Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Emergency
services
Your Trusted Mental Health Support in Rochester, NY
Since 1932, we have dedicated ourselves to advancing mental wellbeing through peer-led, culturally responsive programs that empower individuals and families to thrive in their chosen communities. Our organization operates as a peer-run agency, leveraging lived experience to create meaningful support systems for those navigating mental health challenges. With decades of specialized expertise in community-based mental health services, we deliver free programs that address crisis prevention, skill-building, and long-term recovery. As an affiliate of Mental Health America and a nationally recognized leader in peer support, we combine professional guidance with shared experiences to foster resilience.Our team of certified peer specialists and trained professionals ensures every service aligns with the highest standards of care while maintaining accessibility for all. Through continuous innovation in mental health education and community engagement, we remain committed to eliminating stigma and expanding access to vital resources across Monroe, Livingston, and Ontario counties.
Services
Peer Support Services
Anger Management
Creative Wellness Workshops
Life Skills Development
Community Resource Navigation
Youth & Family Support
Employment Assistance
Peer Training Academy
Details
- Year established: 1932
Highlights and features
- We operate as a peer-run agency with lived experience guiding our services
- All programs and workshops are provided completely free of charge
- Culturally competent services tailored to Monroe County communities
- 24/7 crisis support through the 988 Lifeline partnership
- Affiliated with national mental health accreditation organizations
Associations and certifications
- Mental Health America
- National Anger Management Association
What people say
Life-changing support
Caring staff
Free valuable programs
Empowering workshops
Services
Peer Support Services
Our peer support connects individuals with trained specialists who have lived experience of mental health challenges. These one-on-one relationships provide practical guidance for navigating recovery while fostering hope and empowerment. Services include crisis prevention, resource navigation, and personalized recovery planning.
Anger Management Program
This 8-week court-approved program teaches healthy coping strategies for managing anger. Participants learn stress reduction techniques, conflict resolution skills, and constructive emotional expression methods through interactive sessions led by certified specialists. All services are provided at no cost.
Creative Wellness Opportunities
These peer-led creative arts workshops combine therapeutic expression with community building. Offerings include music, visual arts, and mindfulness practices designed to enhance mental wellness through self-directed creativity and mutual support in a safe, inclusive environment for adults.
Life Skills Development
Structured workshops help participants build essential skills for mental wellness and independent living. Topics include medication management, communication strategies, and daily living skills. Sessions provide practical tools for maintaining recovery and achieving personal goals through peer-led instruction.
Community Resource Navigation
Our specialists help connect individuals with local mental health resources and support systems. This includes assistance accessing housing, employment programs, and medical services. We provide personalized guidance to navigate complex community support networks effectively.
People
Valerie Way
President/CEO
Licensed clinical social worker with extensive experience in mental health leadership, directing community-based programs since 2012. Advocate for peer-driven recovery models and systemic mental health reform.
Elizabeth Kingsley Curran
Vice President of Programs and Quality
Master counselor with dual certifications in substance abuse counseling and peer recovery advocacy. Oversees program development and quality assurance for all mental health services across three counties.
Kristina Zurich
Director of Woods Center for Wellbeing
Community engagement specialist managing creative wellness programs and anger management services. Coordinates outreach initiatives and peer support training programs for mental health professionals.
Ron Ehle
Director of Community Based Peer Support
Peer support expert developing community integration programs for adults with mental health needs. Manages CORE services and coordinates housing and employment support initiatives.
Michele Eckert
Director of Education, Training and Employment Services
Workforce development specialist overseeing peer training academy and employment support programs. Develops curriculum for professional certification of peer specialists and vocational rehabilitation services.
Questions
Are mental health services free?
Yes, all our core programs including peer support, workshops, and anger management are provided at no cost to participants.
How do I access crisis support?
Call or text 988 anytime for immediate mental health crisis assistance. Our drop-in services also offer in-person support during operating hours.
What areas do you serve?
We provide services throughout Monroe County with specialized programs available in Livingston and Ontario counties as well.
Do I need a referral?
No referrals are required for most services. Our peer support specialists can connect you directly to appropriate programs.
How can I get involved?
We welcome volunteers, peer specialists, and community partners. Contact our training academy for certification opportunities and volunteer programs.
