Real support from somebody who's been there.

Many of the patterns holding you back were built to help you survive. They kept you alive — respect. But they don't have to run your future. Everything I offer starts there: no judgment, no sugar coating, and a plan you can actually use.

One-on-One Peer Mentorship

For anyone stuck in a cycle and ready to see what's on the other side of it. We dig into the why behind how you move — anger, trust, self-worth, the stuff nobody taught us to name — then build emotional discipline, self-leadership and a direction that's yours. Includes street and gang intervention support for individuals and families who need someone who knows that world from the inside. Weekly or biweekly, in person in the LA area or virtual.

Conflict Mediation and De-Escalation

For families, community groups, organizations and neighborhoods. When tension's rising, somebody has to lower the temperature without choosing a side. I sit with all parties, slow it down and help find the ground people can stand on together. Single sessions, ongoing facilitation, or on-call support for community events.

Life Transitions and Reentry Coaching

For people coming home, changing lanes or starting over. Coming home is a process, not a date. We work on the practical — paperwork, routines, work, resources — and the internal: identity, patience and who you're becoming.

Substance Use Prevention and Recovery Support

For people in recovery, people thinking about it, and the families riding with them. Peer-to-peer support that complements treatment, not replaces it: accountability, structure, and somebody in your corner on the days that test you.

Parenting and Family Reconnection Coaching

For fathers, mothers and families rebuilding trust. The hardest repairs are at home. We work on showing up consistently, communicating without the old scripts, and breaking generational cycles so our kids inherit something better. As a dad, this one's personal.

Peer Trainer Workshops and Certification Prep

For people with lived experience who want to turn it into a career. Your story is a qualification. I help aspiring peer support specialists prep for certification, sharpen their skills and use their lived experience with boundaries and purpose.

Not sure which one fits? That's normal. Reach out and we'll figure it out together. Organizations, schools and agencies: ask me about trainings, workshops and speaking.

Peer support and mentorship are not a substitute for licensed clinical or emergency care. If you're in crisis, call or text 988.

Mike Manzo, facilitating a workshop with therapists to better understand the connections between emotions and choosing violence over peace.
Mike Manzo, facilitating a workshop with therapists to better understand the connections between emotions and choosing violence over peace.