Brian Koszala

Brian Koszala is a Certified Peer Specialist with over eight years of experience providing peer support and approximately 10 years of personal recovery from mental health and substance use challenges. He deeply believes in the power of peer support and is committed to meeting people exactly where they are while walking alongside them on their unique journeys of healing, growth, and self-discovery.

Brian believes that we are all here to experience the human experience and that it is okay to ask for help along the way. Drawing from his own lived experience, he shares the tools and practices that have supported his recovery while recognizing that every person's path is unique. He believes in doing things with people rather than for them, empowering individuals to recognize their own strengths and take an active role in their healing and recovery.

Known for his laid-back nature, warm and kind presence, and easygoing personality, Brian strives to create a comfortable and welcoming environment where people feel safe being themselves. He understands that sometimes people do not need solutions—they simply need someone who will listen. He offers a compassionate, nonjudgmental presence and creates space for people to feel heard, seen, and understood. He also advocates alongside individuals, particularly when they feel their voices are not being heard.

Practices that have supported Brian's journey include SMART Recovery®, grounding in nature, meditation, heart-focused breathing through HeartMath®, community connection, and an inner remembering of who he truly is. He is also certified to teach HeartMath® techniques. Brian believes that healing happens through connection, compassion, and remembering who we truly are. His role is not to lead someone else's journey, but to walk alongside individuals as they rediscover their own wisdom, purpose, hope, and capacity for transformation.