Peer to Peer Counseling Services

When you have been through challenges and overcome dark times, it can feel like your experiences are just too different, driving one more wedge between you and others. As part of their mission to prove you are not alone, Harmony Homes for Healing in Oakland and Fairfield, California, emphasizes peer-to-peer counseling so you can experience the empathy of other people with similar structures and support them in return. To learn more, get in touch with Harmony Homes for Healing by phone or online today.

What is peer-to-peer counseling?

This form of counseling looks like a group conversation under the guidance of a peer counselor. They can contribute their unique perspective and facilitate a safe and open space to open up and listen to other residents.

Harmony Homes for Healing provides support to survivors of domestic abuse, individuals with disabilities, sober living and transitional housing, and community support to individuals and families who find themselves without safe housing.

Because they work with vulnerable populations, the team at Harmony Homes for Healing knows that addressing people’s mental needs is going to be as important as looking after their physical needs.

They facilitate 12-step programs every week, but the weekly peer-to-peer counseling sessions (also called “harmony circles”) provide the opportunity for residents to connect, forge a community, and heal together.

What is the focus of peer-to-peer counseling?

Peer-to-peer counseling primarily aims to provide support, foster communication between group members, and promote self-discovery. Peer-to-peer counseling involves:

• Active listening
• Giving feedback
• Finding solutions
• Exploring feelings, even very strong feelings
• Problem-solving as a group

Even with a positive focus on finding solutions and solving problems, the goal is never to “fix” anyone. The important thing is to feel heard, to identify areas of need, and to navigate life with a sense of community. Perspective and insight are key benefits of this kind of counseling.

Why is peer-to-peer counseling crucial for vulnerable people?

Working through trauma with other people who relate can help with:

Improving communication skills

Group sessions offer a safe environment to practice clear, appropriate communication.

Conflict resolution

When interpersonal issues arise, which is common and normal, peer-to-peer counseling can demonstrate how to resolve conflict healthily.

Building self-esteem

It can be hard to feel good about yourself during hard times, but getting a new perspective on your circumstances can also give you a new perspective about yourself.

Gaining life skills

A counselor can discuss setting goals, making responsible decisions, and prioritizing tasks.

Creating connections

Connecting with other residents forges a support system that can benefit everyone.

Healing mentally

Counseling can help you recognize your own feelings, make healthy choices about how to process them, and begin feeling better.

To learn more about peer-to-peer counseling and mental health support at Harmony Homes for Healing, reach out by phone or online.