This workshop explores the power of peer mentoring and self-determination. Participants will learn how peer mentors with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) build supportive relationships, help others set and achieve goals, and advocate for themselves with confidence. We’ll dive into effective mentoring practices and strategies that foster independence and inclusion. Participants will hear from peer mentors on how they support others to live a self-determined life.
Tracy Vincent
Ray Schuholz- CPM
Jake Schaafsma- BA, CPM
Josh Ford- CPM
This workshop provides an overview of trauma-informed care, focusing on a peer approach. Participants will learn about various trauma responses, the nervous system, and its impact on behavior and emotion control. Participants will be equipped with skills to support trauma survivors and foster resilience and healing.
Crystal Fitzgerald- CPSS
Tammy Bumstead- CPSS
This session will expand the scope and utilization of peer support within programs and organizations involving increasing education and awareness about the unique value peer specialists bring through their lived experiences. At the Dayton VA Medical Center, education about peer support led to improved mental health outcomes- demonstrating how informed integration of peer support can significantly benefit patient care. Attendees are encouraged to think creatively about how to apply these concepts in their own settings—clearly communicating their values, scope, and offerings while fostering meaningful partnerships. Despite common challenges such as role misunderstanding, peer support professionals can overcome these barriers through persistent advocacy, relationship-building, and demonstrating their impact within the healthcare system.
Johnny Poynter- PSS
This presentation will review the design and preliminary analysis of the 2025 combined Peer Specialist/Peer Recovery Coach survey, including information on wages and workplace experience. The results of the survey can support advocacy to improve recruitment, retention, training, and workplace experience of CPSSs and CPRCs throughout the state.
Adrienne Lapidos- PhD
Delora Williams- CPSS
Kristen Abraham- PhD
This presentation will provide attendees with an overview of Michigan’s developing crisis system and how it aligns with SAMHSA’s national model. Presenters will share a description and data on each of three primary system components: someone to contact, somewhere to go, and a safe place to be. The presentation will also highlight the role of peers throughout the system.
Krista Hausermann, LMSW, CAADC
Julia Hettich, MSW
Join us for an interactive event focused on understanding trauma. We’ll explore what trauma is, how it affects individuals, how it influences our reactions to events and ways we can make a positive impact in our community. Come learn, share, and grow together as we deepen our understanding and work toward healing.
Carolyn Pifer- CPSS, CHW
