Chad Standing Next To White Fiat Abarth Car

Hi, I'm Chad,

I started Momentum Peer Support because I know what it’s like to feel stuck, to want to move forward but not know how. My journey has been shaped by experiences with generational trauma, ADHD, PTSD, OCD, depression, anxiety, and disordered eating. For a long time, I thought these struggles made me weak or broken. Over time, I realized they’re actually the foundation of my strength and compassion. They’ve given me insight, empathy, and a deep understanding of what it means to fight for healing, even on the hardest days.

Peer support, to me, is about connection. One human being walking beside another, not as a professional or an expert, but as someone who truly gets it. Momentum is about progress, no matter how small. It’s about breaking barriers, rebuilding trust in yourself, and knowing that even when life feels heavy, you don’t have to carry it alone. Together, we build momentum, one honest conversation at a time.

Chad, standing on a hill, overlooking trees

I was born and raised in Neillsville, Wisconsin. As the youngest in a blended family, I had the unique experience of growing up surrounded by people, yet often feeling like an only child. When my parents divorced, that feeling only grew stronger. Splitting my time between two homes left me feeling like I didn’t truly belong in either one.

Growing up, I was often the target of bullying and abuse. With emotionally distant parents and no real support system, I never learned the healthy coping skills I needed to navigate life’s challenges. The neglect I experienced also meant that my mental health struggles went unnoticed and untreated for years. Like those around me, I learned to ignore my own needs and hide my pain.

I’ve lived through many experiences that have shaped who I am today, from growing up gay in a small rural town, surviving emotional trauma, neglect, and abuse, losing my brother to addiction, enduring an abusive relationship, and even experiencing harm from within the mental health system itself. Mental health struggles run deep in my family, and I’ve lost loved ones on both sides to suicide. For most of my life, I’ve lived with anxiety, depression, PTSD, and OCD.

Chad, standing next to red structure

Over time, I realized that healing meant breaking the cycle of neglect, learning to care for myself in ways I was never taught. Recovery has allowed me to rediscover who I am and what brings me joy. These days, I find peace in nature and photography. When I need to recharge, you can find me hiking trails, sitting in a local coffee shop, or exploring antique stores for vintage cameras. I also enjoy working on my car; it’s another way to feel grounded and in control.

My experiences have taught me that mental health recovery is not one-size-fits-all; it’s personal, complex, and unique to each individual. Through Momentum Peer Support, I hope to use my story to help others grow into the people they want to become, on their own terms and in their own time.

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Trauma-Informed

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Recovery-Oriented

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Judgment-Free

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LGBTQIA+

I've been there too

The challenges I have faced over the years as I have learned more about my mental health:

  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • PTSD
  • OCD
  • Developmental Trauma
  • Neglect
  • ADHD
  • Body Image Challenges
  • Disordered Eating
  • Loss and Grief
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What is Peer Support?

Lived Experience

Understanding from someone who's walked a similar path creates trust and authenticity.

Hope & Inspiration

Seeing recovery in action can spark belief that change is possible.

Non-Clinical Support

Guidance and practical strategies based on what works in real life, not diagnoses.

Empowerment

You're the expert on your life. I help you tap into strengths and resilience.

Whole-Person Approach

Focus on values, goals, and a meaningful life, not just symptoms.

Community Connection

Navigate resources and build a support network that fits you.

Got Questions?

I meet you where you are—emotionally, practically, and at your pace. Peer support is voluntary and you’re in control. I draw on my lived experience to listen without judgment, reflect options, and support the next small step that feels right to you.

If you want someone to listen deeply, bounce ideas around, and hold space with acceptance, peer support could be a strong fit.

I don’t diagnose or provide therapy; we focus on your goals, strengths, and momentum.

I don’t bill private insurance at this time. In Wisconsin, most private plans don’t currently cover Peer Support/ISDE, though benefits can vary by plan. If you’re connected to a county program (for example, CCS), peer support may be available through that program. You can also ask your insurer whether they offer any out-of-network reimbursement for peer services.

Yes, private pay is available. Sessions are a flat $30/hour. I offer in-person and remote sessions. 

Availability varies by county and may be limited. Share your location when you reach out and I'll confirm options, or, if I'm not available in your area, I can suggest alternatives.

I’m actively establishing county partnerships across Wisconsin, and availability expands as contracts are finalized.

If you’re enrolled in a county program (e.g., CCS), ask your Service Facilitator/care coordinator to start the referral process for Momentum Peer Support.

If you’re not in a county program, private pay may be available. Availability varies by county and may be limited, share your location when you reach out and I’ll confirm options or suggest alternatives.

Our first meeting is short and low-pressure, usually under an hour. It’s a chance for us to meet, get a feel for each other, and see if peer support feels helpful. We can meet in person or remotely.

What we’ll cover (light + simple):

What brings you here and what you’d like more of/less of.

Your goals and needs, in your own words and at your pace.

What peer support looks like with me (lived experience, how we’ll work together, what it isn’t).

Preferences & logistics: how often, where/how we meet, and any boundaries you want me to know.

What it’s not: a clinical assessment, diagnosis, or crisis response.

Yes. Peer support can complement therapy. For example, practicing skills between sessions, values-guided routines, and gentle accountability. I don’t provide therapy, but I can support what you’re working on.

Get In Touch

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