HHS strengthens statewide family support network with parent and caregiver peer support training

North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) hosted Parent and Caregiver Peer Support Training April 1-3, equipping participants with the skills to provide peer support to parents and caregivers of children with behavioral health needs.

A total of 23 individuals completed the training, marking a significant step forward in expanding peer support services statewide. This initiative, supported by North Dakota's System of Care grant, aims to strengthen resources for families navigating behavioral health challenges. HHS was awarded a federal System of Care Expansion and Sustainability Grant in 2022 to enhance mental health outcomes for children and youth.

As part of this effort, HHS is funding new parent and caregiver peer support specialist positions at its regional Human Service Centers (behavioral health clinics), further enhancing access to peer-led family support. Additionally, other organizations across the state have hired or are in the process of hiring parent peer supporters, further broadening access to these critical services.

"Parents and caregivers play a vital role in a child's behavioral health journey, and peer supports are uniquely qualified to engage and partner with families," said Katie Houle, clinical administrator, System of Care. "This training is an important step in building a stronger, family-driven system of care across North Dakota."

The training included individuals with lived experience as a parent or primary caregiver who has navigated child-serving systems on behalf of their child(ren) with social, emotional, developmental, health, and/or behavioral health care needs. Participants will provide direct services through Human Service Centers, family-run organizations, private agencies and other child-serving systems across the state, helping ensure the skills gained will have an immediate impact in communities statewide.

HHS anticipates hosting Parent and Caregiver Peer Support trainings in July and October. For more information about future trainings, contact Lead Family Administrator Emilie Bahr at bahremilie@nd.gov. For more information about future trainings or peer support opportunities, visit hhs.nd.gov/behavioral-health/peer-support/trainings.