Business Details
38 Years
experience
Empowering Mental Health Recovery Through Peer Support
Since 1988, we have dedicated ourselves to promoting recovery and community through peer support, education, and advocacy for mental health consumers in Tennessee. As the state's only statewide organization owned and operated by individuals in recovery from mental health or addiction challenges, we bring over three decades of experience to our mission. Our work began with grassroots advocacy and has evolved into a comprehensive approach that includes evidence-based programs like BRIDGES, which has served thousands since its inception. Through partnerships with federal and state agencies, managed care organizations, and private donors, we provide critical services across Tennessee, including peer support, crisis stabilization, employment assistance, and advocacy. Our diversified funding model enables us to maintain independence while addressing complex needs. We pioneered the PeerLINK program, which reduced hospitalization days by 73.2% in pilot studies, and continue to innovate through initiatives like our high-tech training center and regional peer centers.Our team includes certified peer specialists who share lived experience, ensuring our services remain grounded in real-world recovery journeys. We hold leadership roles in state mental health planning and have influenced policy through collaborations with agencies like the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services. Our 35-year legacy reflects unwavering commitment to empowering individuals through education, independence, and community integration.
Services
PeerLINK
Peer Intensive Care Services
Peer Center
Individual Placement Support
BRIDGES Program
Crisis Stabilization
Employment Services
Advocacy Programs
Recovery Training
Community Integration
Details
- Year established: 1988
Highlights and features
- We are Tennessee's only statewide mental health organization led by individuals in recovery
- 35+ years of experience developing evidence-based programs like BRIDGES and PeerLINK
- Diversified funding model ensures service accessibility across public and private sectors
- Certified peer specialists provide support grounded in lived experience
- Pioneered crisis stabilization programs reducing hospitalization days by 73.2%
Services
PeerLINK
Our PeerLINK program connects individuals with certified peer specialists who share lived experience with mental health challenges. This evidence-based initiative provides personalized recovery support through one-on-one mentoring and group sessions. Participants gain practical tools for managing their mental health while building supportive community connections that promote long-term recovery.
BRIDGES Program
BRIDGES offers structured educational courses designed to help individuals rebuild their lives after mental health challenges. The curriculum focuses on personal goal setting, coping strategies, and community integration techniques. Developed by peers and now adopted internationally, this program has transformed thousands of lives through its practical, experience-based approach to recovery.
Crisis Stabilization
Our crisis stabilization services provide immediate support for individuals experiencing acute mental health episodes. Through partnerships with regional hospitals and clinics, we offer peer-led interventions that reduce hospitalization needs. The program emphasizes rapid recovery and connection to ongoing community support resources.
Individual Placement Support
IPS Employment Services help individuals achieve meaningful employment goals through personalized job placement assistance. Certified specialists work one-on-one with participants to identify strengths and match them with appropriate opportunities. The program includes ongoing support to ensure long-term workplace success and financial independence.
Advocacy Programs
We advocate for mental health policy improvements at state and local levels through formal programs and grassroots initiatives. Our advocacy efforts focus on expanding access to services, protecting consumer rights, and promoting community integration. We collaborate with government agencies and healthcare providers to shape systemic improvements in mental health care delivery.
Questions
What makes TMHCA unique among mental health organizations?
We are Tennessee's only statewide mental health organization led by individuals with lived experience of mental health challenges, ensuring our programs remain grounded in real-world recovery needs.
How does TMHCA fund its services?
We maintain diversified funding through state and federal contracts, managed care partnerships, and private donations, allowing us to serve thousands annually while maintaining program independence.
What evidence-based programs do you offer?
Our BRIDGES program has served thousands since 1999, while PeerLINK reduces hospitalization days by 73.2%. Both evidence-based models have been adopted internationally.
How can someone access your services?
Services are available through our eight regional offices across Tennessee. Contact our Nashville headquarters or local centers in Columbia, Memphis, Chattanooga, and other locations for assistance.
What employment support options exist?
IPS Employment Services provide personalized job placement assistance and workplace support across Middle and Upper Cumberland counties, helping individuals achieve financial independence through meaningful employment.
How has TMHCA evolved since 1988?
We've grown from grassroots advocacy to operating eight locations statewide, developing national award-winning programs, and becoming Tennessee's primary provider of peer support services within TennCare.
Reviews (1)
Emily Morris
Nov 11, 2020
Report
I have spent the past few days reading the numerous appalling accounts of previous employees. I am now a former employee and feel an obligation to let the public know how truly unethical this place is. The upper management Is the worst Ive ever seen - unprofessional, incompetent, and corrupt on a profound level. Tennessee needs a consumer and peer run organization, but thIs place should be shut down. The management claims to care about their members and employees on the surface, but when you work there, you see how their actions consistently contradict these claims. So I would strongly encourage
