Better Outcomes: Combination Peer Support Intervention (PSI) and Psychological Therapy (PT) in Online Digital Space
Tracks
Diamond Ballroom I: In-Person & Virtual via OnAIR
Thursday, June 5, 2025 |
1:40 PM - 2:00 PM |
Overview
William Campos, Independent Community Living Australia
Presenter
Mr William Campos
Ceo
Independent Community Living Australia
Better Outcomes: Combination Peer Support Intervention (PSI) and Psychological Therapy (PT) in Online Digital Space
Abstract
The field of mental health interventions has witnessed a paradigm shift with the integration of Combination Peer Support Intervention (PSI) and Psychological Therapy (PT) within online digital spaces. This innovative approach seeks to enhance mental health outcomes by combining the strengths of peer support and professional psychological therapy in a digital context.
This paper explores the rationale, efficacy, and potential benefits of this integrated model.
Peer support has emerged as a viable and complementary workforce in mental health interventions, harnessing the unique ability of individuals with lived experiences to connect with and support others facing similar challenges. In tandem, psychological therapy, delivered by trained professionals, offers evidence-based interventions for a range of mental health conditions. The integration of these two modalities within online digital spaces capitalizes on the accessibility and reach of virtual platforms, providing a flexible and inclusive environment for individuals seeking mental health support.
The combination of PSI and PT in digital spaces is grounded in the idea that the synergy between shared experiences and professional expertise can yield better outcomes. Peer support, often facilitated through forums, chat groups, and online communities, creates a sense of belonging and understanding among participants. This sense of community fosters a non-judgmental space where individuals feel comfortable sharing their experiences, concerns, and triumphs. The addition of psychological therapy ensures that evidence-based practices are woven into the support framework, offering targeted interventions to address specific mental health challenges.
Research suggests that this combination in digital spaces yields promising results. Recent studies have shown that individuals engaging in such integrated interventions experience a reduction in symptoms, increased self-efficacy, and a greater sense of empowerment in managing their mental health. This collaborative model also addresses the multifaceted nature of mental health, recognizing that both lived experiences and professional insights contribute significantly to the recovery journey.
Three Key Learnings:
1. The primary key message of this abstract is to convey the transformative potential of integrating Combination Peer Support Intervention (PSI) and Psychological Therapy (PT) in online digital spaces for mental health care.
2. To understand that this innovative model, blending the strengths of peer support and professional therapy, holds promise in enhancing mental health outcomes.
3. To advocate for further resear4ch and innovation to combining Lived experience services as an innovative approach among professionals, researchers, and policymakers in the mental health field.
This paper explores the rationale, efficacy, and potential benefits of this integrated model.
Peer support has emerged as a viable and complementary workforce in mental health interventions, harnessing the unique ability of individuals with lived experiences to connect with and support others facing similar challenges. In tandem, psychological therapy, delivered by trained professionals, offers evidence-based interventions for a range of mental health conditions. The integration of these two modalities within online digital spaces capitalizes on the accessibility and reach of virtual platforms, providing a flexible and inclusive environment for individuals seeking mental health support.
The combination of PSI and PT in digital spaces is grounded in the idea that the synergy between shared experiences and professional expertise can yield better outcomes. Peer support, often facilitated through forums, chat groups, and online communities, creates a sense of belonging and understanding among participants. This sense of community fosters a non-judgmental space where individuals feel comfortable sharing their experiences, concerns, and triumphs. The addition of psychological therapy ensures that evidence-based practices are woven into the support framework, offering targeted interventions to address specific mental health challenges.
Research suggests that this combination in digital spaces yields promising results. Recent studies have shown that individuals engaging in such integrated interventions experience a reduction in symptoms, increased self-efficacy, and a greater sense of empowerment in managing their mental health. This collaborative model also addresses the multifaceted nature of mental health, recognizing that both lived experiences and professional insights contribute significantly to the recovery journey.
Three Key Learnings:
1. The primary key message of this abstract is to convey the transformative potential of integrating Combination Peer Support Intervention (PSI) and Psychological Therapy (PT) in online digital spaces for mental health care.
2. To understand that this innovative model, blending the strengths of peer support and professional therapy, holds promise in enhancing mental health outcomes.
3. To advocate for further resear4ch and innovation to combining Lived experience services as an innovative approach among professionals, researchers, and policymakers in the mental health field.
Biography
I am a clinical Psychologist, social researcher and currently the chief executive officer of ICLA - Independent Community Living Australia a non-profit organization that provides mental health, disability and homelessness support and services across NSW and digitally across Australia. I have over 15 years of experience in the health, mental health and digital health sectors including leadership roles at NSW Health, western Sydney PHN, and Aged Care. I am a current non-executive director of MHCC - Mental Health Coordinating Council and an advisor to Australian Digital Health Agency as well as NSW Mental Health Commission.