Farrell W. Hurt, P.S.S.

Farrell Hurt is an Adult Peer Support Specialist at The Oaks.  He started receiving services at The Oaks Behavioral Health as a client just over two years ago.  After he reached a successful level of recovery, he completed the Peer Support Specialist training and obtained his PSS certification in June 2021.  Farrell was The Oaks’ first PSS and will play an integral role in the growth and development of the PSS program.   Farrell leads a team of amazing peer support staff, including adult and youth specialists.

Farrell has an unmatched passion for helping others who are struggling with mental health challenges.  Recently making a remarkable recovery himself, he states “I went from being a victim to a survivor”.  He states that his newfound purpose is to demonstrate, through his own life, that recovery is possible.  Farrell exudes a positive energy that is simply contagious and he is an inspiration to his colleagues and clients. 

“You may wonder what a Peer Support Specialist is.  A Peer Support Specialist is a person with “lived experience” who has been trained to support those who struggle with mental health, psychological trauma, or substance use. Their personal experience with these challenges provide Peer Support Specialists with expertise that professional training cannot replicate.  When I was at my worst, I found a team who never gave up on me and wouldn’t allow me to give up on myself.  Now, I’m able to be that person for others in my role as a Peer Support Specialist.”

Farrell leads a team of amazing peer support staff, including adult and youth specialists.