JAMESTOWN – The Mental Health Association in Chautauqua County is staffed by recovery coaches who work in collaboration with local treatment providers, other non-profits, and especially the Jamestown City Treatment Court to help participants be successful in attaining their goals.

Recovery coaches are trained individuals who are recovering from mental health diagnosis and most are recovering from substance abuse.

At the CASAC (Chautauqua Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Council) Recovery Walk in September the MHA’s recovery coaches were recognized for their contribution to the recovery community in Chautauqua County. They and their award were also acknowledged at the MHA’s recent Recovery Luncheon.

The MHA holds monthly Recovery Luncheons to recognize participants for attending support groups, receiving recovery coaching services, gaining employment, advancing through treatment court, and starting college.

A total of 23 participants were recognized for their progress at the recent luncheon. Thirteen participants were acknowledged for advancing a phase at treatment court, eight for gaining employment, and two for graduating from treatment court.

The meal was prepared and served by Charles Hodges and Jim Quattrone of the United Christian Advocacy Network and volunteers Jan Ball and Todd Milspaw.

In addition to one-on-one meetings with recovery coaches, the MHA offers more than two dozen peer support groups. At these weekly meetings men and women come in and talk with others across a wide range of concerns.

All MHA services and programs are offered free of charge.

The Mental Health Association is located in the Gateway Center, 31 Water St., Door #14, Jamestown.

To learn more about the MHA and its many programs, call 661-9044 or visit www.mhachautauqua.org or go to the website: www.facebook.com/MHAChautauqua.