Peer Support

The Peer Support Program

Our Peer Support Program offers clients the opportunity to receive personalized mental health support on a deeper level by providing a safe, nonjudgmental space for individuals at any stage of recovery. Peer Support is set apart by its foundation in shared lived experiences, allowing for a level of connection and understanding that clinical services may not offer.

Peer Support services aim to bridge the gap between non-professional peers and clinical providers, both of whom play a vital role in the client's recovery but have a less holistic scope of practice. Our services aim to complement the individual's existing supports by providing a sense of belonging and the comfort of being seen, heard, and understood by someone who's been there too. Peer Support serves to promote recovery and resilience through authentic, person-centered support and strengths-based goal planning.  

All services are delivered by Certified Peer Support Specialists, who are individuals living in mental illness recovery and have received specialized training to help them facilitate recovery-focused conversations, uphold boundaries, and support others with compassion and empathy. Our Specialists recognize the importance of building trust, fostering connection, acknowledging the impact of trauma, and empowering the individual on their unique path to recovery.

Specialists share their own experiences with mental illness to instill hope and provide guidance through goal setting, action planning, connecting with resources, and developing coping skills. Rather than acting as experts, our specialists collaborate with individuals to explore what recovery means to them in the context of their own lives. Specialists strive to meet individuals where they are at to help destigmatize and validate one's mental health journey. 

Peer Support Services

Our Peer Support Program offers a range of services designed to support individuals in their mental health recovery through connection, shared decision-making, and community. All current Successful Living clients are eligible to participate in any of the following services: 

Peer Support Groups

Our groups provide a supportive and nonjudgmental space where individuals can connect with others who are also on their recovery journey. Each session includes psychoeducational activities such as brief presentations, guided discussions, and interactive worksheets. Topics focus on coping strategies, emotional awareness, self-exploration, and skill-building. These groups provide a space to learn, share, and grow together. 

Drop-In Hours

Our drop-in space offers a relaxed, informal setting where peers can connect, participate in light activities, and take time to unwind. Unlike structured daily programming, drop-in hours are flexible and peer-driven—perfect for casual engagement, social connection, or simply taking a break in a supportive environment. No appointment necessary—just stop by!

A young woman with long dark hair, glasses, and a light-colored sweatshirt stands next to a display board titled 'Successful Living' at a library. The display board contains informational posters and flyers on peer support programs. The library has bookshelves in the background and a clock on the wall.
People creating art with watercolor paints on white paper, featuring geometric patterns and triangles, on a donation or charity event table covered with a white tablecloth, with a water pitcher, paper towels, and a paper cup nearby, in an indoor setting.

1-on-1 Meetings with a Specialist

Individual meetings with one of our Specialists empower clients to take an active role in their recovery by identifying strengths, building self-awareness, and fostering resilience. 1-on-1 sessions offer a confidential space to talk, reflect, and receive guidance from a trained professional who also lives with mental illness.

Mobile Peer Support

Worried about transportation or feel unsure about coming in to the office? Let us come to you! Mobile Peer Support offers clients the opportunity to receive 1-on-1 support from the comfort of their own home. Specialists can bring art supplies, games, worksheets, or just be someone to vent to. We aim to reduce barriers to our services and would love to meet with clients in a familiar space that allows for more natural interactions. 

A bulletin board with various posters and flyers, including information about community services, support groups, schedules, and events. A digital clock displays the date and time as April 27, 2023, 10:39 AM.
A group of people sitting in a room participating in a meeting or workshop. Four women and one man are visible, some are writing or drawing on paper. There are tables with cups, paper towels, and other materials. The room has a decorated wall with butterflies, a monitor, and a poster with phrases about control and attitude.
A weekly schedule for Peer Support sessions at 2405 Towncrest Dr, Iowa City, IA, with drop-in hours on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, and one-on-one support sessions scheduled on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday. Contact information is provided for program manager Lauren.