Nami-Ventura County

In Our Own Voice (IOOV) is a unique public education program developed by NAMI, in which two trained consumer speakers share compelling personal stories about living with mental illness and achieving recovery. Presenters cover issues they frequently face while living with mental illness as they delve into the following 5 topics: dark days; acceptance; treatment; coping strategies; successes; hopes and dreams.

“Family Support Groups” for caregivers of individuals living with a mental illness, including parents, siblings, spouses, partners, family members or friends. Each group:

These monthly education and advocacy meetings are free and open to anyone interested in learning about mental illness. Guest speakers address a wide range of topics such as: schizophrenia research, new medications, proven rehabilitation approaches, financial planning for families with a disabled member, early diagnosis and intervention, public and other community mental health services, disability benefits, and the role of the arts in the recovery process. Past guest speakers have included psychiatrists, therapists, psych pharmacologists, state and local mental health leaders, etc.

NAMI Family & Friends is a free, 4-hour seminar that informs and supports family members, partners, friends and significant others who have loved ones with a mental health condition. Participants learn about diagnoses, treatment, recovery, communication strategies, crisis preparation and NAMI resources. Seminar leaders are also family members and know what it is like to have a loved one with a mental health condition.