Deborah Diaz de Leon

Director Peer Services @Nami Orange County - National Alliance On Mental Illness

US

Program Director over multiple grant funded Peer Mentoring programs. Responsible for multiple program creation, including staffing, operations, external marketing, budgets and relationship building with referral partners. Individuals served in Peer programs are those who personally encounter challenges with their own mental health or that of a loved one. Peer Mentors are a fabulous addition to the workforce as they have lived experiences that allow them to support fellow community members struggling with their mental health and wellness or supporting a family member with a mental health condition. Grant funded each peer program has requirements specified by the funder which entails differences amongst the programs. Differences could be the desired outcomes, individuals served, location served, to name just a few.Individuals served and being served have experiences which qualify them for a Peer position. Those same experiences, also add unique management and leadership challenges and opportunities. A Peer Mentor is regularly facing complex situations where team members are supported by fellow peers and leadership. Supporting this team is extremely gratifying.