The Value of Peer Support Groups

AN INTERVIEW WITH MORGAN K. OVERSTREET, LLPC

OutFront Kalamazoo has been offering peer support groups for youth and adults for nearly 30 years. Peer support, unlike professional counseling, occurs when people with similar life experiences or identities gather to share knowledge, experience, emotional, social or practical help to each other. Many in our community have been experiencing stress or anxiety this year so we asked professional counselor Morgan K. Overstreet, LLPC to share her thoughts on the value of peer support groups.

OFK: Generally speaking, what is the value of peer support groups to LGBTQ+ individuals?

MKO: In a world that often tells us that we cannot or should not be who we are, it is essential that we have people around us who are affirming, validating, and supportive of us standing in our truth. 

OFK: What can individuals expect to experience in a peer support group?

MKO: Peer support groups can provide us with friendships, a sense of community, and even chosen family. Participating in peer support groups allow us to share our experiences and to hear the experiences of others. Often, when we hear that other people have similar thoughts, feelings, and experiences as our own, we’re reminded that we’re human, and therefore not alone. Feeling less alone helps us feel affirmed, and therefore hopeful. Feeling emotionally and socially like others also helps build a sense of belonging. 

OFK: A sense of belonging is important. A peer can provide validation because they have "been there, done that" and can relate to others who are now in a similar situation. Can that make a difference for people?

MKO: It can be life-changing and lifesaving to receive warmth, empathy, and validation from peers – especially at times when we struggle to give it to ourselves. Compassionate statements from others can help us develop positive self-talk. Hearing someone else say “You are wanted,” “Your feelings are valid” or “You deserve to be here,” is affirming; and can help us feel better about ourselves. Frequently, when we feel better about ourselves, we can better support others. In a peer support setting, this positive cycle continues. 

OFK: Over the years we have seen hundreds of individuals, young and old, participate in OutFront’s peer support groups. Our groups for trans youth and adults have become very important. But are peer support groups for everyone?

MKO: If we are without peer support, especially during challenging times, it can be easy for us to feel isolated and hopeless. But despite the healing power of peer support groups, peer support is not a solution for everyone. For example, if you’re struggling with certain mental health concerns, peer support groups can become a place where you consistently compare yourself to others; which can in turn, feed depressive and anxious thoughts. In that case, one-on-one professional support is often more effective. That said, if you’re able to balance the need to compare yourself to others with a healthier perspective, a peer support group can help you face challenges, calm anxiety and learn about yourself and others.

OFK: Any final thoughts you’d like to share?

MKO: If you are not already participating in a peer support group through OutFront Kalamazoo, I strongly encourage you to take that leap.

Check our program calendar for upcoming peer support group activities.