Agencies
A trauma informed intentional peer support program, MHPC is a recipient run organization and most of the staff have a mental illness.

Our Vision
A peer-led organization facilitating community-based options for behavioral health recovery.
Our Mission
Mental Health PEER Connection is an organization run for and by people with behavioral health disabilities, providing a person-centered approach to advocacy, peer counseling, transitional services, IL skill building, information and referral, and employment supports. MHPC fosters meaningful connections to enhance the quality of life for residents of Erie County.
MHPC is funded by the Erie County Department of Mental Health (ECDMH); Office of Mental Health (OMH); Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services (OASAS); Crisis Services; Millennium Collaborative Care; and various managed care organizations.
Affiliated satellite offices include the Buffalo Psychiatric Center, Erie County Medical Center (ECMC), Mental Health Court and Crisis Services. Additionally, MHPC provides services at the Renewal Center, Living Opportunities of DePaul; Erie County Re Entry Program; soup kitchens; homeless shelters; and the Erie County Public Library.
MHPC
- Works with New York State Parole and Correctional facilities.
- Assists in helping parents with psychiatric disabilities keep custody of their children.
- Two-thirds of Peers are NYS certified Peers.
- Benefits Advisor certified through Cornell University.
- OMH Safety Training Provider.
MHPC is a member of the New York Association of Psychiatric Rehabilitation Services, Inc. (NYAPRS); NYS Behavioral Health Advisory Council; NYS Peer Certification Board; serves on Board of Directors of NYAPRS; Mental Health Empowerment Project (MHEP); Restoration Society, Inc.
Ways We Can Help
Peer Support
Consider the story of a 22-year-old female consumer who was dropped off at the Renewal Center in a manic state feeling paranoid that her boyfriend was following her. She desired to stay at the Renewal Center, but as a 12-hour-per-day walk-in facility, that option was not available. A MHPC Peer Specialist provided options like The Refreshing Waters or staying with a family member, neither of which were appropriate options for her due to her mental state and inability to travel alone. After considering her options, she willingly made the choice to go to the hospital. A few days later, when her mental health crisis subsided and she was stable, she returned to the Renewal Center to thank staff for supporting her during her time of need.
Our Programs and Services
Exclusive Programs Offered by Mental Health Peer Connection
Wellness Recovery Action Plans
MHPC offers Wellness Recovery Action Plans (WRAP), a unique development toolbox for every individual designed to prevent unforeseen crises and challenges in life. WRAP was developed by Mary Ellen Copeland of the Copeland Center.
Upcoming Events
We’re Here to Help You.
For feedback, questions or concerns, please call 716-836-0822 or click the link below for more assistance.
Location
Independent Living Center of Erie County
3108 Main Street
Buffalo, New York 14214
Phone: 716-836-0822
The Center is near the LaSalle Subway Station, two blocks from the University at Buffalo, South Campus.