Due June 30: Applications for SMC BHRS Lived Experience Academy 2024

May Mental Health Month Planning Committee Members,

For those of you who already know what the Lived Experience Academy (LEA) is: applications for the summer academy are open and candidates can apply HERE. Please promote among your networks with clients and family members. Flyer attached. Thank you.

For the rest of you, please read on…

The LEA (Lived Experience Academy) is for individuals with lived experience as consumers of behavioral health services, as well as their close relatives or loved ones. It aims to empower and inspire participants by leveraging the power and wisdom of their lived experiences to create positive change for themselves, their communities, and the BHRS (Behavioral Health and Recovery Services) system.

During the LEA, participants learn skills to share their stories and advocate for positive change. No prior writing or public speaking experience is needed; we provide teaching and support at every step. However, participants must attend the classes, stay attentive, and complete 30 to 60 minutes of homework per week, which includes writing assignments. They should be prepared for a journey of self-discovery that may evoke challenging memories and feelings but will ultimately be rewarding and edifying.

The LEA is a collaborative experience where participants and facilitators—who also have lived experience—support one another. This is not a solo journey; it requires being part of a supportive peer group. Because the LEA is not a clinical or support group, it is intended for individuals who are in a stable place in their recovery (not in crisis or high stress). Participants should be committed to attending all classes and completing all homework, and they should be eager to learn to tell their life stories.

 

The LEA will be both virtual and in-person: Virtually on Zoom the first four sessions, and in-person (in San Mateo) the last two sessions.

Dates: Six consecutive Thursdays: Virtually on July 11, 18, 25 and August 1. And in-person at 2000 Alameda de las Pulgas, San Mateo, on August 8 and 15, 2024.

Time: 4:00 to 6:00 PM

To apply: complete the online application HERE.

 Deadline to apply:  Sunday June 30th.

For more information: Contact Jairo at (650) 573 2890 jwilches@smcgov.org   

 

Thank you for your support promoting among anyone you know with lived experience as a behavioral health client and family member.

Sylvia, Kristie, and Maria

• LEA Summer 2024 Application - FINAL.pdf