WRAP, which stands for Wellness Recovery Action Plan, is an evidence-based process developed by and for individuals with lived experience of mental illness. WRAP group members share information and ideas as they help one another develop individualized wellness plans. Two DMHS Peer Support Specialists Aubrey Andrus and Donelle Latimer were recently certified as Advanced Level WRAP Facilitators through a generously funded HSIP from the Central East Local Health Integration Network.

 In November, DMHS hosted its first Level 2 WRAP Facilitator Training, qualifying participants to facilitate WRAP workshops locally. Participants came from across the Central East Region, representing organizations including DMHS; Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Services; Hong Fook Mental Health Association; CMHA Durham; CMHA Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge; and, CMHA Toronto.

“Everyone there – both trainers and participants – represents Mental Health Peer Support at their organization,” says Aubrey. “So, we had an opportunity not only to apply what we learned from our Advanced Level training, but also to foster healthy and productive discussions on where Peer Support started, on where it is now and on what it could become in the future within our local communities.”

Donelle adds “WRAP is a natural fit within Peer Support services. The collaborative process of developing a personalized WRAP promotes the values of self-advocacy, responsibility and hope that things can and do get better. This process is facilitated by individuals who share their own lived experience of mental illness, which means everyone in the room explores the material on the same level. Facilitating WRAP groups will be a valuable addition to the Peer Support services provided at organizations across the LHIN. ”

The feedback from participants demonstrates the value of the work they accomplished together during the training. Wendy said “There is always room for growth and WRAP has enlightened me to be more intuitive about my own personal care.” John, from Ontario Shores, says “You’re not alone.” Krista, with DMHS, says “I am excited to join the wonderful family of WRAP facilitators and look forward to bringing the joy of WRAP to others.” Jen, from CMHA, Haliburton, Kawartha, Pine Ridge, says “WRAP has been a meaningful addition to my professional and personal development.” Two anonymous members added “This is by far the best training I’ve ever been to, and the most relevant” and “This process has been very helpful.  Each session has provided me with the opportunity to learn and practice WRAP facilitation.  Thank you both for an awesome week! This has been a great learning experience for me.”

Anyone who has completed their own personalized WRAP is eligible to take Level 2 Certification, which will qualify them to facilitate WRAP groups. For more information about this, please contact Aubrey Andrus at aandrus@dmhs.ca or Donelle Latimer at dlatimer@dmhs.ca.