Find meaningful connection withpeer support.
What could it mean for you to find meaningful connection? To find strategies to become your best self? To become empowered? We believe that mutual support can help you reclaim your life.
Welcome to Mental Health Empowerment Project (MHEP)
We are a recipient run, not-for-profit corporation organized in 1988 to develop and strengthen self-help and mutual support/recovery activities throughout the United States. MHEP offers dynamic and cutting edge education, training, skill building and support that helps people find their unique voice, connect to their personal power and recognize the power of peer support.
Programs and Services
Training & Technical Assistance Center
MHEP’s Training and Technical Assistance Center provides education, consultation, and skill-building opportunities that strengthen peer support, promote trauma-informed care, and drive recovery-oriented systems change. Our work supports individuals in reclaiming their voice, strengthens the peer workforce, and assists organizations and communities in building inclusive environments where all people can thrive.
Empowerment Exchange
The Empowerment Exchange in Rensselaer County is a peer-run recovery center located in Troy, NY dedicated to offering support, advocacy, and resources for individuals with mental health experiences. Operated by the Mental Health Empowerment Project (MHEP) it helps people reclaim their lives, independence, and personal power.
RISE Center
The RISE Center in Mount Vernon, NY is a Recovery Center that offers various services, including the Peer Bridger program, which supports individuals to transition from inpatient services to community living. The center also provides advocacy, mentoring, and wellness support to help individuals navigate their mental health journey.
Justice-Involved Initatives
MHEP’s Justice-Involved Initiatives provide comprehensive, person-centered support to individuals navigating the criminal justice system, with a focus on recovery, stability, and successful community reintegration. Across Westchester and Rensselaer counties, MHEP offers a range of programs including Lives Forward, Fresh Start, CORE (Community Oriented Re-Entry Program), Probation Support, TACT (Troy Alternative Treatment Court), and Justice-Involved Recovery Coaching.
518 PeerConnect
Our Services in Albany County are designed to encourage people to find their personal power, use their own unique voice and set direction that will help them to achieve their goals and reclaim their lives. Come enjoy our FREE Community barbershop, our Pathways to Wellness Health program, our Peer Support services, and our Community Closet for FREE gently used clothing (donations welcomed!)