Surviving to Supporting: How Peer Support Changes Everything

In this episode, we explore the many ways peer support groups show up and how it can change everything. Rochelle DeOliveira, Project NICU’s Director of Family Support & Advocacy and founder of Full Circle, joins Kiera Sorrells on their discussion on the power of shared experience, protective boundaries, and the transformation that happens when lived experience becomes leadership. Time Stamps 00.00 Importance of Peer Support in NICU Experiences 05:55 Rochelle’s NICU Journey and Its Impact 11:50 The Need for Connection and Shared Experiences 17:59 The Power of Peer Support Groups 23:59 Understanding the Role of Peer Support in Mental Health 25:15 The Role of Peer Support in Mental Health 26:48 Evolution of Peer Support: From In-Person to Virtual 29:06 Challenges of Virtual Support Groups 31:08 Training Peer Support Groups 37:23 Supporting Mentors: Preventing Burnout 43:33 Establishing Boundaries in Peer Support 49:08 Impact of Peer Support on NICU Parents Resources: Rochelle DeOliveira Project NICU Hand to Hold NICU Parent Network (NPN)