This program is supported by a grant from Senior Solutions, Area Agency on Aging. Started in 2002, the Peer Counseling program matches trained mentors with other seniors and caregivers who can benefit from the mentor’s life experiences, skills, emotional support and guidance.

The underlying philosophy is that every senior has the right to live a mentally healthy, productive life and that senior peer counselors drawing on their own experiences and special training are a proven, effective way to provide assistance.
Mentors and participants will meet together weekly. Opportunities for mentors and participants to meet in groups also will be offered.

More than 2 million of the 34 million Americans age 55 and older develop depression as they grow older. The suicide rate among senior citizens increases as they advance in age; some of the triggers include loss of a spouse or mate, lack of social interaction, restricted mobility and feelings of isolation.

TO BE MATCHED with a Peer Counselor/Mentor, please call the Association office, 239-261-5405.

TO VOLUNTEER AS A MENTOR

Peer counselors are men and women from diverse backgrounds and experiences who are selected for their warmth and caring for others. They receive extensive training (twice weekly over three months) and earn a Peer Counseling Certificate after successful completion of the training program.

Ongoing supervision and continuing training is also an essential part of their experience. These counselors utilize their skills and life experiences to provide emotional support and guidance to their peers. Weekly commitments are approximately four hours.

The target population for the Peer Counseling Program is caregivers and seniors Therefore, the peer counselors must be caregivers, former caregivers or individuals over the age of fifty-five.

Training programs will be offered periodically through the year. Call the Association office to learn more: 239-261-5405.

Don L. Williams, Ph.D., a retired psychologist, is the Peer Counseling Program director. Don is the former chief of Community Mental Health Services for the U.S. Army Health Clinic in Fort McPherson, Georgia.