California Peer Watch is an organization of Mental Health Peers in California who are passionate advocates for a Person-Centered approach to mental health care. Unlike the traditional top-down approach favored by the government, California Peer Watch emphasizes the importance of involving individuals with lived experience in shaping mental health policies and services.

Peer Advocacy: The organization comprises individuals who have personally navigated the mental health system. These peers bring unique insights, empathy, and understanding to the table. They advocate for policies that prioritize the well-being and autonomy of individuals receiving mental health services.

Person-Centered Approach: California Peer Watch believes that mental health care should be centered around the individual. This means recognizing each person’s unique needs, preferences, and goals. Rather than imposing standardized solutions, a person-centered approach tailors interventions to the individual’s circumstances.

Lived Experience: Peers draw from their own lived experiences with mental health challenges, recovery, and resilience. Their firsthand knowledge allows them to connect with others facing similar struggles and offer meaningful support.

Collaboration and Empowerment: California Peer Watch promotes collaboration between peers, mental health professionals, policymakers, and community members. By working together, they aim to create a more inclusive and effective mental health system. Empowering individuals to actively participate in their own care is a central tenet.

Challenging Top-Down Models: The organization challenges top-down decision-making processes that often exclude the voices of those directly impacted by mental health policies. Instead, they advocate for participatory approaches that involve peers in planning, implementation, and evaluation.

Education and Awareness: California Peer Watch educates the public, policymakers, and mental health professionals about the value of peer support. They raise awareness about the benefits of person-centered care and the role of peers in promoting recovery.

Legislative Advocacy: The organization engages in legislative advocacy to influence mental health policies at the state level. They collaborate with lawmakers, agencies, and stakeholders to shape policies that prioritize individual well-being and autonomy.

In summary, California Peer Watch champions a bottom-up, person-centered approach to mental health, valuing the expertise of those who have walked the path of recovery. Their advocacy contributes to a more compassionate, responsive, and effective mental health system in California.