From the Jury Box to a New Calling: Stepping Into Peer Support
Not too long ago, I was sitting in a courtroom waiting through jury selection, expecting a routine day. Instead, I experienced a moment that completely shifted the trajectory of my work and life.
A woman was called up to the jury box. As she was asked about her background and occupation, she introduced herself as a Peer Support Specialist. She explained that her role was to use her own real, lived experience with mental health or substance challenges to walk alongside others on their healing journeys.
Sitting in the gallery, a wave of realization washed over me. I felt a sudden wish that I had known years ago that this path even existed.
For years, I have openly shared my own personal recovery from sugar, ultra-processed foods, alcohol, and depression. But I was almost always doing it through the lens of an instructor or a coach—sitting at the front of the room.
Hearing that woman speak from the jury box made me realize where my true calling lies: not sitting above anyone as an "expert," but standing right beside you as a peer.
A New Chapter as a Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist
That moment in the jury box lit a spark. I pursued formal education through the WISE U training program and completed the state requirements to become a Certified Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist (CMPSS #MPSS-ERVAPS).
What does this mean for this website and our community? The core message hasn't changed—healing, recovery, and wellness are entirely possible. However, you will notice an intentional shift in how we engage with one another here:
From "Expert" to Peer: I am stepping out of the directive role. I am not here to prescribe advice or tell you how you ought to live your life.
Honoring Your Unique Pathway: Recovery is deeply personal. While my personal journey involved total abstinence from sugar, ultra-processed foods, and alcohol, I celebrate and honor whatever stage or pathway of recovery you choose for yourself.
A Space of Mutuality: We are in this together. My role is to share what worked for me, listen deeply to what works for you, and ensure that no one has to walk the path to wellness alone.
Clear Boundaries & Safe Practice
Because this blog is dedicated to ethical peer support practice, you will also notice clear disclaimers across the site. Peer support is a powerful form of mutual connection, but it is not a substitute for clinical therapy, medical treatment, or psychiatric care.
Thank you for being part of this evolution. I am so deeply grateful to share this next chapter with you, and I look forward to walking this path side by side.
With hope and community,
Catherine Best Gordon, CMPSS
Peer Support Scope of Practice: Content on bestgordon.com represents the personal lived experience and peer-to-peer perspective of Catherine Best Gordon, CMPSS. Peer support is a mutual relationship built on shared experience; it is not a substitute for clinical therapy or medical advice. If you or someone you know is in crisis, please call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
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