Our apprentices say it best!
Greg’s Success Story
Greg Banks has always wanted to serve others in his community. Now that he has completed the Peer Counselor Behavioral Health Apprenticeship program, Greg continues to fulfill this dream as Case Manager Peer Support Specialist at Ideal Option.
Peer Counselors work with and empower diverse clients to overcome obstacles associated with substance use and other behavioral health disorders. Greg brings his own lived experience – both as an abuse survivor and as someone who has battled addiction since the age of 11 years:
“I needed someone in my life that would have been able to sit with me and listen to me. I want to be that ear of understanding, empathy and hope. I saw this as an opportunity to gain more knowledge about mental health and behavioral health so that I can better serve those that are suffering. The struggles that we have all endured over the years have not overcome us, but make us stronger.”
Greg’s previous boss encouraged him to pursue this apprenticeship, and his instructors gave him confidence to believe in himself and succeed. The Peer Counselor apprenticeship program trains learners to develop peer support skills and competencies and enable clients to live better and healthier lives. Greg shares one experience that demonstrates the power of an effective support network:
“My car was broken into three times and stolen once in total. My sense of security was demolished, and I had a mental breakdown in the middle of class. I leaned on my classmates and my amazing instructor. I got so much support that day that it gave me the strength to move forward. This to me is the epitome of what peer support is all about.”
Greg has also leveraged additional Training Fund opportunities to attend and participate in regional and national conferences. These experiences have inspired Greg to aim to become a professional advocate for peer support and networks.
“This part of my journey has allowed me to step into the role as a program manager for a team of peers that bring peer support to individuals and various libraries across King and Pierce County.
We have the opportunity to hold space for people where they congregate. We get to see people that society would like to turn a blind eye to, to share our stories of hope and courage and show others the possibility of recovery.
We are putting families back together, building sustainable communities, and forging the path for others to follow
We do this without judgement or condemnation, but with the spirit of love and understanding.
The team of peers that I work with are amazing people that have come through the struggle and are now living life in healthier ways and I have the privilege to be their leader.
What an amazing assignment that is that this training has afforded.”
