Problem:
As a peer specialist, ignite the spark of hope for Geraldo by creating a narrative about the following:
Geraldo is 23, lives with his mother and goes to a peer-run, day program. He does hold a high school diploma, even though he attended some special education classes. He states that he is getting tired of just coming to program every day and then going home and watching tv all evening. He thinks that he might want to get a job, or go back to school or just do something different. He is getting tired of the "same old things day after day." He adds that his lifelong dream has always been to become a lawyer. His mother says it is not possible. Geraldo states his mother has become much more controlling since his diagnosis 3 years ago and directs his life for him. He asked his doctor about going to work so that he can save money in order to attend a workshop on law at a local technical college. His mother tells him, "absolutely not! I won't allow it." Geraldo states that he's really tired of everybody telling him what to do.
He has shown interest in leading groups, but always has an excuse when asked to do so. He states that he would like to be able to help other people, but is not sure he knows what to do. He heard about the Peer Specialist Training Program and has stated he wants to go. He tells you that he has been saving money out of his SSI check and that he will have enough to pay for it by the time that the next training comes along. He asks you if you think he can do it and would you help him. This is the first time he has ever shown any interest in doing anything other than coming to program; some of the staff think he is not ready to go to an intensive 2-week training.
Two weeks ago, Geraldo was complaining of hearing voices that were disturbing to him and it is very hard for him to concentrate.
Geraldo is very shy. It takes him a long time to formulate a sentence and then he usually follows it with some statement to the effect that he is probably wrong, but it is what he thinks. He is constantly looking for yours and others approval, in spite of his anger toward others telling him what to do.
1. Identify an area of interest, and ask questions that keep Geraldo talking until you know what he wants. Need Assignment Help?