3B: Peer Partnerships: Using Lived Experience in Diverse Settings

This panel will highlight peers using their lived experience in diverse settings.

Learning Objectives:
Participants will:

  1. Name three ways peer specialists can use their lived experience to support people in recovery;
  2. Describe two ways to share lived experience while strengthening community partnerships;
  3. Identify two ways peers can use lived experience to connect with people from different backgrounds or communities.

Headshot of Courtney Hammond

Courtney Hammond, PCI
Behavioral Health Coordinator, University of Iowa

Courtney Hammond is a Behavioral Health Coordinator and dedicated peer support professional with over five years of experience supporting individuals in recovery and navigating complex life challenges. Living in long-term recovery for the past six years, she brings both professional expertise and lived experience to her work. Courtney is passionate about advocacy, building meaningful connections, and creating safe, supportive spaces that empower others to move forward with confidence and stability.



Headshot of Tracy Gryp

Tracy Gryp, RCP, RCPF
Director of Corrections Recovery Program, Full Circle Recovery

Tracy is a recovery professional with lived experience in both addiction and incarceration. She is the creator of the Corrections Recovery Coaching Program (CRCP) through Full Circle Recovery, where she provides peer support in correctional settings. She is also involved in efforts to expand and strengthen the role of peer support, including training, collaboration, and advocacy within correctional systems.





Headshot of Amber Sheppard

Amber Sheppard, Peer Recovery Specialist
Programs Coordinator/ Peer Recovery Specialist, CRUSH Recovery Community Center

Amber Sheppard is a Peer Recovery Specialist and Program Coordinator at CRUSH (Community Resources United to Spread Hope) Recovery Community Center in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. A mother in long-term recovery, Amber brings both professional training and powerful lived experience to her work supporting individuals and families impacted by substance use. After years marked by addiction and incarceration, she rebuilt her life—going from prison walls to building a home and a future for her children. Today, Amber is passionate about using her story to inspire hope and show that recovery and redemption are possible.



Jason LaRoche, Certified Peer Support Specialist, BA Psychology
Lead Crisis Response Peer Support Specialist, Heartland Family Service

Bio: Jason is part of Heartland Family Service’s Mobile Crisis Response team. They respond in-person to mental health crises in Southeast Iowa. When he is not working, he is watching a streaming service or at the rock-climbing gym.