What is NAMI Peer-to-Peer?
NAMI Peer-to-Peer is a free, eight-session educational program for adults with mental health conditions who are looking to better understand themselves and their recovery.
Taught by trained leaders with lived experience, this program includes activities, discussions, and informative videos. However, as with all NAMI programs, it does not include recommendations for treatment approaches.
Trained teachers/facilitators, called leaders, lead the course. In keeping with fidelity to the NAMI peer education model, leaders are also persons living with SMI, and who demonstrate the skills and confidence necessary to teach and share lessons from their own recovery journey. To create a sense of ownership, self-worth, and professionalism, NAMI Indiana distributes a stipend to the leaders for facilitating the course when funding is available. The role then adds teaching experiences and skills to leaders’ professional development paths. Feedback indicates that leaders also experience increased levels of confidence to enter or return to jobs, education, volunteerism, and other community settings, facilitating recovery in yet another important way.
What You'll Gain
NAMI Peer-to-Peer is a safe, confidential space. The course provides an opportunity for mutual support and growth. Experience compassion and understanding from people who relate to your experiences. This is a place to learn more about recovery in an accepting environment.
NAMI Peer-to-Peer helps you:
Set a vision and goals for the future
Partner with healthcare providers
Develop confidence in making decisions
Practice relaxation and stress reduction tools
Share your story
Strengthen relationships
Enhance communication skills
Learn about mental health treatment options
NAMI affiliates provide the course and all course materials to participants at no cost.