Peer International Exchange

 In this episode, we talk with Phillip Stone, a family peer worker from Victoria, Australia. Phillip shares how the whole family approach is shifting mental health services to listen to and include families, and why family peer support is vital for transforming care. 

 Host Dr. Justin Bell speaks with Ehsan Ranjbar, volunteer peer and translator in Iran’s Congress 60 recovery organization. Ehsan shares how Congress 60 blends structured medication tapering with strong community support, and details the organization’s unique peer certification process. The conversation offers a glimpse into a recovery model deeply rooted in cultural values, service, and lived experience. 

Host Dr. Justin Bell speaks with Stéphane Waha, a longtime advocate in Belgium’s peer support movement. From his work integrating peer workers into psychiatric care to advancing policy at the national level, Stéphane shares insights on building legitimacy, sustaining values of lived experience, and navigating the tensions of professionalization.