At Vegas Stronger, we recognize the powerful impact of shared experiences in fostering mental health recovery. Our Peer Support Services are designed to help individuals find hope, resilience, and purpose in their journey toward well-being. Led by Peer Support Specialists—individuals who have walked a similar path to recovery—our program provides a unique and compassionate approach to mental health support that goes beyond traditional clinical care. At Vegas Stronger, 75% of our staff are in recovery, as well as 50% of our board of directors. We hire peer support supervisors and people who have lived experience.

What Are Peer Support Services?

Peer support workers are individuals with lived experience of recovery from mental health or substance use challenges. They offer encouragement, empathy, and practical support to others experiencing similar challenges. Through shared understanding and mutual empowerment, our peer support team provides a trusted connection that can make all the difference, helping individuals stay engaged in recovery, reduce the risk of relapse, and build a fulfilling, sustainable life in recovery.

The Four Core Dimensions of Recovery

Peer support emphasizes a holistic approach to recovery, centered on these four key dimensions:

1. Health – Supporting individuals to manage symptoms, overcome challenges, and make healthy choices that strengthen both physical and emotional well-being.
2. Home – Fostering stability by helping individuals find and maintain a safe, supportive place to live.
3. Purpose – Encouraging meaningful activities like employment, education, volunteering, and creative pursuits that enhance personal fulfillment and social involvement.
4. Community – Building connections that provide friendship, love, support, and hope, so that no one in recovery has to feel alone.

How Peer Support Makes a Difference

Our specialists are trained and certified professionals who use their lived experience to mentor and motivate others. They serve in various roles—leading recovery groups, advocating for individuals, building life skills, and guiding people through complex systems. These professionals can be found in hospitals, community centers, crisis services, and even correctional facilities, working alongside clinicians to extend the reach of recovery support. In fact, peer support is available in all 50 states and is Medicaid reimbursable in 35, demonstrating its status as a best practice in behavioral health according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

Proven Benefits

Research has shown that integrating PS into mental health care offers many benefits, including:

• Reduced symptoms and hospitalizations – It can significantly decrease the frequency of symptoms and the need for hospitalization.
• Increased social engagement – By fostering connection and a sense of belonging, it helps people become more involved in their communities.
• Lower healthcare costs – It has been shown to reduce the cost of mental health services by decreasing hospital stays and improving treatment efficiency.
• Enhanced self-esteem and life satisfaction – Working with a peer who understands can boost self-confidence, build resilience, and improve overall well-being.
• Longer-lasting recoveries – With peer support, individuals are more likely to achieve and sustain their recovery.

Key Roles of Peer Support Workers

Our specialists engage in a wide variety of roles and responsibilities, which may include:

• Advocating for individuals in recovery – Helping individuals navigate systems, understand their rights, and secure needed resources.
• Building community and connections – Fostering meaningful relationships through one-on-one support and group activities.
• Leading and mentoring – Setting goals, leading recovery-focused groups, and empowering others to pursue their recovery journeys.
• Educating and promoting awareness – Raising public awareness about mental health issues, advocating for policy changes, and educating others about the recovery process.

Why Include Peer Support in Your Treatment?

Our program is built on the understanding that recovery is possible, and no one should have to face it alone. The unique blend of professional skills, personal experience, and shared commitment among our peer support specialists offers our clients a compassionate, realistic, and inspiring pathway to recovery. By integrating peer support into your recovery journey, you gain an ally who can relate, motivate, and guide you toward a fulfilling, empowered life.

Discover the powerful role that peer support can play in mental health recovery at Vegas Stronger. Reach out today to learn more about our peer support services, our team, and the resources available to help you or your loved one thrive in recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the core competencies for peer workers? Our team is trained in essential skills for behavioral health support, including advocacy, relationship-building, and goal setting.
• How does it help with long-term recovery? Through shared experience and understanding, peer support builds confidence, reduces isolation, and fosters lasting engagement in the recovery process.

For more information on our services, contact us today. Let us help you or your loved one take the next steps toward healing and empowerment with the guidance of someone who has been there.

Read a testimonial from alumni Nea Tarry about how Peer Support helped her on her path to recovery.