MHSA Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist Practice Exam

These questions are part of the practice quiz. Start practicing

• Which statement NOT listed as an essential ongoing training topic for PSSs?
• Which practice aligns with the core competency about sharing information and resources with the consumer?
• What term describes the recognition of certified Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialists by public county behavioral health plans?
• In which settings might an MHSA PSS operate, and how might roles vary?
• Which action helps prevent power struggles during a tense interaction?
• Which term describes the process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live a self-directed life and strive to reach their full potential?
• Which is a commonly used de-escalation technique by PSSs?
• What strategies ensure language access in peer services?
• What strategy would a Peer Support Specialist use to help a consumer get involved in the community?
• Which term denotes the capacity to successfully meet life's challenges, nurtured to have a sense of self-determination, mastery, and hope?
• A consumer received notice Medi-Cal may be cancelled due to non-response. What action can the Peer Support Specialist take to support the consumer?
• Which action demonstrates respect for a client’s autonomy when planning supports?
• Which factor most guides disclosure in safety-related situations?
• What is the PSS's role in medication management?
• Which statement best describes a valid certificate in the context of professional credentials?
• A consumer has chosen to put off mental health care until they are ready to give up their intravenous substance use. How can the Peer Support Specialist respond in a way that promotes harm reduction?
• Which barrier is commonly faced when accessing Medi-Cal, and how can a PSS assist?
• What identifying information should be included in client records to ensure accurate service delivery?
• Which statement describes goals of harm reduction in peer support?
• Which statement about progress notes is true?
• When navigating multiple service providers, which approach best supports a consumer's practical management of tasks?
• Which topics are essential for ongoing training of a PSS?
• A consumer has been joking around during group sessions and not taking group seriously. How should the Peer Support Specialist respond?
• A consumer would like to support a neighborhood rally but has anxiety about attending. They want the Peer Support Specialist to accompany them. What action would the Peer Support Specialist take?
• Which statement best describes the role of a Peer Support Specialist in Medi-Cal service delivery?
• Which indicators would prompt a safety plan and higher-level intervention?
• Which item is commonly documented in a progress note?
• Why is cultural humility essential in MHSA peer work?
• A consumer has substance use disorder and is ready to become sober. What action would the Peer Support Specialist take to encourage the consumer?
• If a nutrition concern arises that the Peer Support Specialist cannot address directly, what is an appropriate course of action?
• Which term best describes individuals acting as allies to support patients and caregivers in navigating the healthcare system?
• Why is it important to avoid dependency when sharing recovery experiences?
• Which term describes the process by which an individual employed as a Peer on January 1, 2022, or prior to that date, is eligible to seek certification as a Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist so long as they meet the eligibility criteria and successfully pass the state-approved exam (ended 6/30/2023)?
• Which term describes the ability to communicate, convey, negotiate or assert one's own interests, desires, needs and rights; it involves making informed decisions and taking responsibility for those decisions?
• How should a Peer Support Specialist handle personal experiences in relation to the consumer?
• Which term describes the ongoing journey toward health and a self-directed life, acknowledging diverse cultural pathways?
• Which statement accurately reflects the concept of multiple pathways to recovery?
• Which practices protect client privacy in notes and records?
• Which practice best demonstrates nonjudgmental engagement?
• What is the best way to support a consumer who wants to share their recovery story publicly, with their consent?
• Which practice best describes the Peer Support Specialist's approach to community involvement?
• What approach best supports consumer autonomy in housing decisions?
• Which action demonstrates compliance with HIPAA confidentiality regarding handwritten notes?
• What is a primary purpose of peer support in behavioral health services?
• What is an appropriate response to an ethical dilemma involving disclosure of sensitive information?
• What should a PSS do if a client is at risk of harming self or others?
• Which term describes the formal set of professional guidelines governing a Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist's conduct?
• A consumer tells you they have situational stress that is not a result of their diagnosis. What action would the Peer Support Specialist take in supporting the consumer?
• What action is a primary duty of a Peer Support Specialist in assisting a consumer in the community?
