Support connection. Share lived experience. Help shape a new model of menopause support.
I am currently recruiting peer facilitators with lived experience of menopause to support a virtual peer support program. This role is part of a Research Ethics Board (REB#26-112 Approved) study co-designing a virtual menopause peer support program developed with people who have lived experience of menopause and subject matter expertise.
The program is designed to explore how a structured, virtual peer support model can create meaningful connection, reduce isolation, and support people navigating perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause.
Peer facilitators are central to this work.
Menopause is often experienced in isolation, even though it is a shared life transition for many people. Many individuals do not have access to spaces where they can talk openly, reflect on their experiences, and feel understood.
Peer facilitators play a key role in supporting the creation of these spaces. They help hold a structured, supportive environment where participants can share experiences, learn from one another, and connect across different backgrounds and locations. This is not a clinical role. It is a peer-based, relational role grounded in lived experience.
What peer facilitators will do
Co-facilitate a virtual peer support group.
Support structured, guided group conversations.
Encourage inclusive participation and respectful dialogue.
Help create a safe, supportive, and confidential group environment.
Participate in facilitator training and ongoing debrief sessions with the research team.
Peer facilitators do not:
- Provide medical advice or clinical support
- Act as therapists or counsellors
- Diagnose, interpret, or treat symptoms
Want to become involved?
You may be a good fit for this role if you:
- Have lived experience of menopause, or postmenopause
- Are comfortable participating in virtual group spaces
- Are interested in supporting others through shared experience
- Value listening, reflection, and connection
We welcome facilitators from diverse backgrounds, including rural communities and individuals of different genders and identities (cisgender women, transgender men, non-binary, and gender-diverse people).
All peer facilitators will receive:
- Structured facilitator training prior to the program
- A facilitator guide with weekly session outlines and prompts
- Ongoing support throughout the 12-week pilot program
- Opportunities for reflection and debrief with the research team
This role is designed to be supported. You do not need prior facilitation experience.
Facilitator Training: Approximately 6–8 hours delivered virtually over several sessions.
About the Project
This study is co-designing and testing a virtual menopause peer support program developed with people who have lived experience of menopause and subject matter expertise.
The program includes:
- a structured peer support model
- training for peer facilitators with lived experience
- a pilot group to explore feasibility, acceptability, and impact
The goal is to develop an evidence-informed, inclusive, and adaptable model that can be used in community and health settings.
Principal Investigator
Alyssa Blais, Master’s Student, Applied Health Services Research, Saint Mary’s University Email: alyssa.blais@smu.ca
Faculty Supervisor
Dr. Michele Byers, Faculty of Arts, Women and Gender Studies, Saint Mary’s University Email: michele.byers@smu.ca
