WHAT IS PEER SUPPORT GROUP?
Peer support groups are free, confidential and safe groups open to any individual who identifies as living with a mental illness or mental health concern. Groups follow a flexible structure and include an educational activity. Individuals join a caring group of peers that offer support through their learned wisdom, and participants can share as much or as little personal information as they wish. (Ages 18+)
**A portion of costs for training our Peer Support Group facilitators has been provided by GFWC Rhinelander Woman's Club. We are grateful for their generosity in our community.
"I felt I received constructive, practical and helpful information from group members."
"The support group facilitators and attendees were respectful of other people's experiences and were non-judgmental when there were different ways of handling things."
WHO LEADS PEER SUPPORT GROUPS?
A Peer Support Group facilitator is a trained NAMI leader. They play an important role in ensuring all participants feel welcomed and supported. Facilitators are qualified to lead support groups because they live with a mental health condition, so they're able to empathize with and encourage those who are just beginning or continuing their journey of recovery. A Peer Support Group facilitator ensures the group shares responsibility for maintaining guidelines and participants' boundaries while clarifying goals and reinforcing communication skills to encourage group participation.
Peer Support Group facilitators are volunteers who become certified by attending and graduating from a 2-day training. The training is designed for facilitators to learn and practice specific skills that will guarantee a meaningful support group experience for all participants.
CONTACT
If you are interested in learning more about Peer Support Groups, please fill out the contact form below.