Peer support services are delivered by individuals who have common life experiences with the people they are serving. People with mental and/or substance use disorders have a unique capacity to help each other based on a shared affiliation and a deep understanding of this experience. This podcast interviews a Peer Support Specialist and learns their story, how they got into peer support work, and the lessons they've learned.

The Peer Support Podcast is a bi-monthly podcast hosted by WISE (Workforce Integration Support and Education) a program of NorCal MHA. Funded by California's Office of Statewide Health Planning and Development and the Mental Health Services Act.

more info about WISE can be found on our website: www.wiseup.work

Harold Chastain (Health 360/Placer County)

On this podcast, we talk with Jade Reed, the WISE U Program Coordinator. She will talk about WISE U, what it is, the benefits, and how to start your career as a peer support worker in the mental health field.

WISE U Peer Support Training Academy

On this podcast, we are joined by Lou DeVille and Katrina Copple. They will discuss the Wellness Recovery Action plan, their own experiences, and the process for becoming a WRAP Facilitator.

Wellness Recovery Action Plan

On this podcast, we are joined by Cassaundra Cochran from Hope Cooperative. She will be talking about the triage navigator program, successes, challenges, and what it's like to partner with hospitals, homeless services, and law enforcement.

Triage Navigators

On this podcast, we are joined by Maksim Tsymbal and Jensen Bosio. They will share with us what a warmline is, who staffs it, what training people receive, and how you can get involved and/or get support.

Consumer Warmline Operator

On this podcast, we are joined by Amelia Garnica and Pablo Paxtor, two Youth Advocates in Sacramento County. They will be talking with us about the Youth Advocate/Youth Peer Mentor role, supporting youth, and the challenges and successes of being in their role.

Youth Advocacy

On this podcast, we will be joined by Hannah Burgard and Csilla Richmond. They will talk with us about Mental Health First Aid, the course, and how you can get involved.

Mental Health First Aid

Cal Voices provides mental health consumers with culturally-affirming peer support services, assistance in navigating various human service agencies, and advocacy for consumer-oriented public mental health policies. Currently, Cal Voices provides these services in Amador, Placer, and Sacramento counties in California, and offers technical assistance to other mental health agencies statewide. Cal Voices is an affiliate of Mental Health America (MHA), the country’s oldest and largest nonprofit organization addressing all aspects of mental health and mental illness.

If you enjoyed your time with us, be sure to check back for future podcasts!