Get your "FREE" Narcan/Naloxone at both of our clinics. No cost. No questions asked.
Peer Support Program
Peer Support Specialist
A Peer Support Specialist (PSS) is a person who has lived experience with a mental health, substance use, or trauma challenge and has been formally trained and certified to help others facing similar circumstances.
The core of their role is built on the shared experience—they offer hope, validation, and guidance by serving as a role model for recovery.
Key Aspects of the Role
- Lived Experience The PSS has personal knowledge of what it's like to navigate the challenges, treatment, and recovery process. This creates immediate trust and rapport.
- Non-Clinical Support They do not diagnose, prescribe medication, or provide formal therapy. They work alongside clinical staff but focus on the person's journey, not just their illness.
- Focus on Recovery They help the individual define their own path to wellness, focusing on strengths and goals like housing, employment, education, and community involvement.
- Advocacy & Empowerment A PSS helps the person advocate for their own needs within the healthcare or social services system and encourages them to take charge of their own recovery.
How Peer Support is Different
Unlike other mental health professionals, a Peer Support Specialist uses their personal story as a tool. They are not a professional observing a client; they are a fellow traveler on the road to recovery.
In short, a Peer Support Specialist is living proof that recovery is possible.
They provide non-judgmental support, focusing on the individual's strengths and personal recovery goals (like finding housing or employment), rather than clinical treatment.
Join Us
💖 Support Our Peer Support Specialist Program
Avenues of Mental & Behavioral Health Inc
is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, and your tax-deductible donation ensures this critical, life-changing support remains available to our community, free of charge.