COSP are a model of peer support that are now recognized both nationally and internationally. They are defined by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), Center for Mental Health Services as autonomous programs that are operated and fully controlled by current or former mental health consumers. They emphasize self-help, mutual support, community building and system advocacy.

To be listed as a COSP on the Collaborative website, please provide documentation of the following five standards within your organization:

1. The board or group who decides policies and procedures consists of at least 51% of individuals in mental health recovery.
2. With limited exceptions, staff and volunteers consist of individuals in mental health recovery who are hired by and operate the COSP.
3. Individuals in mental health recovery are responsible for making COSP hiring decisions.
4. Individuals in mental health recovery control the operating budget.
5. Volunteer opportunities for COSP participants may include board and leadership positions, unpaid jobs, and paid staff positions

You may send this documentation to IllinoisPCI@beaconhealthoptions.com.

To find resources on COSP, visit www.samhsa.gov.

 

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National Technical Assistance Centers

The organizations listed on this page are designed to assist consumer run programs to get started and grow.  They are funded by the Center for Mental Health Services (CMHS).  Please select a link below for more information.

• National Mental Health Consumers' Self-Help Clearinghouse
• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Star Center
• National Empowerment Center