We understand this is an important transitional time in the patients' lives, and that there are many decisions to make. We provide trained Peer Advocates who can work with the patients, the patients' family members, and other outside sources to provide reassurance, while keeping patients informed about beneficial services available to them.

Peer Advocates provide assistance in the mental health services planning process. They are available to assist patients in becoming participants in their own recovery.

 

 

The Role of a Peer Advocate

Our peer advocates provide an outreach program for recipients of mental health services in the community and for patients receiving treatment at Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center, in the Behavioral Health Service Unit.

Peer-Linkage Advocates work with the patients, family members and outside sources, providing reassurance and notifying patients of all available services.

It is the goal of the Peer Advocates to see that each patient has access to the best and most suitable resources.

 

Information & Resources Available Include:

• Self-help
• Social Clubs
• Legal Rights as a Psychiatric Patient Information
• Self-help groups
• Reassurance in the hospital setting
• Encouragement
• Referrals to community services and programs
• A positive, supportive atmosphere

 

Peer Advocates:

• Work with people who have psychiatric diagnoses
• Work with friends and family members helping them to understand the process in the hospital
• Provide reassurance for patients and their families
• Keep clients informed about all available services
• Make sure that the client will receive the best services and care available

 

Peer Advocates are limited to helping admitted patients at NFMMC only. However, if an individual needs advocacy outside of the hospital they can visit our Peer Specialist Services page, to see what other programs or information might be available to them.