Inclusive Healthy Communities
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Navigating life with physical, mental, developmental, or neurological disabilities comes with unique challenges – and we’re here to tackle them together. Discussed below are some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for the Nutley Family Service Bureau (NFSB), Inclusive Healthy Communities Center Inclusive Health Community (IHC), Empowered Connections: Peer Support Program, serving individuals with physical, mental, developmental, and/or neurological disabilities.
A peer support program connects individuals with trained peer specialists who have lived experience with physical, mental, developmental, and/or neurological disabilities. Peer specialists provide understanding, encouragement, and practical strategies based on shared experience—not clinical treatment.
Adults (21-64) with:
- Physical disabilities (Ex: health condition affecting mobility and sensory, also chronic illness such as diabetes, kidney disease, arthritis)
- Mental health disabilities (Ex: depression, anxiety, PTSD, bipolar disorder)
- Neurological and developmental disability (Ex: Autism, Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD))
A peer supporter is a trained individual who:
- Has lived experience with disability or health challenges
- Is in stable recovery or self-management
- Completes certified peer support training
- Follows ethical guidelines and confidentiality standards
Peer support:
- Is non-clinical and non-judgmental
- Focuses on mutual understanding and shared experience
- Emphasizes empowerment, self-advocacy, and hope
- Complements (but does not replace) medical or therapeutic care
- Group peer support sessions (8–10 participants) | Weekly (60 minutes) for 12 weeks *Participants may choose to re-join or re-enroll in these sessions again after successfully completing their first 12 weeks session.
- 1:1 Peer Support check-ins | Biweekly (30–45 minutes) *These check-ins will be continuous.
- Emotional support and encouragement
- Resource navigation and referrals
- Social connection and community engagement
You can enroll by:
- Self-referral
- Referral from a provider, school, employer, or agency
- Completing an intake form in person
Yes. Participation is always voluntary. Clients may:
- Join the program
- Choose their level of involvement
- Decline any activity they are uncomfortable with
Yes. Empowered Connection: Peer Support Program, Peer Specialist will maintain confidentiality and privacy. Information shared is not disclosed without consent, except in situations involving:
- Immediate risk of harm to self or others
- Abuse or neglect reporting requirements
Common topics include:
- Coping with disability-related challenges
- Managing daily living and independence
- Navigating healthcare or social services
- Mental health and emotional well-being
- Identity, self-esteem, and relationships
- Employment, education, or community participation
Enrollment for our peer support program is free.
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