Faculty Peer Support Program

Sometimes, we all need someone to talk to. As faculty members, we don’t always have easily available people who “get it” to talk with.

Peer support is a vital part of wellness in all settings where stress is part of one’s work. To address this, Claudia Finkelstein is available to provide support and resources. Additionally the college is seeking more peers who can offer colleagues involved in particularly stressful situations, a listening ear and information regarding additional support resources as needed. Click here to apply.

• Peer support offers a safe way for faculty and clinicians impacted by adverse events, medical errors, litigation or other workplace stressors to talk about their experience and emotions with someone who has empathy from having “been there.”
• While we are not “fixing” the person's problems, we offer support as well as strategies which have helped other faculty or clinicians in similar situations. This support can range from one-on-one support to group sessions.
• There is no stressful event too small for peer support. If you wish to speak to a fellow physician supporter please feel free to text Claudia Finkelstein, director of Wellness, Resilience and Vulnerable Populations, at 425-269-6653 or email her at finkel22@msu.edu. Confidential referral of a colleague is also welcome.
• The program is open to all faculty at the College of Human Medicine.
• Peer support is free, private and confidential. It is NOT punitive, regulatory or mandatory. The peer support program is designed to supplement rather than replace existing resources for addressing emergencies such as 911.

Office Hours

• No longer in-person during COVID-19 pandemic
• Zoom appointments also available

Contact

Claudia Finkelstein, MDCM
Director of Wellness, Resilience and Vulnerable Populations
finkel22@msu.edu