Heal TogetHER is a new and accessible community-based model of mental wellness care for Black women in Chicago. The model is an adaptation of the Connect.Talk.Support program developed by Dr. Ruth Verhey in the context of Zimbabwe, South Africa. Heal TogetHER provides support to people who have mild to moderate mental health concerns with brief 1-on-1 emotional support, resource connections, and education about mental health conditions.
Heal TogetHER
Peer support for Black women to be seen, heard, and build authentic connections that empower mental well-being.
Heal TogetHER's Impact
Dr. Marion Malcome, LCSW a Social Work Professor at Loyola University of Chicago has partnered with Sista Afya Community Care to develop the Heal TogetHER mental health peer support model of care for Black women.
Heal TogetHER's impact and effectiveness is backed by community participatory research and evaluation. Below are some of the highlights from Heal TogetHER's impact:
Over 97 Black women in Chicago participated in Heal Together 2024-2025.
-
94% of women rated Heal TogetHER 4 out of 5 stars for overall satisfaction.
-
99% of participants evaluated would recommend Heal TogetHER to other women.
-
72% of women who participated in Heal TogetHER were not actively in mental health treatment.
-
Women reported mental health improvements in social connection, belonging, and emotion regulation as a result of engaging in a peer support session.
"The meeting I had was transformational for me. I can't even believe the 'work' we did in 30 mins has had a better affect than my 6 months in therapy. This kind of support is NEEDED in our community."
- Participant Testimonial
How Heal TogetHER Works
Peer supporters are individuals who offer a compassionate listening ear, emotional support, and brief problem-solving strategies to help people take better care of themselves. Peer supporters can also connect individuals to supportive communities and resources.
A Peer Supporter Can Help You To:
-
Navigate the challenges you're experiencing right now.
-
Talk to someone who cares and is non-judgemental.
-
Learn more about resources that can support your mental wellness.
-
Learn more about mental wellness.
We provide 5 FREE brief 30-minute virtual sessions to offer you the support you need.
Learn more about our peer supporters below and book a session!
Meet the Team
Learn more about our Peer Supporters and schedule a virtual session with them to get emotional support and resource connection.
Meet the amazing women providing compassionate
peer support in Chicago.
Peer Supporter
Corina Alexander
Corina Alexander is a passionate advocate for holistic wellness, with a strong belief in the transformative power of movement for healing. With a background rooted in holistic practices, she champions a comprehensive approach to well-being that encompasses physical, mental, and spiritual aspects. Through her work, Corina inspires others to embrace a pathway to overall health and vitality, fostering a community dedicated to living fully and authentically.
Peer Supporter
Kisha Wilson
Kisha Wilson is a dedicated counselor with a strong commitment to promoting mental wellness, particularly within the African American community. After spending three years serving as a post-secondary counselor, Kisha discovered a deeper passion for mental health advocacy and the transformative power of therapeutic support. This led to the decision to pursue a Master’s in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, where she is currently training to become a certified clinical mental health counselor. Drawing from experience in academic guidance, student support, and community outreach, Kisha brings a compassionate, holistic approach to counseling.
Peer Supporter
Kathleen Sanders
Kathleen ‘Kay’ Sanders is a women’s wellness advocate who has walked her own healing journey, and understands the power of community, connection, and support. With a background in wellness coaching and nonprofit work, she creates safe, empowering spaces for women and girls to strengthen their mental well-being. Through her community wellness programming, she helps participants build confidence, heal, and grow. With years of experience in movement based healing and circle keeping, she is deeply committed to making mental health care accessible especially for women of color seeking whole-person wellness.