This section is intended to provide information about opportunities for mental health consumers to get involved and participate directly in transforming the Michigan mental health system.
The Michigan Department of Community Health recognizes the value of peer support and is demonstrating a strong commitment to training and employing consumers within the public mental health system. This commitment is consistent with the vision documented in a paper published by Center for Mental Health Services entitled Consumer-Directed Transformation to a Recovery-Based Mental Health System.
The MDCH policy on recovery and the role of peer support specialists is articulated in a
March 2007 memo from Patrick Barrie, former Deputy Director of the Mental Health and Substance Abuse Administration.
As of December 2009 the MDCH has trained and certified 643 consumers to deliver peer support specialist services in Michigan.
For information about the application process for Peer Support Specialist training and the requirements for certification please contact your community mental health service provider agency liaison.
In addition to providing peer support services, mental health consumers serve in an advisory capacity on many boards and committees at local, state and national levels. Of course, a significant number of consumers contribute to their local communities in many other ways through various forms of paid employment, volunteerism and community service. This section of the website will provide information and regular updates about important work consumers are doing to transform the public mental health system and strengthen their communities.
Position Statement on the role of peer support services from Mental Health America.