What is WRAP?

WRAP is a structured system designed for "people who have been dealing with a variety of psychiatric symptoms for many years and are working hard to feel better and get on with their lives.  It has eight distinct parts of its program."  Please sign up for WRAP 1 before WRAP 2, etc.  The WRAP program was developed by Mary Ellen Copeland. 

What about Dual Diagnosis?

WRAP also can be useful for those with dual diagnosis (both psychiatric symptoms and substance abuse symptoms).  Many people who struggle with an addiction also have issues with depression or low-self esteem.  By looking at the larger picture and planning a WRAP that addresses both situations, better results are possible.

How much will this cost me?

REACH doesn’t charge peers who want to take a WRAP class.  The sessions are paid for in part by a grant from the State Department of Mental Health, Mental Retardation and Substance Abuse Services.  REACH does charge facilities who want to hire a facilitator to lead sessions at their facility, but only with the understanding that the facility can’t turn around and charge the participants.  

Who is Mary Ellen Copeland?

Mary Ellen Copeland is a mental health recovery educator and author. Her focus is on self-help. She has learned the concepts, skills and strategies she teaches from her own personal experience with extreme mood swings and from her ongoing studies with people who experience psychiatric symptoms. Her teachings and writings include topics like Getting a Sense of Hope, Wellness Tools, Wellness Recovery Action Planning, Relapse Prevention, Crisis Planning, Developing a Strong Support System, Education, Personal Responsibility, Self-Advocacy, Building Self-Esteem, Healing from the Effects of Trauma, and Relieving Loneliness and Worry. Her expertise is not related to psychiatric medications, psychiatry, or legal advocacy. She does not provide counseling services. The skills and strategies she teaches are not necessarily a replacement for other kinds of treatment, but complement any other treatment.

When and Where are WRAP Sessions held?

The Commonwealth of Virginia has seven regions as designated by the Department of Mental Health, Mental Retardation, and Substance Abuse Services.  We have mirrored those regions for the regions of our WRAP sessions. 

How Do I Become a WRAP Facilitator?

WRAP Facilitators Training is required for any peer who wishes to be a facilitator.  In this training, peers learn how to teach the WRAP plan as well as being given skills to lead sessions and help other peers REACH their goal of recovery.  The next Facilitator Training is scheduled for October 21-26 in Richmond .  For more information, or to register for this training, please contact the REACH Office by email, or you may call us.  Contact information is listed throughout the website.

How Can I Get More Information?

For more information about WRAP Sessions in Virginia , please either go to our Locate a WRAP Session page or email us at john@vocalvirginia.org.