What Is Peer Support in the H.E.L.P. Program?

Peer support through the H.E.L.P. Program is a confidential, judgment-free space where pet professionals can talk with someone who truly understands the emotional weight of the job. Whether you’re a groomer, vet tech, trainer, or kennel staff, this work can be physically and emotionally draining—especially when dealing with difficult clients, traumatic situations, or compassion fatigue. Our peer supporters are experienced professionals with training in Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) who have walked in your shoes. They're here to listen, relate, and help you process tough days without pressure or stigma. This isn’t therapy—it’s real talk with someone who gets it. Whether you need to vent after a rough appointment or work through something heavier, H.E.L.P. offers the support you deserve, when you need it most.

How H.E.L.P. and Bishop’s Mission Work Together

The H.E.L.P. Peer Support Program proudly partners with Bishop’s Mission, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to supporting first responders through certified Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) and animal-assisted peer support. Through this collaboration, H.E.L.P. brings seasoned peer support leaders—many of whom are former or current emergency professionals—into the pet care space, offering the same trusted support system to groomers, trainers, vet staff, and other animal care workers. Bishop’s Mission provides the backbone of the peer support network, ensuring all debriefings and check-ins are guided by trained professionals who understand crisis response and the emotional toll of high-stress work. Together, H.E.L.P. and Bishop’s Mission are raising the standard of care for pet professionals—because your wellness matters too. If you would like to learn more or donate to these efforts, visit www.bishopsmission. org