Mental Health Association Programs
Consumer Recovery, Family Satisfaction, Peer Specialists, and more
Our Programs
The Mental Health Association of Northwestern Pennsylvania (MHA) is an organization founded and operated by people served in the mental health system. MHA primarily serves mental health consumers over 18 years of age. The MHA operates a Consumer Recovery Center which provides the opportunity for adults who are consumers of mental health services to interact with peers in social, educational, and recreational activities in an environment in which they feel safe and respected. Although the Consumer Center is the core of MHA, we also offer a variety of other programs serving the various needs of our community.
Consumer Recovery Center
The Consumer Recovery Center of the MHA of Northwestern PA is a drop-in center for adults aged 18 and older. Membership is free. Activities provided to members come at low to no cost. Members are provided with a safe and relaxing environment to connect and socialize with others. Activities/services provided include but are not limited to:
- Free daily lunch
- Free access to WIFI network
- Locker storage access
- Shower facilities
- Movie field trips
- Arts & crafts
- Laundry facilities
- Computer lab
- Bowling field trips
- Card and pool tournaments
How to Become a Member
Complete a short intake with a Recovery Center staff member. Individuals must provide a Photo ID and proof of current or past mental health treatment.
Consumer Family Satisfaction Team
The mission of the Consumer/Family Satisfaction Team is to listen to people to find out their ideas about what is or is not helping them move through the public Mental Health and Drug and Alcohol (D&A) systems. With a deep respect for each person’s rights and dignity, we report each consumer’s satisfaction and dissatisfaction. Through our interviews, C/FST hopes to improve delivery of Mental Health and Drug and Alcohol services in Erie County.
Certified Peer Specialists
Any Erie County resident over the age of 18 interested in getting help on the journey to recovery is eligible for Certified Peer Specialist services.
- Candidates must be diagnosed with, or currently receiving treatment for, a serious or persistent mental illness that interferes with, or limits role performance in life, work, education or social situations
- Program enrollment requires a written recommendation from a licensed psychologist, physician, nurse practitioner or physician’s assistant
Contact the Peer Support Program at MHA for more information about this referral. Please call (814) 452-4462, Ext. 133.
Peer Navigators at Blasco Library
The Peer Navigator service is a peer based service in which all staff self-identify as consumers of mental health services. The Peer Navigator is a Pennsylvania State Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) and is certified to complete Wellness Recovery Action Plans (WRAP). By sharing their recovery stories with fellow peers the Peer Navigator offers hope, modeling, and mentoring.
The Peer Navigator educates/trains library staff on issues of mental health, substance abuse and homelessness. Training will be provided to library staff on recognizing symptoms of mental illness and strategies to defuse potential volatile situations. Along with the staff, the Peer Navigator assists with mental health crisis intervention.
The Peer Navigator works one-on-one with library patrons who want support and assistance. Wellness Recovery Action Plans (WRAP) may be developed or other recovery tools may be utilized. Library patrons may receive help navigating the physical/mental health systems. Individual and group support will be provided on-site at the Erie County Library-Blasco Memorial by the Peer Navigator. Assistance in identifying community resources that could benefit peers may be given. Peer Navigator may help peers find recovery related activities to attend. He/she may assist library patrons with completion of applications for public assistance in the library computer lab. The Peer Navigator may make referrals for continued education endeavors such as literacy, adult education, GED and career counseling.
External Advocate at Warren State Hospital
The External Advocate at Warren State Hospital attends and monitors all patient Community Support Plan meetings to ensure they are person-centered, recovery- oriented, and a positive experience for the individual. He/she meets with individuals shortly after their admission to educate them on their rights, to explain the grievance/complaint process, and to answer questions they may have about WSH.
Opportunities for Growth
Volunteering
Use your skill set and strengths to help others ease back into employment, strengthen skills, and build your resume.
Internships
Social workers make a meaningful difference in the world every single day, supporting disadvantaged children, individuals, and families with issues including disabilities, adoption, illness, and addiction. Accredited social work programs require on-site experience through a social work internship or practicum, known as a “field placement.” Under the supervision of experienced professionals, MHA interns receive specialized training in evaluation and treatment, case management, and administrative duties.
Peer-Led Support Groups
Give and receive peer support from your life experiences.
Mental Health Association Special Events