Training for peer-to-peer support through OSPI Natural Helpers program

WAITSBURG - The Washington Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction selected the Waitsburg School District as one of five to offer the Natural Helpers program. 

The OSPI describes the program as a peer-to-peer support program designed for middle and high school students. Since friends tend to go to friends for support or advice, the program helps students recognize when peers need help, and how and when to connect them with, and how to do so.  

Natural Helpers refer to youth who are seen by their peers as leaders, trusted advisors, and safe confidants. Research by the OSPI has shown that peers often know when their friends are in trouble long before school staff or parents.  

On February 25–27, six adults and 29 students from the Waitsburg School District attended a two-day Natural Helper training at Camp Touchet in Dayton, Wash. The student body selected the cross-section of staff and students through an anonymous survey to identify people they would seek out for advice, assistance, or a sympathetic ear.

Waitsburg School Counselor Rosy Nechodom and teacher Charissa Hodges served as trainers during the Camp Touchet retreat. Marshall Nechodom and paraeducator John Langford assisted as activity leaders.

Training topics included self-care, active listening, building a positive school culture, supporting one another, identifying when someone needs help, problem-solving steps, and when to refer a friend to a professional.

The training focuses on participants learning their limits. It is emphasized constantly that Natural Helpers are not trained to function as counselors or therapists. During the training, students become familiar with appropriate adult referral sources. 

Counselor Nechodom secured the grant that funded the training retreat and future training. She said taking the students off-campus for this type of training helps enhance team and skill building. By participating in the Natural Helper program, she said that not only the trained students but the whole school will benefit. 

"Student mental health isn't the sole responsibility of the school counselor. With this program, other adult advisors and a select group of students are better equipped to offer support or make appropriate referrals to students in need," said Nechodom. "Anywhere, but especially in a small school district, this is a huge blessing.