This Deaf-led workshop introduces interpreters to culturally aligned ASL approaches for Substance Use Disorder (SUD) terms, Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) language, and Dual Diagnosis concepts. Many clinical and peer-support terms do not directly match ASL, so this training focuses on clear, respectful conceptual interpretation. Participants will learn Deaf-centered approaches to recovery vocabulary, stigma reduction, trauma-informed practice, and CPS values such as empowerment and mutuality. Skills gained will strengthen communication access and support positive ripple effects across Deaf recovery communities.

Educational Objectives

At the conclusion of this workshop, participants will be able to:

• Identify accurate ASL concepts for SUD, CPS, and Dual Diagnosis vocabulary.

• Apply Deaf-centered, trauma-informed strategies when interpreting recovery and mental health content.

• Preserve CPS and in recovery values (empowerment, mutuality, lived experience) in interpretation.

• Recognize barriers caused by stigma, audism, and language deprivation.

• Demonstrate improved readiness to support Deaf individuals in treatment and peer-support settings.

Presenters: Melissa Felts, Laura Peters, Kyla Pierlioni

Melissa became profoundly deaf at 8 months old and has since shown resilience and dedication in everything she does. As of July 2024, she is a Certified Peer Support Specialist, having been in recovery from opioid addiction for 8 years. Melissa has emerged as a leader in the Deaf community, hosting the first-ever AA/NA meetings using American Sign Language in Western North Carolina. She is also a committed Support Service Provider (SSP)/Driver for individuals who are DeafBlind, ensuring they have the support they need. Melissa enjoys volunteering in her community and has a big heart for helping others, drawing from her own lived experiences to make a positive impact. She is a valued member of the local thriving Deaf community committed to creating safe space for people to gather and socialize by organizing a monthly ASL coffee chat. Melissa is also an avid animal lover.

Laura holds two Massachusetts certifications; Certified Addiction Recovery Coach and Certified Peer Specialist. She is currently under contract with the MCDHH Deaf Recovery Coach Program and has been actively providing recovery coaching support for seven years. As a Deaf Recovery Coach, Laura provides recovery support to those who struggle with addiction to drugs, alcohol, and their mental wellness. This level of direct support is for Deaf/deaf, Hard of Hearing and Deaf Blind individuals, as well as family members who also struggle with substance use and mental wellness. She has taken and participated in several statewide community forums and events. She has taken training under M.O.A.R (Massachusetts Organization for Addiction Recovery) and is involved in “The Parent Project” which supports individuals that have an active case with the Department of Children and Families (DCF).

Laura is a proud mother to four biracial Deaf/Coda children and is a woman in dual recovery. She shares many aspects of her recovery from her lived experience. She loves to explore and learn new approaches so she can continue to be a strong advocate or “voice” for those who struggle and experience stigma and trauma. Laura has a vision to create a sustainable and accessible recovery community that will foster growth and a richness of life through multiple pathways of recovery.

Kyla has worked in dual recovery for over twenty years. She is a Certified Addiction Recovery Coach and advocate. She combines her professional expertise and lived experience in presentations to the interpreting community. Her goal is to raise awareness of dual recovery from substance use and mental health with the dream of creating a Deaf dual recovery program. Kyla has nearly completed the coursework and is on her way to becoming a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor. In addition to work life, she is a huge animal lover.