INterview with peer star

This interview with a Peerstar employee was conducted by email, and a follow-up to our recent June 2025 MHCC newsletter featuring them as a provider.

What would you say is the best way for the community to be inclusive to those suffering with mental health challenges?
I believe the best way for communities to be inclusive to those suffering with mental health challenges is to show support by educating themselves on homelessness, mental health initiatives, statistics, and mental health diagnoses. 

Who is your biggest inspiration?
The people who inspire me the most are the people I've met along the way who have lived through the unimaginable and have overcome.

Can you share about your personal journey, and how it relates to peer support? I have worked in the human services field for the last 25 years. In all the positions I've held, I have never seen rapport built faster and progress made quicker than the CPS's who work at Peerstar. 

How do you build trust with someone who is unwilling to open up?
Trust is not on your terms, so you wait patiently and hope you are found to be deserving of another's trust. 

How do you handle a situation where your client disagrees with you?
I mean, this should happen often. I welcome the dialogue and appreciate the opportunity to learn more about the client. 

What do you see as the biggest strengths of peer support?
​The lived experience that CPS's offer to our Peers is an immeasurable strength of peer support.