Peer Assistance Services, Inc.

Our leadership and staff work from the core values of grit, integrity, and compassion, and an unwavering dedication to prevent unhealthy substance use, embracing needs of mental health issues, and steadfast support of recovery. Since 1984 Peer Assistance Services has provided evidence-based prevention and early intervention services throughout Colorado. The benefits of prevention and early intervention are not as readily apparent as treating someone already diagnosed with a substance use or mental health disorder. Understandably, the professional focus has traditionally been on the end of the continuum. More than ever, there is a need for awareness of how prevention and early intervention make a difference in individuals' health and wellbeing. Witnessing the lasting effects of the COVID-19 pandemic has made this even more clear.

We are committed to creating positive, lasting change in the lives of Coloradans. Screening for unhealthy substance use as a standard practice is a significant step in bringing that change. Prevention services aimed at supporting and retaining our health and mental health workforce is a benefit to all Colorado communities. Building on our experience, adopting current proven approaches with a dedicated, skilled staff, we continue to shine a light on the benefits of prevention and intervention. Read more about PAS.

SBIRT in Colorado

Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) is an evidence-based practice used to identify, reduce, and prevent substance use before it leads to negative health consequences. The screening model was recommended in 1990 by the Institute of Medicine and the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force in 1996. Peer Assistance Services has provided SBIRT training and support since 2006. The SBIRT in Colorado program promotes prevention and early intervention efforts through in-person, online, and virtual training; technical assistance; and hands-on SBIRT implementation. Our goal is to promote SBIRT as a standard of care throughout Colorado healthcare systems. Learn more about SBIRT in Colorado.

Peer Health Assistance Programs

Peer health assistance programs emerged in the 1980s to enhance public protection by promoting earlier identification and intervention for substance use and mental health concerns to prevent the possibility of unsafe practice. Program services include evaluation, referral, case management, and support for health care professionals with substance use, mental health, and related challenges. Outreach and education for the programs include presentations and promotion throughout Colorado. The program serves addiction counselors, dentists, dental hygienists, direct entry midwives, marriage and family therapists, nurses, professional counselors, psychologists, pharmacists, social workers, unlicensed psychotherapists, and veterinarians, and veterinary technicians. Learn more about the Peer Health Assistance Programs.

“The people at Peer Assistance Services have been invaluable in rehabilitating my weary soul. With time to reflect, I realize this experience has provided me with a wonderful reset opportunity. My priorities are different in both my professional and personal life. I purposely choose to live more simply now. I focus on the things I can control, in small increments of time.... With these practices, I know our current pandemic related fears will resolve and I will still be whole when that time comes.”