Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Who is a peer?

A1: A peer is a person that has lived experience with one or more mental health conditions, including Substance Use Disorder, and is in recovery. A peer recovery coach is someone with lived experience and specialized training who offers resources and support to others with mental health challenges. A peer recovery coach promotes hope, resiliency, and advocates for their peers.

Q2: Who is Peer Recovery Services and what services do they offer?

A2: Peer Recovery Services (PRS) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit that operates The Wellness Center of SJC and Manteca Wellness Center. PRS is a peer-run agency, meaning that it is operated by individuals with lived experience. These services help and support individuals with a mental health diagnosis and/or who self-identify as having lived experience mental health challenges. Our Wellness Centers provide mutual help, shared knowledge, emotional support, and social interaction between those with lived experience. We do this through the recovery model which includes a focus on educating ourselves and creating personal recovery toolboxes. PRS promotes personal growth possibilities. We also assist our members in advocating for themselves within the public mental health system and in their lives.

Q3: Why do we do “peer” work?

A3: Peer-Support focuses on recovery from mental health conditions. Many peers are ‘dually-diagnosed’ meaning they have a substance use disorder coupled with one or more mental health conditions. AA is focused on sobriety from alcohol use -which we support! Recovery support at PRS includes the 8 Dimensions of Wellness Model unlike AA and NA utilizing other types of models.

We offer tools like the Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) [Mary Anne Copeland version] which is a comprehensive and personalized recovery plan. We offer groups and classes which focus on the strengths of individuals as they pursue their goals and stability in their recovery. We support our members so that they have the tools to work on and overcome mental health challenges, including substance use.

Q5: What are the hours of operation for The Wellness Center and Manteca Wellness Center?

A5: The Wellness Center of SJC (in Stockton) is open Monday - Friday 9:00am – 3pm with one-on-one appointments available from 3:00pm - 4pm.

Manteca Wellness Center is open Monday - Thursday 10:30am - 2:30pm. One-on-one appointments are available from 10:00am - 10:30am and 2:30pm - 3pm.

Q6: Where are the Centers located?

A6: The Wellness Center of SJC is located across from University Park (the old State Hospital grounds) in Stockton California. We are at 1109 N California Street on the NW corner of California and Magnolia St. in the brown 2-story building. Parking is available and is free.

Manteca Wellness Center is located in Manteca at: 609 W Center Street. Parking is available on the street.

Q7: How do I receive services?

A7: Walk on in! You will be greeted by friendly staff, volunteers and members. No appointments are necessary. The Wellness Center is a free peer-run program with everything being on a voluntary basis (your own will) and there is no referral needed for services. Walk-ins are welcome or call us at (209) 451-3977 to get information regarding services or call Manteca Wellness Center (209) 707-3767 for their list of services. TWC is funded by San Joaquin County Behavioral Health Services through the Mental Health Services Act. There are no barriers to receiving services. With or without a diagnosis, anyone who wants to improve their mental health (isn’t that everyone on the planet!!?) is welcome. Members are encouraged to develop a personal plan of recovery and Peer Recovery Coaches are here to assist.

Q8: When are the Zoom classes?

A8: PRS offers Zoom peer support groups and classes Monday - Friday at 10:00am; 11:00am and 1:00pm. We also have a guided meditation time at 2:00pm daily. Refer to The Wellness Center tab for groups and classes currently happening on our website!

Q9. Can I get a bus pass and how do I get it?

A9: Bus passes are available on an as needed basis. Speak with a Peer Recovery Coach to explore transportation options and when needed we are happy to assist with one or more bus passes! To receive a pass, a member should be actively working on their recovery and participating in services at The Wellness Center or Manteca Wellness Center.

Q10: How do I become a volunteer?

A10: Do you want to help and make a difference? Ask one of the coaches! There is a training program that includes a 25-hour course provided by The Wellness Center. To qualify to be a volunteer: 1) You must have “lived experience.” 2) Be a member for at least 3 months and want to give back some of what you have received. 3) Have an interest in making a positive change for the battle against stigma. 4) Successfully complete the training program.

Q11: Do we serve food?

A11: Not at this time. However, we do offer ‘food bars’ for those participating in groups and classes in person. And according to Michael (our director), we serve the BEST coffee in the county, state, and world! At no cost. It really is good old fashioned ‘tastes great’ coffee!