Establishing an expert mental health consumer research group: Perspectives of nonconsumer researchers

Purpose To explore the views and opinions of nonconsumer researchers to the concept of an Expert Consumer Researcher Group. Design and Methods Qualitative exploratory involving individual interviews with nonconsumer mental health researchers experienced in working collaboratively with consumer researchers. Data were analyzed thematically. Findings Participants viewed the concept positively, albeit with caution. Perceived advantages included: greater visibility and enhanced access; collegiality; sharing and creating expertise; broader acceptance; making it mandatory; and structure and location. Participants were concerned about potential tokenism and implementation barriers. Practice Implications Consumer involvement enhances the quality and relevance of research, potentially impacting clinical practice.