Peer support professionals are individuals who have navigated the recovery process, who support others experiencing similar situations. Through shared understanding, respect, and mutual empowerment, peer support professionals support people in making the changes they feel necessary to support their own wellness. Peer support services can effectively extend the reach of treatment beyond the clinical setting into the everyday environment of those seeking a successful, sustained recovery process.

Peer support provides a personal level of knowledge by sharing similar life experiences. These common personal experiences can foster meaningful connections and a deeper sense of understanding and empathy between individuals who may otherwise feel misunderstood.

Roles of peer support professionals:

  • Advocating for people in recovery

  • Sharing resources and building skills
  • Building community and relationships

  • Mentoring and setting goals

Peer support roles may also extend to the following:

  • Providing services and/or training
  • Supervising other peer workers
  • Developing connections to resources
  • Educating the public and policymakers

Interested in working for Next Steps for Change as a Peer Support Professional?

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