The working definition of Recovery from mental disorders and/or substance use disorders is a process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live a self- directed life, and strive to reach their full potential.

Through the Recovery Support Strategic Initiative, SAMHSA has also delineated four major dimensions that support a life in recovery:

Health: Overcoming or managing one’s disease(s) as well as living in a physically and emotionally healthy way. 

Home: A stable and safe place to live. 

Purpose: Meaningful daily activities, such as a job, school, volunteerism, family caretaking, or creative endeavors, and the independence, income and resources to participate in society.

Community: 

relationships and social networks that provide support, friendship, love, and hope.

Our Values and Beliefs 

Lived Experience is about the sharing of one’s experiences with their Recovery for substance use/abuse and/or trauma, mental health, and/or dual diagnoses, and domestic violence that allows people to connect with each other at a different level. 

Hope and Recovery is about believing that others, no matter where they are at any particular point in time in their Recovery, can recover and the power of hope that comes from that belief. We will hold hope with others until they can hold their own hope.  

Self Determination is the place of having faith that each person intrinsically knows which path towards recovery is most suitable for them and their needs. Respecting that each person is an expert on themselves. 

Empathetic and Equal Relationships, or another word we commonly hear is mutuality. This has both the Peer Support Specialist and the person being supported as equal participants. The Peer Support Specialist does not have the answers and both parties can learn and grow in the relationship together. 

Dignity, Respect and Social Inclusion has people being treated as people, being respected at all times, and supporting people to engage in their communities of choice.  

Integrity, Authenticity and Trust is about noting that confidentiality, reliability and ethical behavior are honored at all times. Health and Wellness acknowledges all aspects of a healthy and full life. 

Lifelong Learning and Personal Growth acknowledges the value of learning, changing, and developing