Peer Support 101

 

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Over the last 35 years peer support in mental health has evolved out of
a human rights perspective. Even in the late 1970's, when most of the
mental health community was talking about life long illness and
containment in the community, people working in peer support were
talking about rights, consciousness raising, alternatives, and choice.
People like Sally Zinman and Howie the Harp were helping people come
together to support one another in becoming well and building a life in
community. While all this was developing, so were the ideas about what
makes peer support different than other kinds of help. Not better or
worse, but a whole different way of thinking about life and supportive
relationships. (Shery Mead, 2006)

Peer Support 101 is an opportunity to take a peek at Intentional Peer
Support, learn about the tasks of peer support and hear about peer
support in Maine. Peer Support 101 is a 3-hour class offered to anyone
interested in learning more about peer support. It is also a requirement
for participation in the Peer Support Specialists Certification.

Who should take Peer Support 101?

*	Consumers - Provides an opportunity to discover the broad range
of peer support. As well as qualify for participation in the Peer
Support Specialists Certification.
*	Providers - Peer Support may be something offered in your
agency, or your community, do you know what its all about? Would you
like to know the possibilities?
*	Community and Family Members - Find out about options for people
you care about.

Jean A. Henderson

Student Services Coordinator

UMPI/University College @ Houlton

18 Military Street

Houlton, ME 04730

207-521-3100 ext 3103