THE PORTSMOUTH CENTER
At the heart of Connections Peer Support is The Center. The place where our community gathers to learn, grow, and heal together. It’s a welcoming, peer-run space where recovery happens through connection.
Here, members can take part in free programs that encourage wellness, creativity, advocacy, and skill building, or simply stop in to share a meal, join a conversation, or spend time with peers who understand.
THE CENTER'S PROGRAMS
Beyond structured programs, we offer practical supports that make daily life easier.
At Connections Peer Support, recovery isn’t just possible—it’s something we live and share every day. Our programs are built by and for people with lived experience of mental health challenges, ensuring every offering is authentic, compassionate, and rooted in community.
Whether you’re looking to improve your health, explore creativity, strengthen recovery skills, or find transitional support, we provide spaces where connection leads the way.
Our health and wellness programs nurture both body and mind. Members explore cooking and nutrition, participate in gentle movement classes, and practice mindfulness and stress management techniques. Groups like anger management or seasonal depression support offer tools for navigating life’s challenges in a safe, peer-led setting. Everything is grounded in the idea that small, intentional steps can create lasting wellness.
Recovery flourishes when creativity and confidence are encouraged. That’s why we offer enrichment programs that include art, writing, music, and storytelling groups. Members can also develop practical skills with digital literacy workshops, job readiness training, and financial coaching. Identity-based groups—such as LGBTQ+ support, women’s and men’s groups, and social justice circles—ensure everyone has a place to be seen and supported.
Our recovery and advocacy offerings are about empowerment. From Dual Recovery groups to the Hearing Voices Network, from WRAP planning to Intentional Peer Support, these programs help members build resilience while embracing their identity. Morning meetings bring our community together daily, and peer advocacy training ensures everyone can confidently navigate systems and speak up for their needs.
STEP-UP STEP-DOWN
The Step-Up Step-Down program offers a unique, voluntary residential experience for adults in transition. Whether stepping up into more structured support or stepping down after hospitalization, participants find a safe, peer-run environment to set goals and regain stability. With private rooms, communal spaces, and the flexibility to continue working or studying, SUSD blends structure with independence in a way that supports real-world recovery.
ADDITIONAL SERVICES
Beyond structured programs, we offer practical supports that make daily life easier.
Sometimes you just need someone to talk to—whether you’re having a tough day or want to share something positive.
Our Warm Line provides peer-to-peer connection every evening from 5:00–10:00 PM, staffed by trained peers certified in Peer Support. Call us at 603-427-6966 or 800-809-6262 to connect with someone who understands.
We want to make sure transportation isn’t a barrier to connection. Members can schedule a ride in our 13-passenger van for trips to and from the center, as well as for community outings, volunteer opportunities, shopping, and special events.
To reserve your spot, call 603-427-6966 by 3:00 PM the day before. All rides are provided free of charge.
We welcome family members to learn more about peer support and mental health recovery. At Connections, families can access information on community and statewide resources, discover ways to both give and receive support, and learn how to advocate for improved mental health services in New Hampshire.
Inviting loved ones into the process helps strengthen relationships and builds understanding on the journey of recovery.
WHY OUR PROGRAMS MATTER
Connections Peer Support has been a trusted community resource for over 30 years. Every program reflects our values of hope, choice, empowerment, and community. By becoming a member, you’re not only accessing free, peer-led mental health support—you’re becoming part of a community that believes recovery is stronger together.