Center launches peer support program in Orange County

Published: 01-23-2023 6:08 PM

RANDOLPH — Clara Martin Center has announced a new peer support program.

Through the program, developed as part of the Orange County mental health agency’s Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic expansion of services, people with their own lived experience with mental health or substance use disorders provide support to any individual or family who requests it, according to a news release last week.

Under the program, support assistants can provide emotional support and mentoring through symptoms someone may be experiencing; help people take steps to set and achieve their goals; and attend individual and team meetings.

In crisis situations, support assistants can also respond to provide safety, comfort and confidentiality.

Current Clara Martin Center clients can request a referral to be connected with peer support services, Christie Everett, the agency’s director of operations, said in a Monday email. Those not enrolled in Clara Martin’s services but who have been seen by the emergency services team also can get a referral for up to 30 days of support including assistance transferring care to other agencies or support as appropriate once the crisis period subsides.

More information about Clara Martin Center’s mental health and substance use services is online at: claramartin.org.

]]>