PEER Support at ICMHA
What is Peer Support?
Peer Support offers a wide range of programs that promote hope, connection, and recovery. From art classes and CBT skills groups to yoga, emotional wellness, and men’s & women’s groups, there’s something for everyone. Explore our full Activities Calendar below (scroll to section link). At its heart, peer support brings together people with shared lived experience, creating meaningful connections and reinforcing that recovery is possible.
About Our Peer Support Groups
Our peer-led groups at Island Community Mental Health are open to adults (19+) who identify as having lived experience of mental health challenges. They provide safe, welcoming spaces where participants can connect with others, take part in meaningful activities, and build skills that support wellbeing and recovery. This work is grounded in the belief that each person has the capacity to find their own path toward improved health and wellbeing. Peer support workers walk alongside participants with encouragement, understanding, and hope.
The philosophy of peer support is that each individual has an innate desire to find a path towards recovery, improved health and wellbeing, and has within themselves the knowledge of what will work for them.
For information on the guidelines for the practice and training of peer support please visit:
Help Peer Support Thrive!
We’ve recently lost a significant source of funding and are actively seeking donations to help keep these programs running. Help make a difference in our community today!
The PEER support program is made possible with support from:
PEER GROUPS
Open Art Group:
The Peer Supported Open Art Group is an inclusive and creative environment where like-minded
people can create art and socialize in a safe space. All art supplies are provided. Any skill level is
welcome to attend this open art group supported by a trained artist and peer facilitators with lived
experience.
Cooking Group:
The Peer Supported Cooking Group is a place where peers can practice cooking skills as well as
enjoy a meal with each other promoting connection and togetherness. This weekly group also sends
a meal home with each participant. No special skills or experience needed, just a love of food.
Goal Setting:
Goal Setting is a supportive peer lead working group, designed to set and develop goals. Together,
the goal planning group set intentions and actively move toward their completion during this weekly
online supportive get together.
Talk and Step:
Join us for a leisurely walk and talk around the Vic West Area, with a stop at a local café. This group will aim to provide exercise and social connection, with a rotating cast of facilitators. The level of activity will be light.
Men’s Group:
This 12 week conversational style group offers a safe environment for men to discuss a variety of topics related to men’s mental health and wellbeing. Join us to find understanding, encouragement, and strength in a community of your peers! Co-facilitated by Grow and PEER Support, this group is open to anyone who self-identifies as a man. This is a registration based group.
Craft Group:
Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a curious beginner, our craft group offers a welcoming space for creating, learning new techniques, and connecting with one another. Each week we will work on a new, often seasonal, craft for you to take home. All materials provided, so just bring your enthusiasm!
Program Descriptions
