If you or someone you know can answer "Yes" to any of the following questions, the Senior Peer Counseling program can help:
1. Are you experiencing failing health? 2. Are you feeling lonely or isolated? 3. Have you lost a loved one? 4. Are you going through a change in your living arrangements? 5. Do you need help in making difficult decisions? 6. Are you feeling overwhelmed by life in general?
What is Senior Peer Counseling?
Senior Peer Counseling (SPC) is a program where trained senior counselors meet with other seniors who are in need of a "listening ear." If you need someone to talk to who understands the problems of growing older, SPC volunteers can help.
What does the Counselor do?
Actively listens
Practices confidentiality
Does not gossip
Knows when and how to make referrals
Respects the wishes, rights, values, and beliefs of individuals
Works closely with a backup professional
What does the Counselor know?
Normal aging process
Listening, interviewing, and communication skills
Mental health problems and wellness concerns
Losses and grief
Alcohol and medication misuse and abuse
Elderly abuse
Community resources
What makes SPC effective?
Simply, it is the bond that comes with being similar in age and experience. Clients and counselors, involved in peer counseling, meet on an equal plane. As a result, a special rapport develops between the two individuals that allows a genuine supportive relationship to develop. When you combine closeness in age, caring, and common sense, you have a most effective way to break down barriers that may exist.
What type of counseling is offered?
Primarily one-to-one supportive counseling. In addition, there may be counseling groups devoted to family or marital problems, loss of a spouse, or self-improvement. Whatever the problem, the objective of peer counseling is to encourage the attitude that each of us has the potential for change for as long as we live.
Who can use SPC?
Any senior living in Peoria, Tazewell, or Woodford counties can use SPC.
Where is service received?
A Senior Peer Counselor can meet with you in your home, nursing home, or other mutually convenient place. The Peer Counselor is also trained to give help over the phone.
How much does the service cost?
SPC services are free of charge.
How can I receive service from SPC?
Call the SPC office at the Mental health Association, (309) 692-1766, Monday - Friday, 8:30am-4:00pm. For emergencies, after business hours, call (309) 673-7373 or (888) 799-7373.
Would you like to become a Senior Peer Counselor?
For further information, contact:
The Mental Health Association of Illinois Valley, Inc. 5407 N. University St. Peoria, IL 61614 (309) 692-1766
