Greg Banks has always wanted to serve others in his community.
Peer Counselors work with and empower diverse clients to overcome obstacles associated with substance use and other behavioral health disorders. Since completing the Peer Counselor Behavioral Health Apprenticeship program, Greg Banks continues following his dream as a Case Manager Peer Support Specialist at Ideal Option.
Greg brings his own lived experience – both as an abuse survivor and as someone who has battled addiction since the age of 11 years:
“I needed someone in my life that would have been able to sit with me and listen to me. I want to be that ear of understanding, empathy and hope. I saw this as an opportunity to gain more knowledge about mental health and behavioral health so that I can better serve those that are suffering.
The struggles that we have all endured over the years have not overcome us – they make us stronger.”
The Peer Counselor apprenticeship program trains learners to develop peer support skills and competencies and enable clients to live better and healthier lives. A previous boss encouraged Greg to pursue the Peer Counselor behavioral health apprenticeship, and his instructors built his confidence to succeed.
Greg shares an experience that demonstrates the power of an effective support network:
“My car was broken into three times and even stolen once. My sense of security was demolished, and I had a mental breakdown in the middle of class. I leaned on my classmates and my amazing instructor. I got so much support that day that it gave me the strength to move forward.
This, to me, is the epitome of what peer support is all about.”
“We are putting families back together, building sustainable communities, and forging the path for others to follow.
We do thiswithout judgment or condemnation, and with the spirit of love and understanding.
The team of peers that I work with are amazing people who have come through the struggle, and are now living life in healthier ways.
What an amazing assignment this training has afforded!”
Greg has also leveraged additional Training Fund opportunities and supports to attend and participate in regional and national conferences. These experiences have inspired him to work toward becoming a professional advocate for peer support and networks.
“We have the opportunity to hold space for people where they congregate.
We get to see people that society would like to turn a blind eye to, to share our stories of hope and courage, and show others the possibility of recovery.”