At NAMI Orange County, our mentoring services provide compassionate, one-on-one support for individuals and family members who could use extra encouragement, connection, and guidance throughout the week. Whether you are navigating a mental health diagnosis yourself, supporting a loved one, or simply looking for someone who understands, our mentoring programs offer personalized support rooted in empathy, lived experience, and hope.

 

What Can You Cover With a Mentor?

Each mentoring relationship is personalized to your needs, but common areas of support may include:

  • Emotional support and weekly check-ins

  • Reducing feelings of isolation

  • Goal setting and motivation

  • Stress management and self-care

  • Building confidence and communication skills

  • Navigating resources and community support

  • Strengthening coping skills for day-to-day challenges

Who Is Mentoring For?

Our mentoring services may be a good fit for:

  • Individuals living with a mental health condition

  • Family members or caregivers supporting a loved one

  • Individuals who need a little extra support during the week

  • People looking for encouragement, accountability, or connection

  • Those who would benefit from talking with someone who understands mental health challenges and recovery

Get Matched With A Mentor

Please fill out the interest form below, and our intake coordinator will reach out to you to help match you with the mentoring program and mentor that best suits your needs and circumstances.

One of our mentoring programs is sponsored by CalOptima Health, so we will ask whether you have CalOptima insurance as part of the intake process.

Explore Our Mentoring Programs

NAMI By Your Side

A 12-week one-on-one mentoring program offering encouragement and support from a trained mentor. Meetings are available in person, by Zoom, or phone, and the program is offered in English and Spanish.

Available to CalOptima Health Members.

Peer Connector

A 12-week mentoring program that connects individuals and family members with a trained peer mentor who has lived experience. Support is provided through weekly phone check-ins, offering encouragement, shared understanding, and guidance.

Silver Companions

A 12-week mentoring program for adults aged 50+ that provides connection, companionship, and supportive conversation. Mentors meet weekly in person, by phone, or by Zoom to help reduce isolation and promote emotional wellness.

Disclaimer: For all SMS communications with the NAMI By Your Side Program, please review our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.

Testimonials

“For the first time, I spoke with someone who truly understood what I was going through. My mentor helped me build confidence, set small goals, and believe that recovery was possible. I feel stronger and more capable of managing my life.”
“The mentoring sessions helped me better understand what my family member was experiencing while also teaching me how to take care of myself. I walked away with practical communication skills and a renewed sense of compassion.”
“I didn’t have a diagnosis, but I was struggling with confidence and direction. My mentor helped me identify my strengths, set goals, and develop skills I can use every day. It gave me clarity and motivation.”

Volunteer Opportunities In Mentoring

Want to make a difference in someone’s life? If you are interested in becoming a trained volunteer, we’d love to hear from you. Inquire here to learn more about volunteer opportunities.