Problematics of the work of the peer consultants in the field of mental health care

The aim of the presented work is to present problematic aspects of the work of peer consultants in the field of mental health care, i.e., in psychiatric hospitals, social services and leisure clubs. The theoretical part will present the context from which the position grows and comes- the concept of mental illness and stigmatization of mental illness, as well as the project of deinstituonalization of the mental health care system. The theoretical part of the work is then concluded with an introduction to the position of the peer consultant. In the practical part I deal with the problematic aspects themselves by the means of semi-structured interviews. Aspects such as the scope of work of the peer consultant, experience with colleagues and clients, requirements for the position, the topic of the future and the work procedure and finally also the issue of the legislative anchoring of this position. Key words: mental illness, stigmatization, peer support, peer mentor, social works, psychiatric care, Centre for mental health care development, deinstitutionalisatio