August 26, 2025
As a peer support specialist at Caring Together, Yvette Thomas brings an empathetic and passionate approach to her role. Her commitment to supporting recovery and her "progress and not perfection” mantra make her a vital asset to the Caring Together team. In the following Q&A, Yvette speaks about her background and offers insight into the role that peer support specialists play in the journey to recovery.
What brought you to Caring Together, and what inspired you to become a peer support specialist?
My background is in customer service. I found myself addicted to alcohol and sought help. After that I decided to pick another field that wouldn’t be as stressful. I was introduced to peer support by my father, who has been a peer specialist for many years.
What does a typical day look like for you in your role?
A typical day includes group facilitation, assisting with the collection of urine drug screening samples, and check-in calls with my participants.
What are some of the most rewarding aspects of your work?
It is rewarding for me when someone I work with makes progress, either in their recovery or mental health. “Progress and not perfection” is a mantra that I live by, and I love it when the clients in my program take positive steps toward a healthier life.
How does Caring Together’s approach to case management and peer support differ from other programs?
In other programs I’ve worked with, peer support specialists were not treated as they are here at Caring Together. We were used as errand-runners and drivers instead of being available for the participants who may have needed peer support.
How do you collaborate with other team members—like case managers, clinicians or medical staff—to support clients holistically?
Collaboration is key here at Caring Together. There are some clients who are more willing to share with a peer than with a therapist. I am able to talk with therapists and case managers about the situations the participants are in and work together with them to help solve those problems.
What kinds of challenges do clients typically face, and how do you help them navigate those challenges?
Clients in our program face several challenges. They have to prevent relapse as well as battle mental health challenges. I help them by providing a listening ear and lived experience.
How do you measure success at Caring Together? What does a “win” look like for you and your clients?
Success here looks like a person who is working toward living a healthier, more fulfilling life. No one is perfect, and we don’t expect perfection. When people find housing, are not using substances for a certain amount of time or find a job, they are celebrated.