Peer Support Services
Our Certified Peer Specialists are individuals who have personally experienced recovery from mental health challenges, substance use disorders, or both. They bring a unique level of acceptance, understanding, and validation that is often hard to find in other professional relationships. What many in recovery value most about Peer Support is the guidance and support from someone who has truly "been there."
Our Peer Specialists are dedicated to helping others discover and pursue their own recovery paths—free from judgment, expectations, rules, or requirements. They also engage in a range of outreach and engagement activities, meeting people where they are and offering support in a way that resonates with those on their journey.
Peer Support Services
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One-on-One Support
Our peer support connects individuals with certified peer specialists who have experience with a mental health challenge. We provide a safe, non-judgmental space for sharing, support, and working on personal goals together. Contact us to schedule an appointment.
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Support and Activity Groups
We offer a variety of in-person and online activity and support groups for individuals 18 and older. Groups take place Monday through Friday, providing regular opportunities for connection and growth.
Walk-in Peer Counseling Program
Access free, one-on-one support without a waitlist. Our walk-in peer counseling program connects you with a certified peer specialist. We provide a safe, non-judgmental environment for you to share, receive support, and work on your personal goals. Adults 18+ can take advantage of our 30-minute sessions. Peer Specialists are available every Tuesday from 9:30 AM to 2:30 PM at our office—no appointment needed. Up to 12 free sessions can be scheduled.
How Can a Peer Specialist Help?
Peer Specialists offer non judgemental crisis support, emotional support and relapse prevention. A Peer Specialist may help:
Identify and develop personal strengths that can assist you with maintaining recovery goals and managing mental illness.
Build peer relationships and create stronger natural support networks.
Enhance social skills allowing you to live, work and participate more fully in your communities.
Navigate community services and resources
What is a “Certified” Peer Specialist?
All Certified Peer Specialists in New York State need to meet specific requirements: be at least 18 years of age, have earned a high school diploma, complete 13 on-line core courses at the Academy of Peer Services and publicly (self-determined) acknowledge that they have or are currently using mental health services. Certification also requires completing 2,000 hours of supervised peer specialist work.Certification is administered and authorized through the New York Peer Specialist Certification Board (NYPSCB). New York Certified Peer Specialist certification is funded through the New York State Office of Mental Health.