Frequently Asked Questions

Peer support is when people who share similar experiences or challenges come together and provide a safe, nonjudgmental space for mutual support. Together, they can explore whatever they’re struggling with alongside someone who’s been there too. In peer support, we trust that each person is the expert on their own experiences and typically don't give advice unless it’s asked for. Otherwise, I'm happy to share what worked best for me if I was ever in a similar situation. 

A peer specialist is a trained individual who uses their lived experience to help others navigate what they’re going through, feel empowered to make decisions, and find meaning in life. I usually support folks who are in deep distress, often dealing with chronic suicidal thoughts or just having a rough time, though anyone is welcome to reach out to me no matter what's happening in your life. 

Unlike a therapist, a peer relationship is nonhierarchical, so both people can give and receive support. That means I may share details about my own life, coping strategies I’ve used, and other things that have helped me.

Having shared experience also means we'll have a connection and that I'm not just there to “fix” you. I don't believe there's anything wrong with you, and I won't judge you because I've been there too.

New York requires peer specialist training (and annual continuing education), at least 2,000 hours of supervised experience, letters of reference, commitment to adhere to a code of ethics, and a certification exam. I’ve been certified since 2018 and have worked with folks both one-on-one and in groups in many different settings, including public parks, community centers, emergency rooms, inpatient psychiatric units, police stations, court rooms, doctor’s offices, and more. I’ve also provided peer support by phone, text, and video. 

Over the past eight years, I have facilitated 3-4 support groups a week, at least one of which has always been Alternatives to Suicide, meant for people who struggle with suicidal thoughts. The group helps to normalize these feelings and provides a space to discuss them without judgment, often reducing their impact. 

Every year I participate in a range of professional development courses well above what’s required. Some topics I’ve studied have been: 

• trauma-informed care
• harm reduction approach to self-injury
• cultural humility 
• LGBTQ+ affirming services 
• anti-oppression
• conflict de-escalation 
• supporting trans or gender nonconforming folks 
• suicide prevention
• peer advocacy
• understanding loneliness and social isolation 
• motivational interviewing 
• voices, visions, and unusual beliefs

My mental health education doesn’t make me an “expert.” It means I’m committed to always learning so that I can apply those skills to my experience and provide you with the best support.

Yes, I offer a free 30-minute meeting where you can ask any questions and get a feel for how we connect to decide if we’re a good fit. No commitment needed!

Please reach out to schedule a conversation. 

Yes, I realize evenings and weekends can be tough for many people to get through, so I have availability at those times. I'm also available during the day.

Typically, meetings are scheduled for one hour, but I’m flexible based on your needs. In the past, I’ve held sessions from 30 minutes up to two hours. Most people like to meet once or twice a week, but I can schedule appointments at the frequency you prefer.

Unfortunately, peer support isn't accepted by health insurance providers yet, so services are out-of-pocket. At the moment, I do not have the means to provide additional sliding scale slots.

However, I will gladly meet with anyone for a free 30-minute consultation, even if you don't plan to continue, and I can share whatever resources I'm aware of. For example, some peer-run organizations in different areas offer free peer support. They're typically busier with specific working hours that may limit how much time they’re able to talk with you, but this could still be helpful.

Yes, if I've been given the same diagnosis, I can meet with you to share my insights, experience, and resources about a specific mental health condition. However, please keep in mind that diagnoses are on a spectrum and that everyone experiences them differently. The best person to ask about how you can better support your family member or friend is that family member or friend themself.

Please contact me to ask about my diagnoses.

Yes, I currently co-facilitate several online support groups each week through a peer-run organization. Contact me for details. Anyone is welcome to join these groups. 

Yes, I speak Spanish conversationally.