This account will be discontinued as of January 11, 2022. Be sure to follow us to stay updated on all our programs and services! Mission
The Nipissing Family Peer Support Services comprises members caring for a loved one with a mental health issue. Promoting healthy family units and holistic wellness through education, advocacy, information sharing and peer support, we encourage growth and healing in a safe and confidential place. In collaboration with our local and regional partners, we provide opportunities for personal development and ensure our members’ voices are heard by those who influence change. With honesty, integrity and inclusiveness, we strive to facilitate communication between families, mental health caregivers and the community to support members’ loved ones during treatment, recovery and return to their lifestyle. Vision
We, the members of Nipissing Family Peer Support Service, participants, volunteers and staff, do hereby pledge our sincere intent towards wellness for ourselves, our families, our community and our society, and to this end we recognize adversity and prosperity. We shall err on the side of virtue and know that this is the ethical path from which we will work, live and love together as a village of sisters and brothers! Family Peer Support
When someone is diagnosed with a mental health issue it can affect the whole family including the parents, children, spouses and siblings. Family members most often become the primary caregivers to their loved ones. Nipissing Family Peer Support Services (NFP), recognizes how stressful that can be. 1 in 5 people will experience mental health issues in their lifetime and we understand how mental health issues can affect both the individual who is diagnosed and the family as well. In response to the family’s need for education and support regarding mental health, NFP is pleased to offer its Family Peer Support Services
Individual meetings-These meetings are free, safe and confidential. They are offered to family members supporting loved ones living with a mental health issue. We have an open-door policy, where our members can drop-in or call-in for an appointment when the support is needed. Individual meetings are lead by a peer support specialist. Our supporting goals include: Supporting family caregivers
:Facilitating good communication between family members & service providers
:Providing advocacy regarding mental health issues that affect families
:Offering educational opportunities that meet the needs of family members
:Providing appropriate services to outlying areas of Nipissing district. Family Peer Support Services-This service nurtures hope for individuals who love and choose to support someone with a mental health issue. The Family Peer Support Group provides information about mental health issues, resources in the community and a place for people to talk. Individuals have a chance to hear what others are experiencing, to share and find support, and to develop healthy self care practices. This support group is free and day and evening times are offered. All meetings take place at NFPSS. NAMI Family-to-Family Program
A free, 12 week course for family caregivers of individuals with mental illness. The course teaches the knowledge and skills that family members need to cope more effectively. Attend with other family members just like you in a confidential setting
Gain insight into how mental illness affects your relative
Take an eye-opening look inside some of today’s current brain research related to mental illness
Learn how families can become advocates for better treatments for their relatives
Learn about the mental illness medications available and the latest treatment options
Learn to cope with worry and stress; learn to focus on care for you as well as your loved ones
What you should expect- Meets for 12 session, 2.5 hours each, free of cost. Designed for loved ones (over age 18) of individuals living with mental illness. Taught by trained family members of individuals living with mental illness. Provides critical information and strategies related to care giving. Incorporates presentations, discussion and exercises. Designated an Evidence Based Practice in 2013 by SAMHSA. FERST - Family Emergency Response Support Team
30 minute response time to NBRHC during office hours with onsite Peer Support Specialist
15 minute call back service for telephone support during regular office hours
Experienced, provincially trained peer support specialist (navigator) in E.D. Collaborative with on site Peer Support Services at the NBRHC
One-stop system navigator support
Team approach within 12 hours with all regular Family Peer Services
Social and recreational activities
Here at Nipissing Family Peer Support Services, we offer a wide range of services, some of which include social and recreational activities. Here are several of these activities: Workshops (self-care, mental health)
Guest speakers
Annual Christmas dinners
Card making events
Monthly tea social
Webinars
Tai Chi
and more. Outreach Services
Our services extend into the towns, villages and rural areas of Nipissing District. Often meeting in informal settings, we offer small groups and individual family members a subset of our programming based on their needs. We reach north to Marten River, west to Verner and Sturgeon Falls, east to Mattawa and south through Callander. With no formal dates and times for support in any of these outlying communities, family members are encouraged to contact NFPSS to ensure that we can coordinate a visit that meets your needs and location.
