Peer Support is a form of mutual aid where individuals with similar experiences provide emotional and practical support to each other, promoting self-help, healing, and empowerment. It is based on the idea that people who have experienced similar challenges can offer unique insight, understanding, and support to one another. Peer support is provided by people who have lived experience with mental health or substance use challenges, and the focus is on sharing personal experiences, offering emotional support, and helping the person build a sense of hope and empowerment. It provides a way for people to share their experiences and learn from each other in a safe and supportive environment.
Traditional Counseling Therapy typically involves a licensed mental health professional working with a client to diagnose and treat mental health disorders. The focus is on diagnosing and treating the individual’s symptoms through a combination of talk therapy, medication management, and other treatment modalities.
Coaching, on the other hand, is typically focused on goal-setting, skill-building, and helping clients achieve specific personal or professional objectives. The coach works collaboratively with the client to develop a plan of action, provide guidance and support, and hold the client accountable for taking steps to achieve their goals.
While there is some overlap between these models, the main difference lies in the approach and focus of each. Traditional counseling therapy is typically more clinically focused, coaching is typically more action-oriented, and peer support is typically more experiential and relational. Peer Support, in particular, requires previous lived experience.
