East Bay Center is excited to announce that through an initiative spearheaded by the RI Department of Behavioral Health and funded through the National Association of State Mental Health Program Directors; specially trained Peer Wellness Coaches are coming to EBC. These individuals are uniquely qualified to assist clients through recovery because they have “walked the walk” and “talked the talk” themselves. They are extraordinary individuals who have prevailed over their own illnesses and want to inspire others to the same successes.

Peer Wellness Coaches, or Peer Specialists, have gone through a rigorous training and certification process, and are now beginning internships at local community mental health centers, including EBC. Several interns will eventually be hired to work side-by-side with professional Case Managers, Nurses, Therapists, and Psychiatrists within the multidisciplinary treatment teams and provide a range of duties designed to facilitate the development of self-help skills, support systems, coping strategies, and increase the hope and esteem that is central to recovery from a psychiatric disability.

EBC has always embraced clients on its Board of Directors, service committees, and advocacy groups, but this is the first time that clients will be providing direct care services to other clients. Their immersion into the treatment setting will enhance EBC’s ability to orient clients who are new to mental health/addictions services navigate the system, assist individuals identify their personal interests and goals, recognize early triggers and signs of relapse, and facilitate community resources.

We look forward to providing this enhanced service to our clients, as well as providing the Peer Specialists themselves support of their own recovery through paid employment – a win/win for all involved!

EBC’s mission has remained the same for many years – to improve the lives of individuals and families within our communities by providing a broad range of high quality mental health and addiction services. Especially in the face of adversity, EBC will be here to help you, your family, and your community. We encourage you to visit our website at www.eastbay.org for information regarding services, employment, locations, etc. To speak to someone regarding services or to schedule an appointment, please call 401-246-1195 and ask for “Intake”.