OUR MISSION STATEMENT
To reduce recidivism by getting those who had/have conflict with the law to think realistically about their behaviours, and attitudes using a basic self-help philosophy in order to change their thinking and make necessary lifestyle changes through positive peer support.
PEERS SUPPORTING PEERS
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Getting assistance from someone who has been through similar experiences as you has tremendous value. At 7th Step, we place emphasis on learning from our members with lived experience.
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New members can use the success of long-standing members as a model for their own journey. Individuals who have had conflict with the law, who have changed their behaviour, are a source of motivation and inspiration for new members!
The Peer Support Team
Steven Deveau
Executive Director
Steven Deveau has been working in the mental health and addiction field for 10 years. He is a certified peer supporter and a certified coach practitioner. His lived experience has driven him to help others in his community through his work and in his daily life.He believes in the power of hope and gratitude to encourage recovery and wellness for people struggling with mental health and addictions.
Marissa Shephard
Youth Program Assistant
Marissa Shephard, originally from Moncton, NB, faced significant challenges growing up in a single-parent household with a mother battling addiction and mental health issues. By her late teens, she found herself entangled in the justice system, serving a 12-year sentence in federal prison for women. However, Marissa transformed her life, overcoming stereotypes and adversity to earn certifications in Facilitation Training, Engagement Training and Peer Mentoring. Currently, she works as a Youth Program Assistant at 7 Steps Nova Scotia and collaborates with other organizations assisting those impacted by the criminal justice system. She leverages her lived experience and Indigenous background to raise awareness about the impacts of childhood trauma and abuse, as well as pathways into the criminal justice system. Marissa is passionate about helping others navigate their challenges and reclaim their lives.
Dominic Thomas
Volunteer Peer Supporter
My name is Dominic Thomas. I am a Peer Support for the 7 Step Society of Nova Scotia. I was born and raised in Dartmouth. I have been in active addiction for 30 years and was incarcerated for the better part of 13 years; I finally decided to pick myself and get the help I needed. I went to the Freedom Foundation of Nova Scotia, a non-profit addiction treatment facility, and was introduced to the 7th Step Society of NS. The support from the staff and all walks of life are beneficial. I want to participate and give back to the community that supported me at my lowest time. The 7th Step Society is the perfect fit for me!
Nancy Everson-Berrigan
Volunteer Peer Supporter
Nancy attended her first 7th Step Society Street Group Meeting in March 2018. It was the best decision she ever made. Since then, she has excelled exceptionally within the society, becoming a core group member, a director on the provincial board, chairperson for the board of directors, peer support worker, peer support coordinator and recently the office manager of the "Pardon Me" 7th Step project. She graduated from MBC with a diploma in Counselling/Social Human Services. 7th Step supports her, without judgment, which allows her to grow strong in her recovery over the past 8 years. She now wants to give back what was freely given to her. She is dedicated to supporting those who have had conflict with the law and those who struggle with addiction. She believes her empathy and lived experience are her best assets to support others. She will be forever grateful to the members of 7th Step!