Peer Counseling

Since 2004, the Tennessee Mental Health Consumers' Association's (TMHCA) has offered the Peer Counseling Program to mental health consumers in Tennessee. Peer Counseling is the process by which a trained mental health consumer (Peer Counselor) gives nonjudgmental, nondirective support to a peer who is experiencing a personal crisis. It is short termed and provided by a peer instead of a mental health professional.

Peer counseling works because:

• It provides consumers an essential resource for recovery
• It is easier to identify and communicate with someone who has lived through and survived some of the same events or experiences
• There are no limits except if someone is in danger of hurting themselves or others
• It takes place in a one on one, confidential setting and creates a special bond of trust between two individuals
• People feel a sense of hope and inspiration from peers
• It offers an opportunity for a person to achieve a greater level of independence and self-sufficiency through role modeling and encouragement by peers
• Peer counseling is a powerful agent for change

Findings consistently show that peer counseling reduces hospitalizations, reduces use of professional services, increases knowledge and coping skills, and increases self-esteem and confidence. In addition, there is a greater sense of well being and of being in control with and stronger social networks and supports.

Peer counseling is an enhancement, not a replacement for professional services. It is extremely helpful during weekends or after business hours and other times when mental health services are not readily available.

For more information about Peer Counseling or to register for an upcoming training contact:

Tennessee Mental Health Consumers' Association
480 Craighead Street, Suite 200
Nashville, TN 37204
(888) 539-0393