ONTARIO — You don’t have to navigate mental illness alone — and NAMI Richland County wants to prove it.
This spring, NAMI Richland County will offer its free, eight-session, Peer-to-Peer course, a nationally recognized program designed by and for adults living with mental health conditions.
The course blends education, connection and real-world tools in a supportive, peer-led environment.
What participants can expect
NAMI Richland County offers the course twice a year. Affiliates across the country use the evidence-based program to help participants better understand mental illness, strengthen coping skills and build confidence in their recovery.
“The program is led by trained peer facilitators who have lived experience with mental health conditions,” Laura Beckett, adult program coordinator said. “Participants can expect a welcoming, confidential space to learn more about mental illness, explore coping strategies, build skills for recovery and connect with others who have similar experiences.”
Hearing others share their stories with honesty and strength helped me reframe my own journey. It clicked that recovery is nonlinear, and that’s OK
past participant
Each session includes learning modules, group discussions and opportunities for reflection, Beckett said these empower participants and support their personal journeys.
Beckett teaches the class alongside one of their volunteers, Wendy. Stating one of the most valuable aspects of the course is the sense of community it fosters.
“I have worked at NAMI for a little over a year and a half and this will be my third time teaching the class,” she added. “Peer-to-Peer is so beneficial, and I learn something new every time I teach it — both from the course and the people in it.”
Past participants consistently highlight the facilitators and the supportive atmosphere as standout aspects of the program.
“Laura and Wendy were exceptional facilitators. Their kindness, empathy and clarity created a space that felt safe, supportive and genuinely welcoming,” a past participant said.
“Hearing others share their stories with honesty and strength helped me reframe my own journey. It clicked that recovery is nonlinear, and that’s OK,” another past participant said.
How to register and important dates
The hybrid courses will meet every Wednesday from Feb. 18 through April 8 from 6 to 8 p.m. Participants may attend in person at the NAMI Richland County office at 2131 Park Avenue West Suite 200 or join online.
Registration must be completed by Wed. Feb. 18 at 6 p.m., before the first class begins.
“We encourage interested individuals to complete the registration as soon as possible because space is limited,” Beckett said. “Participants can register online or by calling 419-522-6264, ext. 3.”