Effectively Employing Young Adult Peer Providers: A Toolkit

This toolkit was developed specifically for provider organizations that employ or want to employ young adult peer providers (referred to as YA peers). 

Young adult peer providers are uniquely qualified to engage and support young adult clients because of their experience in facing similar challenges and their capacity to display authentic empathy and validation. Peer support is vital for young adults with SMHC, many of whom have lost hope for a fully engaged life. The very presence of YA peers demonstrates to young adult clients that they can be productive and fulfilled members of society. When YA peers are included in treatment teals, young adult clients are more engaged and satisfied with their treatment and begin to take greater control of their lives. Through peer support, young adult clients learn that their difficult experiences do not lack meaning, but instead instill within them higher levels of empathy and greater capacity to help others in need. 

Download the Effectively Employing Young Adult Peer Providers: A ToolKit