ASCENDS’ Certified Peer Support staff meet often for classroom instruction and support groups that offer emotional support and teach social skills.  Our goal is to help increase our client’s feelings of self-worth, decrease social isolation and encourage independent living. 

Codependency

 Psychology Today: Codependency is a dysfunctional relationship dynamic in which one person assumes the role of “the giver,” sacrificing their own needs and well-being for the sake of the other, “the taker.” The bond in question doesn’t have to be romantic; it can occur just as easily between parents and children, friends, and family members.

The term “codependency” first appeared in substance abuse circles to describe a lopsided relationship that has been consumed and controlled by one person’s addiction. It grew in popularity and became shorthand for any enabling relationship. Codependency is not a clinical diagnosis.

ASCEND’S Peer Facilitators will explain what codependency means and how to overcome codependency using evidence-based best practices.
Emotional Abuse

Recovering from emotional abuse

Long-term effects of emotional abuse can significantly affect mental and physical health and also in relationships. Emotional abuse can result in anxiety, depression, and shame. It can also lead to post-emotional or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTS) (PTS). The symptoms of PTSD from emotional abuse can cause flashbacks, nightmares, or cause severe anxiety. It is essential to seek help if you or someone you know is experiencing the long-term effects of emotional abuse.

ASCEND’S weekly topics are designed to provide coping skills to initiate healing from emotional abuse, which, although difficult, is attainable with time, patience, and support. The process begins with acknowledging the abuse and accepting it wasn’t your fault. Therapy, coping mechanisms, and self-esteem building are valuable tools. Self-care, a supportive network, and self-love are all critical aspects of the healing journey, ultimately allowing for a fulfilling life.

Grief Group

Grief is the emotional response to loss, such as the death of a loved one, a divorce, or a serious illness. It can also be caused by losing a job, a home, or a dream.

Symptoms include intense sadness, shock and numbness, denial and anger, and guilt.
Physical effects
Increased inflammation, joint pain, headaches, digestive problems, Low immunity, cardiovascular issues, and difficulty sleeping.

ASCEND’s peers are dedicated to supporting you through the grieving process, recognizing that everyone experiences loss in their lifetime. It’s important to make wise choices during this time, such as taking care of yourself by exercising, eating healthily, and ensuring adequate sleep. Engaging with caring friends, avoiding major life changes, and joining a grief support group—whether in-person or online—can be incredibly beneficial. Additionally, seeking professional support and consulting with your doctor as needed will aid in your recovery. Most importantly, remember to be patient with yourself as you navigate your grief.

LGBTQIA+

Our LGBTQIA+ group can help someone dealing with issues anywhere along a continuum – from the point where they are questioning their sexuality through dealing with the challenges of possibly coming out at work or struggling with gay relationship issues. We do this through peer support.

This means that support groups are led by other LGBTQIA+ people. This allows LGBTQIA+ community to support each other through life’s challenges.

 Peer Support Group

ASCEND’S Peer support groups leverage shared experiences to foster mutual understanding and acceptance, offering knowledge, emotional support, and practical assistance. They operate through peer support workers—individuals with lived experience—or mutual support, where everyone’s experiences are valued equally. This shared understanding helps individuals develop self-empowerment strategies and can improve well-being, self-esteem, and social skills, potentially reducing hospital stays and expanding support networks. Peer support can manifest in group settings or one-on-one interactions, encompassing a range of supportive actions.

Classroom Etiquette Form

Anyone wishing to attend one of our classes or support groups, must agree to our community rules by simply filling out this convenient online form

What are people saying about us? 

Julie Ann – The staff, environment and classes are exceptional. Personalized care and the ability to be able to talk to anyone when needed, along with incredible food truly helped.

Express D – Such a nice little piece of serenity! The people are amazing here very personable, relatable and kind. The time spent here was amazing and very telling. Had the best time reflecting and being in a safe place.