CMHA NS Peer Support Programs

The Womens Empowerment Squad

The Women’s Empowerment Squad is a safe and friendly place to connect with others, feel heard and hear from others who understand.

• When: This group meets IN PERSON Tuesdays from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m.
• Where: Community Cares, 55 King Street, Sydney Mines, Nova Scotia
• Who: This group is intended for those who identify as women and are 18 years of ages or older.

*Snacks, beverages provided at meetings. Bus tickets available if needed.*

To register, contact Samantha Bonnar by email at [email protected] or by phone at 902-979-0700

Canso Peer-to-Peer Circle

The Canso Peer-to-Peer Circle is a safe space for Nova Scotians who have experienced gender-based violence to find connection, receive support and draw strength from one another.

• When: The Canso Peer-to Peer Circle meets every 2nd Tuesday of the month.
• Where: Canso Library Society,169 Main Street, Canso, Nova Scotia
• Who: Nova Scotians over the age of 18 who have experienced gender-based violence. All genders are welcome.

To register, contact Michelle Newell by email at [email protected] or by phone at 902.870.0016

South Shore Parents Peer Support Group

Parenting can be challenging. But you don’t have to face those challenges alone. The Parents Peer Support Group is a safe, non-judgmental place to connect, share your stories and struggles, and learn from the experiences of other parents.

• When: This group meets IN PERSON Wednesdays from 11:00 a.m.- 12:00 p.m.
• Where: The Living Room, Bridgewater Mall | South Shore Centre, 421 Lahave Street, Bridgewater, NS, B4V 3A2

Other Details: Meetings are held in a child-friendly space but please note, we do not provide child-care. Parents are encouraged to bring a quiet toy or book to entertain their child. WALK INS WELCOME!

To register, email [email protected]

Caregiver Connections Family Peer Support Group

Supporting an individual living with a mental illness or substance use disorder can take an emotional toll. Caregiver Connections provides caregivers with a safe and friendly place to connect with others, feel heard and hear from others who understand.

This weekly, virtual peer support group  is designed for parents, grandparents, siblings, partners, and children of Nova Scotians living with a mental illness or substance use disorder.

• When: This group meets VIRTUALLY every Tuesday from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
• Where: We offer this group via Zoom to allow Nova Scotians who reside anywhere in the province to take part and be supported.
• Who:This group is designed for parents, grandparents, siblings, partners, and children of Nova Scotians living with a mental illness or substance use disorder. Group members must reside in Nova Scotia and be over the age of 16.

Parents Peer Support Group

Parenting can be challenging. But you don’t have to face those challenges alone. The Parents Peer Support Group is a safe, non-judgmental place to connect, share your stories and struggles, and learn from the experiences of other parents.

• When: This group meets VIRTUALLY every other Thursday from 11:00 a.m.- 12:00 p.m. until April 2025
• Where: We offer this group via Zoom to allow parents who reside anywhere in the province to take part and be supported.

OCD Parent and Caregiver Peer Support Group

Managing Your Child’s OCD? You’re Not Alone. The OCD Parent and Caregiver Peer Support Group offers a safe, non-judgmental space to connect with others who truly get it. In this group, you can learn from the insights and strategies of fellow parents, helping each other find hope and encouragement.is a safe, non-judgemental place to connect, share your stories and struggles, and learn from the experiences of other parents.

• When: This group meets monthly from 7:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.
• Where: We offer this group via Zoom to allow parents and caregivers who reside anywhere in the province to take part and be supported.

To register, email [email protected]

Newcomers Peer Support Group

Step into a welcoming space where stories are shared, experiences are reflected upon, and friendships are formed.

• Meet fellow newcomers
• Share your journey and listen to others
• Find support and friendship in a safe environment

• When: This group meets from 5:30 – 7:30 every second and fourth Thursday until December 3, 2024
• Where: NSCC Burridge Campus, 372 Pleasant Street, Yarmouth, NS, Room C-181

To register, email Elizabeth Zavala-Nunez at [email protected]

Becoming a Peer Support Group Facilitator

CMHA NS Division seeks individuals with lived experience to help us offer peer support groups. These relationships are key to ensuring that CMHA NS the mental health needs of all Nova Scotians are met. 

Facilitators are responsible for guiding a group with a focus on ensuring groups are a respectful and safe space to discuss mental health challenges.

What does a peer support group facilitator do?

Peer support group facilitators have lived through similar experience to those who attend the group, and is trained to support members of the group. Facilitators are responsible for guiding groups with a focus on ensuring groups are a respectful and safe space to discuss mental health challenges.

What we look for: 

• Community facilitator experience
• Comfortable with Public Speaking
• Lived experience with mental health
• Engaging and encouraging personality
• Credibility within the community
• Ability to lead
• Leadership experience
• Organizational skills
• Willingness to commit to the agreed upon schedule

What you gain from this role:  

Being a peer support group facilitator with CMHA NS is a big commitment but it’s also a deeply rewarding one. Facilitators often build on their leadership and facilitation skills while building strong connections to their communities. CMHA provides training, along with an honorarium.

Visit the News section of our website to view any current listings for a peer support group facilitator.

These peer support groups are generously funded by the Mental Health Foundation of Nova Scotia.