Overview

The SPIRIT Training creates a space in which mental health consumers can empower themselves by developing core skills in attaining and maintaining recovery through self-awareness, self-actualization and peer support. SPIRIT Training prepares mental health consumers to make an important contribution to the mental health system by filling paid or volunteer peer support positions in agencies that serve persons with mental health issues.

The SPIRIT Training is offered once a year and includes two components: a comprehensive twelve week classroom training and support program followed by a ten week individualized work-study placement.

Program Goals

1. To empower mental health consumers as self-actualized persons.
2. To promote an understanding of the importance of peer support as an integral part of the recovery journey as well as to the overall mental health system of care.
3. To promote a working understanding of Contra Costa Mental Health Programs, the Consumer/Survivor/Ex-Patient Movement, and Self-Help Techniques.
4. To assist consumers in identifying, developing and sustaining their personal support systems.
5. To promote the development and use of personal wellness plans.
6. To increase awareness of community resources which aid consumers in living successfully in the larger community.
7. To assist consumers with career exploration that will help them develop skills that enable them to find meaningful work activity.
8. To prepare participants to work in the mental health field.

SPIRIT is developed and sponsored by Contra Costa Mental Health and provided by Mental Health Consumer Concerns and The Office for Consumer Empowerment. This program is a collaboration between consumers, family members, and service providers in the mental health field.

For more information about SPIRIT, please contact Sharon Kuehn at (925) 957-5143 or Aaron Kling at (925) 646-5784