Peer Support. Real Hope. Real Change.
Empowering recovery through lived experience and compassion.
Crisis Support
If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 988 for the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. Our peer warmline is available daily from 9am–11pm PT.
Who We Are
The Mental Health & Addiction Association of Oregon (MHAAO) is an inclusive, community-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Our mission is to promote self-directed recovery and wellness for all, honoring the voice of lived experience.
As a peer-run agency, we are the communities we serve; we have been down their roads and use our lived experiences to walk alongside our peers in a nonclinical but therapeutic way. We help individuals set and meet their recovery goals, such as getting into treatment, securing housing, or finding employment, and feel empowered to direct their own path forward to recovery, health, and healing.
Serving 10,000+ Oregonians annually
Powered by 150+ certified peer specialists
Get Help & Find Support
milestone with you.
I Need Peer Support
Connect with someone who understands your journey. Our peer specialists provide compassionate, non-judgmental support.
I Want to Talk to Someone
Speak with a trained peer right now. Our helpline is staffed with caring individuals ready to listen.
Find Local Resources
What is peer support?
Peer Support is a person-to-person approach to recovery, where real people use their experiences to guide and empower others at the start of their journey. It’s about meeting people where they’re at and building the trust and connection that make it easier to face the challenges of recovery. Our Peer Support Specialists are advocates for peers and can help them access the services and resources they need on their road to success. Together, we can build a stronger support network for those in recovery. Donate today to be part of the change.
Training & Education Programs
accredited MHAAO trainings.
PWS TRAINING
December 9–13, Portland
The Peer Wellness Specialist (PWS) training is composed of 80-hours of virtual classroom instruction and some out-of-class assignments.
E-learning Hub
January 14, Virtual
OPTIC launched its eLearning Hub in September of 2020 with some great courses available for continuing education at your own pace.
Peer Pain Training
January 14, Virtual
The Peer Pain Training was developed through funding from the Injury and Violence Prevention Program at Oregon Health Authority.
Upcoming Events & Highlights
PeerZone for Peer Support Specialists
PeerZone for Peer Support Specialists
PeerZone for Peer Support Specialists
Our Blog
accredited MHAAO trainings.
From Displacement to Amazement
This is the story of a mother and son who have discovered a new way to live and a Whole community that supports them. As a recovery mentor and Peer Wellness Specialist, I have the privilege of working with a wide range of individuals seeking services and allowing my...
Top 10 Journaling Prompts for Depression
Finding an outlet to express your overwhelming thoughts can be difficult, but therapeutic journaling can help you healthily express challenging emotions. Journaling can be an easy outlet to help cope with depression and understand it without breaking the bank. Even if...
Running Towards Recovery – Mike’s Recovery Story
I do want to share my recovery story, at least the shorter version. I don't really do it that often because I don't like to toot my own horn. I don't like attention and I don't want to share out of ego. However, I do have a powerful story. I know I have some medals...
Making a Real Difference
6,500+
People Supported Last Year
85%
Report Improved Wellbeing
450+
Certified Peer Specialists
“MHAAO helped me rebuild my life with people who understood. For the first time, I didn’t feel alone in my journey.”
Reduced Hospital Visits
73% reduction in emergency room visits among participants
Increased Engagement
88% report greater engagement in their recovery plan
Stronger Connections
Better Quality of Life
Every contribution matters. Together, we’re building a community where no one faces mental health challenges or addiction alone.
MHAAO is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. All donations are tax-deductible.