Intermediate
Technical
IVT
peer support specialist
A trained professional with lived experience of mental illness who provides support and advocacy services to others in recovery.
Full Definition
A peer support specialist is an individual with personal experience of mental health challenges who has received specialized training to provide support, advocacy, and mentorship to others navigating similar experiences. Peer support specialists work within mental health teams to offer unique insights based on their recovery journey. They help clients develop coping strategies, navigate systems, and maintain hope through the recovery process.
Usage
Usage note: Capitalize when used as a formal job title. Use lowercase in general references.
In Context
- "The peer support specialist will facilitate the recovery support group." — staffing plan
- "Certification requirements for peer support specialists vary by state." — credentialing document
Also known as
peer specialist
peer counselor
peer mentor
Don't confuse with
peer advocate
case manager