, Division of Aging, Adult, and Behavioral Health Services. They direct the Peer Specialist certification and placement process, and they manage state and federal funds that support the peer recovery support system.
Arkansas Peer Advisory Committee (APAC)
APAC’s primary responsibilities are to advise the DHS Recovery Unit on best practices and to offer guidance to strengthen the peer recovery workforce across the state.
These teams do not work in isolation. Our efforts are intertwined with the efforts of thousands of individuals in recovery and our allies. Together, we can create systemic change that benefits individuals and communities affected by substance use disorders.
Arkansas Peer Ethics Review Committee (APERC)
APERC is a specialized group established to evaluate and oversee ethical practices within the Arkansas Peer Recovery Program. Comprised of industry experts and Peer Workers, the committee assesses complaints, ensures adherence to ethical standards, and delegates corrective action applicable to each complaint if applicable.
The primary purpose of the APERC is to maintain and enhance the integrity of services conduct provided by Peer Recovery Peer Workers within the state. By conducting reviews, offering guidance, and fostering a culture of ethical behavior, the committee aims to protect the interests of the individuals receiving services and uphold the reputation of the professions. Additionally, it seeks to provide education and resources to professionals to encourage best practices and prevent ethical violations.
All members of APERC, along with specifics of ethical complaints and the identities of those involved, are to remain anonymous to safeguard their privacy and uphold the fairness of the review process. Copies of the codes of ethics and Ethical Complaint Form can be found here.
Additional Links
- MEDIA – Arkansas Peer Recovery
- Arkansas Alliance of Recovery Centered Organizations (AARCO)
- Faces & Voices of Recovery
- Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)
- Peer Recovery Center of Excellence
- National Association of Peer Supporters
- Arkansas Opioid Recovery Partnership
- National Peer Recovery Alliance
- Other Resources