Meet The Peer: Vanessa Needles, Peer Support Specialist

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March 25, 2024 • 21 mins

In this episode of Meet the Peer, host Whitney Menarcheck interviews Vanessa Needles, a peer support specialist in South Dakota. Vanessa shares her lived experience, including her journey through addiction, trauma, and mental health challenges. She recently became a peer specialist and is excited to use her experiences to support others. Vanessa describes peer support as using one's lived experience to provide a light for others going through similar experiences. She emphasizes the importance of the bond that comes from shared pain and the unique connection that peers can offer.

Work with Vanessa: https://straightupcare.org/consultant-profile/512

Takeaways

Peer support involves using one's lived experience to provide support and guidance to others going through similar experiences.
The bond that comes from shared pain is powerful and can create a unique connection between peers.
Meeting people where they are and respecting their autonomy is essential in peer support.
Reducing harm and providing resources for individuals at different stages of their journey is an important aspect of peer support.
Challenging stigma and owning one's lived experience can lead to personal growth and empowerment.
There is hope for those struggling, and reaching out for support can make a significant difference.

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