• What is a key reason for a Peer Support Specialist to share their own lived experience with a consumer?
• Which ethical principles guide non-discrimination in service delivery?
• What recovery-oriented practices should a PSS emphasize in planning with a client?
• Which term describes culturally appropriate services that promote engagement, socialization, recovery, self-sufficiency, self-advocacy, development of natural supports and identification of strengths, including prevention services, support, coaching, facilitation or education that is individualized and is conducted by a certified Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist?
• Which term refers to the personal connections to an individual's community that enhances the quality of their life?
• If a consumer suggests a gift as a sign of appreciation, which alternative is often suggested?
• How should a Peer Support Specialist handle sharing personal experiences to avoid crossing professional boundaries?
• During a behavioral health crisis, what should the Peer Support Specialist do to assist the consumer?
• Which term describes the non-English language threshold recognized for Medi-Cal programs?
• Which term refers to California's Medicaid health care program that includes a variety of medical services for children and adults with a qualifying income or medical condition?
• Which of the following is NOT identified as a beneficial active listening technique for a Peer Support Specialist?
• Which response is least appropriate during an acute behavioral health crisis?
• Which option demonstrates community inclusion by promoting self-advocacy within the care team?
• What describes trauma-informed screening best?
• Which term describes the minimum knowledge base necessary to perform role or job activities as a Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist in California?
• Which strategies help address stigma and promote racial equity?
• If a consumer's diet concerns mental health and is outside the Peer Support Specialist's scope, what is an appropriate next step?
• Which term describes the education a professional receives to further develop their professional knowledge around best practices, updated laws and/or specialized training?
• What is a key consideration when a Peer Support Specialist shares personal experiences with a consumer?
• What is the purpose of a Peer Support Specialist self-disclosing their lived experience in an inpatient psychiatric unit?
• The recertification interval for Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist certification occurs in which of the following?
• Which approach best describes how a PSS can advocate for a client without taking over decisions?
• What is a core principle of peer support when promoting autonomy and self-determination?
• Which term describes the process for an applicant to become certified as a Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist for the first time?
• Which entity is approved by the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) to certify Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialists and approve training providers?
• Which term describes the initial process for someone to become certified as a Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist?
• Which element is NOT typically included in a safety plan for a client at risk?
• A consumer tells a Peer Support Specialist they are struggling to create a plan for managing future behavioral health crises. What action would the Peer Support Specialist take to support the consumer?
• What is the recommended PSS approach to clients with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders?
• Which statement best describes the purpose of the wellness model described?
• Which term describes a person who is receiving mental health and/or substance use disorder services in a public county behavioral health delivery system?
• What action demonstrates informed consent in service planning?
• Which term describes an individual who is 18 years of age or older?
• A consumer is seeking assistance in combating stigma through self-advocacy. What action would the Peer Support Specialist take?
• In a meeting with a consumer's care team about the consumer's progress toward goals, what action would best support the consumer?
• In crisis situations, what is the role of the Peer Support Specialist?
• Which term covers a Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist's non-therapeutic relationship with a recipient of care, including activities not allowed within the Code of Ethics?
• A consumer is frustrated because several different service providers are not communicating well when it comes to their care. How can the Peer Support Specialist support this consumer?
• Which action supports professional boundaries and privacy in digital communication?
• What is a key first step in de-escalating a crisis with a client?
• What term describes an individual who receives peer services through a Medi-Cal program?
• Which of the following lists are typical confidentiality exceptions in PSS practice?
• What does person-centered planning entail for service goals?
• Which action best aligns with ethical practice when developing a safety plan?
• Who should contribute to the safety plan to ensure it is meaningful and tailored to the individual?
• What are two key components of a person-centered pre-crisis plan?
• What is the relationship between recovery-oriented practice and boundaries in peer work?
• Which term indicates that an individual has met the certification standards for Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist?
• In addressing harm reduction with a consumer who uses substances, which action aligns with harm reduction?
