MaineHealth Behavioral Health peer groups and peer support specialists are available in many locations.
Peer support groups for current MaineHealth Behavioral Health patients
Peer support groups for current MaineHealth Behavioral Health patients are run by peers, for peers, without clinical oversight or reporting. Services include case management, med management, individual therapy, residential services and more. Ask your behavioral health provider for a list of groups near you.
Peer support centers for adult community members
Our peer support centers provide a welcoming environment for anyone age 18 and over who is seeking to build community and foster a sense of belonging. We invite all adults who have ever struggled with significant challenges, past or present. This may include traumatic events, mental health concerns and/or substance use disorder.
Participation is voluntary and no insurance or referral is needed. Each center provides a living room, common area, meeting area and activity room. Schedules vary month-to-month, but community members can participate in a variety of groups including:
- Art
- Substance use disorder
- LGBTQIA+
- Exploring different experiences of reality
- Peer support
- Employment
All peer support center staff are, or are working toward becoming, Certified Intentional Peer Support Specialists. Learn more about this certification. The Intentional Peer Support model focuses on building mutually supportive relationships, where power is shared and social justice is promoted.
Staff have personally experienced challenges, similar to those they support, and can share insights and lessons they have learned from their own experiences. Centers offer community members an opportunity to connect with peers, talk about their lives, learn to advocate for their needs and ensure that everyone’s voice is heard and valued. Stop by one of our locations to learn more.
More about our peer support services
Our CORE program in Brunswick includes a peer support specialist working as a peer navigator. The peer navigator provides outreach to individuals experiencing homelessness, food insecurity, or other vulnerable life circumstances, as well as those living with mental health challenges and/or substance use recovery. Support and assistance is offered through outreach and engagement by establishing relationships, infusing hope for a better future, and modeling wellness with a focus on recovery.
The peer navigator works in partnership with community agencies providing services for individuals in vulnerable circumstances, such as soup kitchens, homeless shelters, day shelters, etc. The peer navigator also:
- Conducts outreach
- Builds trusting relationships
- Offers shared experiences and education on:
- Local systems and networks
- Access to support groups
- Securing basic needs
- Recovery resources
One-on-one peer support is available to all members of our behavioral health home (BHH) program. Learn more about the BHH program.
Create beautiful artwork while building self-confidence
The Life Enrichment Art Program offers a variety of art groups for York County residents and current MaineHealth Behavioral Health patients who are interested in improving their physical, spiritual and emotional wellness through creative experiences.
Classes include watercolor painting, polymer clay design, painting, decorating personal journals, driftwood and shell wind chimes, inspirational painted wooden plaques, painted terracotta planters and designing and personalizing handmade cards.
The program focuses on building mutual respect and compassion for all who choose to participate. Participants report that the opportunity to be creative and interact with others has enriched their lives and fostered friendships which continue outside the class. Classes are held weekly at the following locations:
- Wednesdays 9:30 am - 12 pm: Sherry Sabo Center (Biddeford)
- Fridays 1:30 pm - 4 pm: Main Street (Springvale)
MaineHealth Maine Medical Center Biddeford allows certified intentional peer support specialists to provide support in the mental health unit and emergency department on a volunteer basis. Peer support specialists also provide transitional support to patients after discharge. They help connect patients to recovery and/or wellness resources in the community.
Contact Us
Questions about our program? We want to hear from you. Please send us an email.
