Peer Support Program
The Peer Support Program is a service contracted by Communitas Supportive Care Society through the Fraser Health Authority to support clients of mental health along the process of recovery. The Communitas Supportive Care Society Peer Support Program provides structured one on one support to mental health consumers within the communities of Mission, Abbotsford, Chilliwack and Hope.

Sometimes we learn best from someone who has walked ahead of us on the same path in life that we are embarking upon. That is the philosophy of the Peer Support movement. Mental health consumers are able to support and learn from each other. Someone who is experiencing mental illness first-hand has learned valuable coping skills- skills that in turn they can share with a peer. Having a mental illness gives them empathy in a capacity unique from that of other professionals. Together, the peers are able to provide each other with hope and inspiration on the journey towards healing and recovery.

The Program
Each consumer accepted into the course is at a place of acceptance and understanding about their own illness. They have learned much on their own journey, and are at a place where they are able and willing to share their insights with someone else. Some of the topics covered in the training include basic counselling techniques, listening and attending skills, showing empathy, probing, guidelines for self-disclosure and goal setting for clients.