• When a consumer offers a gift to a Peer Support Specialist to show appreciation, what is the recommended response?
• Why is plain language important in peer support discussions?
• Which term describes maintaining awareness of the impact traumatic experiences may have on an individual and the influence this trauma may have on the choices they make in their life?
• If a consumer discloses a past trauma during intake, what should the Peer Support Specialist do first?
• How do HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2 interact in the context of a Peer Support Specialist?
• What is the recommended practice regarding sharing crisis planning information with supports?
• Which statement about ROI is true?
• How is client progress typically reviewed in peer support services?
• A consumer discharged from treatment is living in a sober living home and reports roommates using drugs. What action should the Peer Support Specialist take to assist?
• Which indicators would prompt a safety plan and higher-level intervention?
• Which approach aligns with empowering a consumer to speak up for themselves in systems and services?
• Which approach demonstrates respect for the consumer and avoids coercion in discussions about quitting?
• How should a client's right to refuse services be handled?
• A consumer with a history of depression reports early depressive symptoms. What action would the Peer Support Specialist take to support the consumer?
• What is the main purpose of resource linkage in peer support?
• What is the goal of the harm reduction model for substance use challenges?
• Which term describes a non-English language identified by the California Department of Health Care Services as a threshold language under Medi-Cal programs?
• What is the primary goal when assisting a consumer in a behavioral health crisis?
• A Peer Support Specialist is working with a consumer with serious mental illness who has been in inpatient treatment for several months. Prior to a treatment team meeting, the consumer says, 'I don't know why I'm even going. They are just going to keep me here anyway.' Which action would the Peer Support Specialist take to encourage self-advocacy?
• Which practice should be avoided when helping a consumer create a safety plan?
• How can a PSS demonstrate cultural competence in practice?
• Which practice reflects integrity in interactions with consumers?
• What is a 'warm handoff' and why is it important?
• Which action would be inappropriate for a PSS when coordinating care?
• Why is self-care essential for peer specialists?
• Which term describes the organization selected by California counties, with a plan approved by the Department of Health Care Services, to certify Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialists?
• What is harm reduction in the context of peer support practice?
• Which approach best supports confidentiality while maintaining safety when planning crises?
• A new Peer Support Specialist wants to better understand how peer coaching can support a consumer's wellness and recovery. They are curious about the various approaches used to empower consumers to make decisions about their own lives. What is the importance of these approaches?
• A consumer expressed feeling overwhelmed with the requirements of their probation officer and service providers. How can a Peer Support Specialist assist the consumer with navigating the expectations?
• Which statement correctly describes the renewal requirement for Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist certification?
• Which option describes a crisis safety plan element?
• Which term represents the foundational knowledge set required to perform Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist duties?
• Which term describes an individual who is 18 years of age or older, who has self-identified as having lived experience with the process of recovery from mental illness, substance use disorder, or both, either as a consumer of these services or as a parent or family member of the consumer, and who has been granted certification under a county Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist certification program?
• When is it appropriate to obtain a Release of Information (ROI) from a client?
• Which statement best reflects the approach to safety planning in peer support?
• Which signs should a PSS monitor as potential adverse medication effects?
• The term 'Peer' is used interchangeably with which designation in this program?
• Which approach promotes culturally respectful supports?
• A consumer reports feeling lonely and asks the Peer Support Specialist for connections in the community. How would the Peer Support Specialist assist the consumer?
• How should a PSS handle dual relationships to avoid conflicts of interest?
• Which statement best describes how a safety plan should be developed?
• Which statement best describes a safe plan?
• Why is timely documentation emphasized in peer support practice?
• The term 'Peer' is used interchangeably with which credential?
• Which situations require mandated reporting by a Peer Support Specialist in California?
• Which term describes the capacity to cope with life's challenges, fostering self-determination and hope?
• What are the core principles of trauma-informed care that a PSS should apply?
• Which approach is appropriate when supporting a consumer who is anxious about attending a public event?
• Which term indicates a focus on how trauma influences a person's decisions and life choices?
