Peer Assistance Services, Inc.

Peer Assistance Services, Inc. is a Colorado 501(c)(3) non profit agency leading with prevention and intervention for substance use and mental health concerns. Our values of grit, integrity, and compassion are guideposts for all that we do in the service of our mission. 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 proven approaches with a dedicated, skilled staff, we continue to shine a light on the benefits of prevention and intervention. Our programs include:

Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT)
SBIRT is an evidence-based practice used to identify, reduce, and prevent substance use before it leads to negative health and social 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 self-paced training; technical assistance; and hands-on SBIRT implementation. Our goal is to promote SBIRT as a standard of care throughout Colorado healthcare systems.

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. The program serves addiction counselors, dentists, dental hygienists, direct entry midwives, marriage and family therapists, nurses, professional counselors, psychologists, pharmacists, pharmacy interns, social workers, unlicensed psychotherapists, veterinarians, and veterinary technicians.