518 PeerConnect
518 PeerConnect is the peer support and outreach program of MHEP, designed for individuals who have a mental health-related diagnosis or are dually diagnosed (mental health and substance use). Its services focus on empowerment, connection, and self-directed recovery rather than traditional clinical treatment.
204 Second Street
Albany, NY 12210
Phone: 518-434-1393
Fax: 518-434-3823
What We Offer
Peer support groups at the Mental Health Empowerment Project offer a safe, welcoming space, virtual and in person, where people with lived experience of mental health challenges can connect, share, and grow together. Guided by trained peer facilitators, these groups center empathy, mutual respect, and the belief that everyone’s story matters. Participants are encouraged to speak openly, learn coping strategies, and build meaningful connections without judgement or pressure. By focusing on shared experience rather than diagnosis, our peer support groups help foster confidence, reduce isolation, and empower individuals to take an active role in their own mental health and wellness journey.
One-on-One Peer Support
We use shared experience to create a bond that allows us to help people move forward in all aspects of life. Meetings are held in our office space, on the phone, in the community or in the person’s home. We use the Intentional Peer Support (IPS) method of peer support; developing relationships that are centered around connection, empathy and trust.
Advocacy Services
We offer advocacy and mentoring services that help people learn about and protect their rights with a focus on the individual’s expressed needs, desires and objectives. We also routinely refer people to obtain desired services in all systems.
Creative Community Connections
Through our collaborative community partnerships with businesses, faith-based communities, colleges and other agencies, we encourage people to connect with local resources to develop their personal interests and hobbies, deepen their social connections and cultivate diverse pathways to achieving their goals.
Volunteer Opportunities
Recognizing that volunteering is a valuable way to share experience and skills, remembering that everyone has something to offer others, we offer a range of opportunities to people looking for ways to connect with others in a meaningful way, learn new skills or practice a work experience before seeking employment.
Community Wellness
MHEP 518 Community closet
(Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 9am through 2pm)
Come enjoy our room full of gently used and new clothing from generous local donors. We do ask that you take what you need, not what you want, as we serve a large community. We have some children’s, men’s, and women’s clothes and some odds and ends that you may need for your home.
MHEP 518 Community Barbershop
(Thursdays from 2pm through 7pm)
Come into our barbershop for a free expert haircut, trim, and shave! Our collaboration with QTEES Haircuts & Trims brings their expert services to MHEP on Thursdays from 2pm through 7pm. Come in as soon after 2pm as you can to secure your spot in our popular program! Welcome walk-ins! Check back often for added hours.
Pathways to Wellness
(Tuesdays and Wednesdays, 9am through 2pm)
Pathways to Wellness is a welcoming community program of MHEP, Inc. that helps you understand your health, set personal goals, and connect with resources that fit your life. Run by our in-house RN, our peer-led, non-judgmental space offers one-on-one support to learn your numbers, explore wellness goals like quitting smoking, and get connected to coverage and local care, especially if you’re living with mental health or substance use challenges or have limited income.
Pathways to Wellness offers education and empowerment, not medical treatment. We’re building a supportive, non-judgmental space for you to learn and grow.