Ask5: Turning Experience into Opportunity: Career Pathways in Peer Support and Human Services with Jermaine Henderson & Bina Aaron

In Ask5: Finding Purpose Through Peer Support, Helping Professions, and Career Growth with Jermaine Henderson and Bina Aaron of Co-Peers, we explore how personal experiences, professional skills, and a passion for helping others can come together to create meaningful career pathways. Jermaine and Bina share insights on supporting individuals and communities through peer-based services and discuss the important role organizations like CoPeers play in expanding access to care, connection, and support.

The conversation highlights the strengths that adult learners and career changers bring to helping professions, including the value of lived experience, transferable skills, and a commitment to lifelong learning. Our guests also share their own career journeys across healthcare, education, mental health, leadership, and community services, offering guidance on recognizing opportunities, building professional networks, and turning experiences into career growth.

Whether you are interested in peer support, mental health, education, wellness, or community-focused careers, this session offers encouragement and practical advice for building a purpose-driven career.

Bios:

Jermaine Henderson serves as the Executive Director of Co-Peers, an organization focused on strengthening communities through peer-based support and connection. In his role, Jermaine works to advance the organization’s mission of empowering individuals and expanding access to meaningful support services.

Bina Aaron is the Regional Director at Co-Peers, a New York-based organization dedicated to providing mental health recovery support through the power of shared experiences. She specializes in expanding access to peer services and leading teams of certified professionals.