This page provides an introductory list of statewide family peer support and peer support resources available to Maryland residents. These services connect individuals, youth, and families with trained peers and specialists who draw on lived experience to offer support, guidance, advocacy, and connection to community resources. This list is not a comprehensive directory; additional county, local, and specialized peer support services may also be available. Where applicable, links are provided for more information or direct connection to services.
Peer Support
Peer Support is delivered services by a person with lived experience of a mental health and/or substance use challenge, who may also identify as a consumer, client, patient, or survivor. Peers share mutual understanding and respect for what it is like to experience emotional distress, while honoring that each person has their own unique and intersectional journey, whether that includes trauma, mental illness, substance use, systems involvement, disability, harm reduction, treatment, recovery, etc.
On Our Own of Maryland, Inc. (OOOMD)
On Our Own is a statewide consumer-run mental health education and advocacy organization. It supports peer-operated wellness and recovery centers and peer support groups, promoting recovery, empowerment, and community involvement for adults with lived experience.
Learn more: onourownmd.org/
Wellness & Recovery Centers
Wellness & Recovery Centers provide free and voluntary recovery support services to anyone who walks in the door needing support. No medical diagnosis, referral, or other criteria is required. Funded by the Maryland Behavioral Health Administration and recognized as part of the continuum of care in the public behavioral health system.
Learn more: onourownmd.org/s/wellness-and-recovery-organizations
Maryland Peer Advisory Council (MPAC)
MPAC is a peer-run advocacy and support organization that advances peer-led recovery support services, workforce education, and policy efforts across the state. MPAC offers peer-to-peer connection opportunities, technical assistance, and a Volunteer Peer Warmline for individuals seeking confidential peer support.
Learn more: marylandpeeradvisorycouncil.org/
Family Peer Support
Family peer support services focus on empowering and informing families caring for loved ones with a mental health, substance use or gambling disorder or co- occurring behavioral health disorders. Families are assisted with understanding and accessing systems, treatment and recovery supports, and providing information about and connection to available resources. Family peer support services are provided family members with lived experience in one or more areas and are generally free of charge.
Parents’ Place of Maryland (PPMD) – Family Support Services
Parents’ Place of Maryland offers family support and navigation assistance for parents and caregivers of children and youth with developmental, emotional, or behavioral health needs. Support includes peer-to-peer assistance, resource guidance, and connection to community services.
Learn more: ppmd.org/
NAMI Maryland Family Support
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Maryland and its affiliates provide peer-led education and support programs for family members and caregivers, including Family-to-Family, Basics, and support groups. These programs are led by trained family members and provide information, strategies, and connection.
Learn more: namimd.org/
Maryland Coalition of Families (MCF)
MCF offers free, one-to-one family peer support for caregivers and family members of individuals with mental health, substance use, or problem gambling challenges. Trained family peer support specialists draw on lived experience to provide emotional support, help families navigate complex systems, connect to resources, and build skills for advocacy and self-care. MCF also offers support groups, workshops, and learning opportunities for families across Maryland.
Learn more: mdcoalition.org/
Note on Availability & Scope
This list highlights key statewide resources and is not exhaustive. Many counties and community partners across Maryland also provide peer support and family peer support services. You can contact 2-1-1 Maryland (dial 211) to find additional peer support options in your area.