Community Dialogue - The Intersection of Harm Reduction and Peer Support: Moving Beyond Abstinence-Based Models

In this community dialogue, we’ll host a panel of peer leaders to discuss the importance of approaching our understanding of peer services through the lens of harm reduction. Historically, peer services, certifications, and trainings have been built around abstinence-based models of recovery in contradiction to common peer values such as multiple pathways and self-determination. This community dialogue will explore what it looks like to stand firm in a nuanced understanding of peer values and to move beyond the expectation of sobriety without leaving anyone behind.

Facilitator: Tim Saubers

Panelists:

Jose Martinez – National Harm Reduction Coalition

Arc Telos Saint Amour – Youth MOVE National

Shayn McDonald – Youth MOVE National

Azzy-Mae Ní Mháille – New England Users Union Eastern Massachusetts Branch Representative