Peer support services connect people in recovery from mental health and/or substance use challenges with individuals still working on getting well. Peer support specialists have walked a mile in their shoes, so to speak, and are able to offer guidance and support from the perspective of someone who has overcome similar experiences.

People with mental health challenges who are helped by peers tend to experience more thorough and longer-lasting recoveries (Vestal, 2013). Additionally, research shows that the use of peer specialists allows states to save mental health program dollars by reducing hospitalizations and other emergency interventions.

Mental Health America of Northeast Indiana (MHANI) offers peer and counselor-facilitated support groups. A mental health diagnosis is not a requirement for participation in any services. MHANI is proud to employ peers at all levels of the organization.

Activities are funded in part by The Lutheran Foundation, Parkview Hospital’s Community Health Improvement program, and by Arts United and the Indiana Arts Commission, which receives support from the State of Indiana and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Public Support Groups

All support groups are available to the public and facilitated by a counselor or peer who has faced the challenge that the support group addresses. All are free to attend, and materials are provided. A mental health diagnosis is not required to join.

Artful Expressions

For those seeking a safe and supportive space to use art as a tool for mental wellness

+Every Tuesday, 6-7:30 pm

+ Free, no pre-registration required

+ For ages 15+

Creative Growth Support Group

For those looking to explore and process emotions via creative processes

+ Free, no pre-registration required

+ Groups available for various ages


Emotion Explorers is an offshoot of Creative Growth that makes emotional exploration accessible for children ages 3-7.

Bookish Minds Book Club

For those looking to use literature as a bridge to empathy, connection, and healing

+Third Thursdays of each month, 6-7:30 pm

+ Free, pre-registration required

+ Ages 18+ or 16+ with parent/guardian attendance

Times, dates, and locations of support groups are subject to change. Follow our social media platforms to stay up-to-date.

Questions? Find out more information by contacting us.

Privately-Offered Support Groups

These support groups are offered within specific organizations and are not open to the public. If interested in hosting one of the following groups, please contact our Education and Advocacy Manager, Pam, at pcashdollar[at]mhanortheastindiana.org.

Creative Aging

Presented within elderly care facilities. The curriculum cultivates emotional growth as residents participate in the creative activities.

Art Abilities

Presented in adult day programs, specifically created for adults with disabilities. This group cultivates building connections while giving creative outlet for those with limited abilities.

CalmU

A support group for college students to support their mental health. This group specifically addresses anxiety and depression but does not require a specific diagnosis.

MHANI has partnered with the following organizations to offer support groups:

  • Allen County Learning Academy
  • CHANGE Academy
  • Dekalb County Community Corrections
  • Georgetown Public Library
  • Glenbrook Rehabilitation and Skilled Nursing Center
  • Goodwill Staff
  • Indiana Tech
  • Ivy Tech
  • Life Adult Day Academy
  • Little Turtle Library
  • Journey Beside Mothers
  • Peabody Public Library
  • Tecumseh Public Library
  • The Rescue Mission
  • Turnstone
  • Shawnee Library
  • St. Joseph Mission Women’s Shelter