Peer Mentoring Preparation, Support, and Connection Model

The Peer Mentoring Preparation, Support, and Connection Model establishes a comprehensive approach for selecting, training, supervising, and supporting birth parent mentors who provide lived-experience guidance and encouragement to participants. Mentors receive structured training in communication skills, boundary management, trauma-informed engagement, active listening, crisis identification, cultural responsiveness, ethics, confidentiality, and support principles.

Participants are matched using experience, demographics, cultural considerations, adoption circumstances, and communication preferences to maximize compatibility and trust. The model includes ongoing supervision, coaching, peer consultation, fidelity monitoring, mentor wellness supports, and clear escalation procedures, ensuring that mentor relationships remain safe, effective, and emotionally supportive while extending connection and recovery beyond formal services.