Introduction to Intentional Peer Support

Intentional Peer Support is a framework for thinking about and inviting transformative relationships among peers. Participants learn to use relationships to see things from new angles, develop greater awareness of personal and relational patterns, and support and challenge each other in trying new things.  In this highly interactive workshop, we will explore the tasks and principles of IPS, what makes it unique, and how to begin using IPS to create social change.

Learning objectives:

1) Describe and demonstrate the three principles (From Helping to Learning, From Individual to Relationship, From Fear to Hope) and four tasks of Intentional Peer Support (Establishing Connection, Understanding Worldview, Creating Mutuality, Moving Towards instead of Moving Away).

2) Understand how IPS is different from conventional approaches and how it can be used to generate new ideas and conversations that help both people become unstuck and grow.

3) Understand how to apply IPS in one's own work life and personal environment.

Steven Morgan has worked in peer support services for the past decade, during which time he has helped create and manage several peer-run and alternative mental health programs.  Steven has a passion for creating instruments of social change, a love of organizational development, and a belief in the transformative power of community. In 2013, he joined Intentional Peer Support as operations manager.