What is Peer Support Exactly?

​Peer support is about building connections and finding support from people who have been through similar experiences. Our peer supporters are trained adults who have completed a specialized program with Peer Support Nova Scotia. They understand what it feels like to go through tough times and are here to listen, share their experiences, and provide encouragement.

 

Peer support is not about giving advice, fixing problems, or telling you what to do. Instead, it's about creating a safe space where you can talk openly and be heard by someone who "gets it."

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What Peer Support is Not

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• Not Therapy: Peer support is different from professional counseling or therapy. Peer supporters are not therapists or counselors, and they don't diagnose or treat mental health issues.

• Not Advice: Peer supporters won't tell you what to do. Instead, they'll share their own experiences and listen to yours, helping you explore your own feelings and options.

• Not Judgmental: There's no right or wrong way to feel, and peer supporters will respect your experiences and emotions without judgment.​

 

How Can You Benefit from Peer Support?

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• Feeling Less Alone: Talking to someone who's been through something similar can make you feel less isolated and more understood.

• Empowerment: Peer support can help you feel more confident in your ability to handle challenges and make decisions.

• A Listening Ear: Sometimes, just having someone to listen without judgment can make a big difference.

• Connection and Growth: Peer support can help you connect with others and grow through the ups and downs of life.

 

This service is free and available to all youth and their families. We're here to support you in times of distress, uncertainty, or growth.

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How Does Peer Support Booking Work at Aidaen's Place?

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Each client begins with an initial assessment to ensure that peer support is the right fit for them. During this assessment, we explain the guidelines and expectations for both the client and the peer supporter. This is also the time for clients to ask any questions they may have about the process.

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Once the assessment is complete, each client is matched with the peer supporter best suited for their needs. We also assign a secondary supporter in case your initial match is unavailable. This ensures that support remains consistent and accessible when you need it.

 

Meeting Details: Meetings generally last one hour and should be booked no sooner than seven days apart to allow time for reflection and progress. The wait time for your initial assessment is typically 2-4 days, as it is our goal to provide support as soon as it's needed.

 

Important Notes:

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• Parental Consent: Youth ages 9-11 require parental consent in order to engage in peer support with one of our trained staff.

• Confidentiality: Peer support is confidential unless the client is at immediate risk to themselves, to someone else, or if the information has been requested by law.

• Safety: One-on-one peer support takes place behind closed doors but under the safety of video and audio surveillance to ensure a secure environment for everyone.

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