• Which statement best captures the difference between wellness planning and clinical treatment planning?
• Which term best describes the personal connections to an individual's community that enhance their quality of life and support recovery?
• Wellness is described as the conscious and deliberate process of creating and adapting patterns of behavior that improve health across eight dimensions. Which of the following is one of those dimensions?
• Should a PSS screen for trauma, and how should questions be asked?
• Why is ongoing training in cultural competence important for PSS practice?
• In Medi-Cal Peer Support practice, which term refers to providing patients and caregivers with the necessary support and education to empower them to make informed healthcare decisions?
• How should a PSS handle digital communication with clients?
• Which term is used to describe California's Medicaid health care program?
• How should a Peer Support Specialist engage with the care team while respecting confidentiality?
• A consumer thinks their diet may have a negative impact on their mental health. What action can the Peer Support Specialist take to help?
• Which term denotes the process of aligning engagement with the cultural beliefs and practices of the individual served?
• Which term describes the recognition that an individual has received certification for peer support from another state and meets the qualifications specified under Medi-Cal Peer Support certification policies?
• What element differentiates a crisis safety plan from a general wellness plan?
• What characterizes the overall approach a Peer Support Specialist should use in crisis or safety planning?
• Which statement aligns with Medi-Cal Code of Ethics regarding sharing lived experience?
• Which term refers to a set of guidelines a certified Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist adheres to around their roles and responsibilities and levels of responsibility in which they function professionally?
• Which statement best reflects ethical practice for a Peer Support Specialist when supporting safety planning?
• In crisis planning, what is the purpose of a wellness toolbox?
• Which action aligns with harm reduction in peer support?
• Which action best demonstrates resource linkage in supporting a consumer to engage with community resources?
• A consumer explains that it is taboo for someone to share their struggles with family members in their culture. How would the Peer Support Specialist support the consumer?
• What information is protected by confidentiality in peer support, and when can it be legally shared?
• Which option describes how crisis resources are accessed for a consumer during a crisis?
• How can a PSS promote client empowerment without overstepping?
• When developing a safety plan, what is the best approach for a Peer Support Specialist to support the consumer?
• A consumer wants to use their experience with managing their mental illness to help others. How can the Peer Support Specialist help the consumer to accomplish this goal?
• If handwritten notes from a check-in cannot be entered into the electronic file immediately, how should the Peer Support Specialist handle them?
• What distinguishes wellness planning from clinical treatment planning?
• How does a PSS participate in care coordination without giving medical advice?
• What is the core purpose of a Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist in an MHSA team?
• The consumer discloses a past trauma during intake and asks for mental health assistance. How should the Peer Support Specialist respond?
• Which term describes the ongoing education professionals pursue to stay current on best practices and laws in the field?
• A consumer wants to share their recovery journey but recognizes self-stigma is holding them back. How would the Peer Support Specialist support the consumer?
• Why is timely documentation of client progress important in peer support services?
• How do you balance confidentiality with safety concerns?
• What is the purpose of supervision for a Peer Support Specialist?
• Which term refers to an individual's first-hand experience with a mental health and/or substance use challenges, including the process of recovery and engagement of resiliency within that experience?
• What is an appropriate first step when a consumer reports discrimination in employment due to disability?
• A consumer says they were not hired at a job because of their disability. What actions should the Peer Support Specialist take?
• Progress notes serve to protect privacy while enabling continuity of care.
• In the context of peer support, what is the role of lived experience?
• A peer asks their Peer Support Specialist whether a particular treatment program worked for the specialist. Which response is most appropriate?
• Which term indicates CalMHSA, the organization selected by California counties, with a plan approved by the Department of Health Care Services, to certify Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialists and approve training providers?
• How should a PSS involve family or support persons in crisis planning?
• Which term refers to culturally aligned engagement in services by a Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist?
• Which term describes an organization that has received approval from the certifying entity to provide training for the Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist certification program?
• Which term describes services that are individualized and conducted by a certified Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist, including prevention services, support, coaching, facilitation or education?