Peer Navigators

A peer has lived experience of substance misuse, mental and or behavioral health, and Recovery.

I became engaged in this work mainly as a family member of persons in Recovery. In 2012, I was first introduced to Peer Recovery Advocate Training which began as a volunteer initiative offered by a local recovery community organization. After completion, I utilized my personal lived experience and the training to support individuals and families in and seeking Recovery. Since that time, the Peer Recovery movement has evolved an recognized as a workforce to include credentialing for Maryland Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS). Many peers, including myself, are engaged in advocacy or providing direct service, resources, and information along with connective linkages to vital services for substance use; trauma; mental and behavioral health services; rentry; housing; and outreach to individuals and families.

Peers in the Library aid in the opportunity to engage individuals by meeting the person where they are, making a connection, providing a person-centered engagement, supporting choices, removing barriers, and promoting access and connection to a support or service.

Peers in the library is a climate-controlled welcoming space with access to well-needed resources such as books, computers, the internet, and safe and friendly faces. Introducing Peer in the library reduces the stigma and provides an inclusive trauma-informed space for individuals and or family members to engage in conversation, be supported, and connect to support and resources.

Education. Recovery is a process: educate yourself and loved ones about Recovery. Knowing where the available resources are, getting connected, engaging in the process, and being supported is the key to engaging, maintaining, and sustaining recovery. Recovery is possible.