Note: This case study is a composite based on real experiences to protect anonymity.
“Tunde” came to us after three failed attempts at rehab. He was skeptical, guarded, and convinced that no one understood his struggle with alcohol use disorder. This is where the power of the Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS)—our “Beacon”—came into play.
Instead of starting with a clinical assessment, his Peer Specialist shared a snippet of their own recovery journey. For the first time, Tunde saw a reflection of himself in someone who was thriving. The intervention wasn’t about diagnosing; it was about connecting.
Over six months, the Peer Specialist worked with Tunde on “recovery capital”—building a network of non-drinking friends and finding a job that gave him purpose. While the clinical team managed his therapy, the Peer Specialist managed his hope. Today, Tunde is 18 months sober. This case illustrates that sometimes, the most clinical tool we have is shared humanity.
