Virtual Training: Parent Empowerment

What does parent empowerment have to do with peer support? In the growing service of peer support, when a youth may be struggling with their mental health, and/or substance use, to meet the needs of the youth, the needs of the parent/primary caregiver must also be met. Exactly what those needs are, will depend on the individual and his/her family. For some, one of the needs is empowerment. A parent who is empowered, is better able to support the youth in their journey of recovery and has the potential to change lives. This presentation will look at what empowerment means to a parent, why it’s important, the barriers to getting there, and steps that can be taken to support it.

About the Facilitator:

Antoinette Chambers, MS Ex.ed; PPS (Toni) is a parent of four, more than one living with a mental health diagnosis and other challenges. For ten years, served as a parent peer specialist, working with families that include children with social, emotional, behavioral, or mental health challenges. Walked beside families to provide emotional support while helping to navigate the complex service and treatment systems with which they are involved. A teaching background in special education and post-secondary education. Served on numerous state and local committees in the world of “mental health”, children services and wraparound in continued efforts to impact systems change. Despite an advanced degree in education, it is the culmination of lived experiences and of journeying alongside families, my own family and over 20 years as a foster parent that have formed my perspective, enriched my learning and empowered me to better meet the needs of my children.