BISMARCK – North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) hosted Parent and Caregiver Peer Support Training April 1-3, equipping participants with the skills to provide peer support to parents and caregivers of children with behavioral health needs.

Twenty-three individuals completed the training, marking a significant step forward in expanding peer support services statewide, HHS stated in a news release. This initiative is supported by North Dakota’s System of Care grant. HHS was awarded a federal System of Care Expansion and Sustainability Grant in 2022 to enhance mental health outcomes for children and youth.

As part of this effort, HHS is funding new parent and caregiver peer support specialist positions at its regional Human Service Centers (behavioral health clinics). Additionally, other organizations across the state have hired or are in the process of hiring parent peer supporters.

“Parents and caregivers play a vital role in a child’s behavioral health journey, and peer supports are uniquely qualified to engage and partner with families,” said Katie Houle, clinical administrator, System of Care. “This training is an important step in building a stronger, family-driven system of care across North Dakota.”

HHS anticipates hosting Parent and Caregiver Peer Support trainings in July and October. For more information about future trainings, contact Lead Family Administrator Emilie Bahr at bahremilie@nd.gov.