Let’s Talk About…

Let’s Talk About…The Peer Movement in New Jersey
 
When: Monday, May 18, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM
Register here: Sign me up!
 
Join us for a panel discussion exploring the history, evolution, and future of the peer workforce in New Jersey’s mental health and addiction recovery systems.

Featuring leaders and advocates in the field, this conversation will trace how peer support developed in New Jersey, why peer certifications were created, and how lived experience has shaped recovery-oriented services across the state.

Panelists will share their journeys into peer work and offer insight into the creation and growth of key certifications, including Certified Recovery Support Practitioner (CRSP) and Certified Peer Recovery Support (CPRS).

The panel will also examine the challenges in training, supervision, certification, and workforce support, and discuss what changes may be needed to strengthen peer roles moving forward.

Hosted by NCAAR’s Community Coordinator, Tonia Ahern, we will be joined by:

  • Chrissy Schayer, Director of Consumer Connections for MHA-NJ/Certified WRAP Facilitator
  • Patrick Roff, MA, CPRS, Director of Training, Roff Institute at CARES and Prevention is Key
  • Heather Ogden, Owner/Founder of Heartistic Recovery, LLC
  • Mike Santillo, Co-Founder of NJ-CARS/GSARR Coalition Team Lead

We welcome you all to attend, however, we do ask that you register first.

 

 
 

 

 

May 18 @ 13:00
1:00 pm — 2:00 pm (1h)