Women's Services 
Peer to Peer Mentoring/Support
PSS (Peer Support Services) will be provided by staff that are in recovery from addiction and have learned strategies to live day-to-day without the use of substances. PSS Specialists will participate in a training and certifications process provided by Willamette Family, Inc. This process prepares them to promote hope, personal responsibility, empowerment, and self-determination in those they serve.
Peer Support Specialists will initially focus on aspects in regards to transportation for initial appointments, child care issues, and basic food/ shelter needs. PSS will assist the Individual with answering questions and reducing uncertainties. Willamette Family’s experience is that when an Individual knows what to expect during an appointment they are more likely to participate.
PSS intensity will be the Individual’s choice. These services are not designed to tell the Individual what to do or how to live. The Peer Support Mentor shares their beliefs, styles and values that are consistent with a recovering individual. The relationship that develops between the Individual and Mentor has the potential to promote respect, trust and confidence. PSS emphases strong focus on guidance and empowerment in personal recovery programs. The PSS Specialist leads by example modeling positive recovery behavior.
If the Individual is engaged in a treatment program the PSS Mentor will assist in reducing barriers for treatment participation. Sharing the message that they are not alone and recovery is possible will increase confidence. If the individual is interested introduction into the 12-step recovery community will begin. PSS will help individuals attend meetings for the first time or those who have not attended in some time. They will explain components of the 12-Step program such as meetings, sponsorship, provide recovery literature and services. The mentor will be available to transport/meet the individual for meetings and get them started on using the “tools” of recovery. Through this relationship the Peer Support Provider will be able to introduce the individual to potential sponsors and/or other 12-Step members who are actively involved in the program.
PSS will emphasize a strong focus on the Individual’s transitional stages throughout their treatment. With guidance and support, housing acquirement and completion, Individuals are more likely to experience success.