Peer Support Network at ASC - Los
Angeles
By Ken Bagnis, M.A.
In defining effective treatment
options, we have observed that a significant amount of growth and change relies
upon an awareness of oneself in the context of other people. At the Anne Sippi
Clinics we continue to develop program activities, which serve as a catalyst to
develop interpersonal dynamics and roles within the facility as well as the
community.
The "People Helpers" program at the Anne Sippi Clinic may best
be described as the sharing of common humanity and kindness. A prominently
displayed bulletin board is covered with a mosaic of brightly colored index
cards. On closer inspection you will find hand written advertisements. Our
clients' creative ads overlap each other with offers of help, guidance, and
friendship. "Need some help getting your state I.D. card or bus pass? I can help
you with this process. See "Cal" in room 12." "Want to get in, shape? I love to
go on walks and exercise. See "Jim" in room #2." " I love to read good books-
let's start a book club. See "Jen" in room #4." Peer support is discovered, and
clients begin to explore new ways of problem solving.
The clients'
willingness to share their strengths with their peers has helped greatly in the
development of meaningful relationships and can be interpreted as an important
step in building self-esteem and promoting competencies. This willingness to
share and be supported can be an essential step in the development of
independence, which is a primary goal of many of our treatment options. Clients
can learn to reach beyond the helpful hand of a mental health professional, and
find support in a friend, the community, and perhaps most meaningful, in
themselves.