Living a fulfilling life with mental health challenges is possible. Recovery from substance use and addictive behaviors is possible. Change is possible. But it can look different for each person.

Peer-Delivered Services at Cascadia Health are offered by individuals who have lived experience with mental health, substance use, and/or other addiction challenges. Each Peer Provider (PSS, PWS, or CRM) goes through a state-approved certification training program that teaches skills to provide advocacy and support for individuals with similar lived experiences.

Peer support is different from clinical support. With peer support, we come together to change unhelpful patterns, get out of “stuck” places, and to share our vision for our lives. We build relationships with one another that are respectful, responsible, and even life-changing. Because Peer Specialists have “been there” and learned how to overcome obstacles in their own journey, peer support often feels safe and accepting. By sharing experiences and building trust, we help each other move past doubts, old patterns, and ways of thinking.

Peer support in action looks like meeting one-on-one, in groups, out in the community, in health centers, in shelters, in homes, and more.

What can you do with peer support by your side?

  • Meet to talk about your goals and work on the plans you have for your life
  • Attend a social club, meeting, or peer support group to share support and inspire change 
  • Get connected to community resources for mental health, substance use, physical health, or other parts of wellness 
  • Go to appointments and other community activities to gain confidence and advocate for your needs
  • Explore opportunities and try new things with support and encouragement
  • Expand your views beyond a diagnosis, illness, or addiction

How to access peer support at Cascadia: 

Current Cascadia clients have a few options to get help from peer professionals:

  • Talk with your provider (therapist, doctor, case manager) about getting a referral. 

If you are not a current Cascadia client, please call our Cascadia Access, Information & Referral (CAIR) line at 503-674-7777 (Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.). For general questions about Peer-Delivered Services, email peer.wellness@cascadiahealth.org. 

Our Programs:

  • The Building Community Through Peer Providers program offers onsite peer support for residents at a variety of apartment communities across the Portland Metro region. Contact Building Community Through Peer Providers (BCPP) at bcpp@cascadiahealth.org. 
  • Cascadia’s Peer Navigator program works with people during transitions or when additional support is needed. To find out more, email peer.navigator.intake@cascadiahealth.org. 
  • Cascadia’s Community Navigator pilot program supports people within Multnomah County’s Forensic Diversion program. For information, email community.navigator.team@cascadiahealth.org.