Anthony Kohl, the senior peer coordinator at the Bronx-based addiction treatment center VIP Community Services, has been named the Peer Specialist of the Year Award by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing.
A New York State Certified Peer, Kohl brings more than a decade of experience supporting individuals on their paths to recovery, drawing from his own lived experience with addiction. He holds multiple credentials, including Recovery Coach, Certified Recovery Peer Advocate (CRPA), and OMH Certified Peer Specialist. Notably, Kohl was the first person in New York State to serve as a Veterans Supported Recovery (VSR) Peer.
“It is an honor to be recognized by the National Council for Mental Wellbeing,” Kohl said. “This award is a reflection of the power of peer support and the importance of lived experience in the recovery process. I am proud to contribute to the work we do at VIP Community Services and grateful for the opportunity to support individuals on their journey toward healing and stability.”
The Peer Specialist of the Year Award honors individuals with lived experience who provide critical support to those facing mental health and substance use challenges. Awardees like Kohl are recognized for their outstanding dedication, empathy, and meaningful contributions to the recovery community.
“Anthony Kohl represents the core of peer support—compassion, resilience, acceptance and empowerment,” VIP Community Services President and CEO Debbian Fletcher-Blake said. “His unwavering dedication and powerful use of lived experience to connect with others exemplify the heart of our mission. We are immensely proud of Anthony and thrilled to see him recognized nationally for the profound impact he makes every day.”
Kohl is one of two recipients of this year’s Peer Specialist of the Year Award and one of just four honorees recognized with a 2025 Award of Excellence from the National Council for Mental Wellbeing. National Council President and CEO Chuck Ingoglia presented the awards during NatCon25, the organization’s annual conference on mental health and substance use treatment, held May 5–7 in Philadelphia. The event drew more than 6,000 behavioral health professionals from across the country.
“Anthony’s ability to use his lived experience with compassion and empathy has had a profound impact on the community we serve,” VIP Community Services Assistant Vice President and Senior Director of Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics Alison Maling said. “He creates space for growth, learning and healing, not only for patients and veterans, but also for his colleagues. It has been an honor to witness his journey and the way his presence inspires change in others; this national recognition is both well-earned and deeply deserved.”
