Vivilynn Amity Weaver

Peer Supervisor/Peer Support Specialist

Hiya, you can call me Viv or Vivi. I have been on the road to self-recovery and constantly working on becoming the best version of myself. I’m actively in therapy. Being neurodivergent and Queer, I’m an advocate for accessibility and inclusion in and out of the 2SLGBTQIA+ communities.   

My lived experience: ADHD, C-PTSD, BPD (Borderline Personality Disorder), Major Depressive Disorder, General Anxiety Disorder, Eating Disorder, Speech Impediment (speech therapy from 2nd to 7th grade), Self-Harm (since I was 8, been in recovery since I was 24), Substance Abuse (weed), Divorce, Parenthood, Emotional Neglect, Very Queer (Lesbian, Transgender, Demisexual).

I am an elder emo witch, music is my safe space, and I make playlists depending on my moods. I have fun dabbling in witchcraft and tarot as tools of self-reflection. I am a mom of a wonderful 9-year-old. I have always been described as easy to open up to; I enjoy being that space for someone to vent and feel comforted and validated in those moments. 

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Bloodworks 101 Podcast on Spotify

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Certifications: HVN (Hearing Voices Network) Facilitator Certified, PSS (Peer Support Specialist), Alt2Suicide Facilitator Certified ​

Irene Launder

Peer Outreach Specialist

Hello. My name is Irene and I am excited to be here. I have been through my own journey with mental health challenges and have been on the long road to recovery and healing. I am passionate about Mental Wellness and Neurodiversity. 

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My lived experience includes navigating ADHD, Anxiety, Depression, and C-PTSD. I was raised in a low-income household with both parents navigating their own complex mental health diagnoses and intellectual disability related support needs. I am a survivor of childhood abuse and neglect, and working through the aftermath of familial dysfunction. I identify as queer (Bisexual and Demisexual).

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Currently I am enrolled in grad school at PSU and working towards my Master of Social Work (MSW) degree. I have two cats and a long-term partner I adore. My self-care includes creative hobbies such as watercolor, needle felting, candle making, and cooking. I create safe space for others with an open mind and open heart. I am always here to listen and explore together what is possible in recovery. 

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Manzie Butler

Senior Program Manager, Peer Services

I am a person in long-term recovery from both substance use and mental wellness challenges. I moved from Oakland, CA to Portland where I have found my way to working as a Peer Specialist. I now view my hardships in life only work as assets.

I come with a mixed background - from working with underserved inner-city communities to being a Montessori Toddler Teacher! I just enjoy working with people :)

My lived experience: I identify as someone in recovery from both mental wellness and substance use challenges. I am a survivor of domestic violence, childhood abuse, neglect, and self-harm. I am a person with body dysmorphic disorder, eating disorders, major depressive disorder, anxiety, PTSD, and borderline personality disorder. 

I find balance outside of work hours with my passion for photography as well as collaborating with her boyfriend to throw community events.

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I support with many programs across New Narrative, with my primary mission being integrating peers within mental health settings.​