CMHA Edmonton Peer College

Interested in learning to become a Peer Support Worker and learning how to use your “lived experience” to support others in the community in their “journey” towards mental wellness?

There is no fee for the training for anyone who has “lived experience” with mental wellness or substance use challenges, or for those with the “lived experience” of supporting others who have been impacted by these challenges. This can include experience supporting community members, co-workers, family members, and friends.

About CMHA Edmonton’s Peer College

• We opened our doors in August of 2024.
• Our mission is to provide education and training for community members who are interested in learning about Peer Support Work, or becoming, Peer Support Workers in our community.
• We currently offer 2 options for Core Peer Support training.

Core Training

1. The School of Peer Support: Focuses on harnessing our “lived experience” and the qualities and strengths of wisdom, resilience, knowledge, and hope as tools to support our Community Members in their unique and individual “journeys” towards improved mental wellness.

2. Introduction to Peer Support: This course is designed for individuals with lived experience who are interested in developing peer support skills and values to assist others in a respectful, recovery-oriented way. Participants will explore the core principles, values, skills, and boundaries of peer support, with a strong emphasis on the importance of lived experience and meaningful connection within the community.

Upcoming Course Dates

Introduction to Peer Support: Practice for Community

(1.) April 16 – May 7: Thursday: 1:00 – 4:00 PM: In-person at the CMHA Edmonton office, 10232-106 St. NW Edmonton in Room E125

(2.) May 12- June 2: Tuesday: 1:00 – 4:00 PM: In-person at the CMHA Edmonton office, 10232-106 St. NW Edmonton in Room E123

(3.) June 10 – July 8: Wednesday: 1:00 – 4:00 PM: In-person at the CMHA Edmonton office, 10232-106 St. NW Edmonton in Room E125

• Please note that the course will run over 5 weeks, with the exception of July 1st, which is Canada Day. There will not be a class on Wednesday July 1. The following will be the class dates for the course: June 10, 17, 24, and July 8, from 1:00 – 4:00 PM.

Registration and Questions

If you have questions or are interested in taking part in either of these courses,  please email us at: edmontonpeercollege@cmha-edmonton.ab.ca.

Participant Information

• CMHA Edmonton Peer College participants must have “lived experience” with mental wellness or substance use challenges, or the “lived experience” of supporting those who have been impacted by these challenges. This can include experience supporting Community Members, Co-Workers, Family Members, and Friends.
• Must be adults 18 and over.
• Training is offered free of charge.
• CMHA-Edmonton welcomes diversity and celebrates difference.
• Training is offered in-person and online.

Please join us and start your journey in peer support work!

At CMHA-Edmonton Region, we acknowledge that we are on Treaty 6 Territory, a traditional meeting ground, gathering place, and traveling route to the Cree, Saulteaux, Blackfoot, Métis, Dene, and Nakota Sioux. We honor the history and culture of the Indigenous peoples with whom we share this land. Our commitment to fostering strong relations with Indigenous communities is a core part of our identity as we work together toward mental wellness and healing.