You’re interested in Peer Support. What are some common career paths?

1 Peer Support Specialist

A peer support specialist is someone who has lived experience of a mental health condition or substance use disorder and uses their recovery journey to help others with similar issues. Peer support specialists work in various settings, such as community-based organizations, hospitals, clinics, or recovery centers. They may offer individual or group support, advocacy, education, or referrals to other resources. To become a peer support specialist, you typically need to complete a training program and obtain a certification from a recognized body.

2 Peer Mentor

A peer mentor is someone who has overcome a personal or professional challenge and offers guidance, encouragement, and feedback to others who are facing similar situations. Peer mentors may work in different fields, such as education, employment, health, or justice. They may help their mentees with goal setting, problem solving, skill development, or networking. To become a peer mentor, you usually need to have some relevant experience, skills, or qualifications in your field and undergo some training or orientation.

3 Peer Educator

A peer educator is someone who uses their knowledge, experience, or skills to educate and empower others on a specific topic or issue. Peer educators may work in various domains, such as sexual health, HIV/AIDS, violence prevention, or human rights. They may deliver workshops, presentations, or campaigns to raise awareness, change attitudes, or promote behaviors that support the well-being of their peers. To become a peer educator, you often need to have some background or interest in the topic and complete some training or accreditation.

4 Peer Counselor

A peer counselor is someone who provides emotional support, active listening, and empathy to others who are going through a difficult time or transition. Peer counselors may work in different contexts, such as schools, colleges, workplaces, or crisis lines. They may help their peers cope with stress, anxiety, depression, grief, or other challenges. To become a peer counselor, you usually need to have some communication and interpersonal skills and complete some training or supervision.

5 Peer Mediator

A peer mediator is someone who helps others resolve conflicts or disputes in a peaceful and constructive way. Peer mediators may work in different environments, such as schools, neighborhoods, or workplaces. They may facilitate dialogue, negotiation, or agreement between parties who have different perspectives, needs, or interests. To become a peer mediator, you typically need to have some conflict resolution and facilitation skills and complete some training or certification.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?