Hosted by the Erikson Institute for Education, Research, and Advocacy of the Austen Riggs Center

Peer support serves a vital role in the mental health of college students. Beyond buttressing clinical services and expanding resources to meet unprecedented demand, it can mobilize students’ strengths and foster experiences of community and belonging. However, it also brings challenges, including training, liability, and coordination with counseling and wellness centers. In this conference, we will use presentations on an innovative peer assistance program and small and large group discussions to explore how participants might enhance peer support offerings on their campuses.

Featuring presentations by:
Spencer Biel, PsyD, director of the Online Intensive Outpatient Program for college students and emerging adults in Massachusetts
M. Dolores Cimini, PhD, New York State licensed psychologist and director of the Center for Behavioral Health Promotion and Applied Research at the University at Albany, SUNY
Megan Cusick Brix, PhD, assistant director for Peer Services and a licensed psychologist at University at Albany (UAlbany) Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS).

This conference is for college mental health clinicians and those supporting students’ mental health otherwise. Trainees are encouraged to attend.