What I provide as a Certified Peer Counselor vs. a Licensed Clinical Therapist

Peer Counselors are a lot like Coaches or Mentors only Peer Counselors have undergone formal training in peer support and they are individuals who have first-hand experience in intense therapy and successful recovery.

Therapists have different roles and approaches, and each can offer unique benefits to clients based on their needs and goals. Here are some things that a peer counselor can do that a therapist might not typically provide:

Lived Experience: Peer Counselors have had personal experience with the specific challenges or issues they're supporting others with. This can create a strong sense of relatability and understanding, as they've been through similar situations and emotions.

Empathy and Connection: Due to their shared experiences, peer counselors often offer a unique level of empathy and connection. This can create a safe and non-judgmental space for individuals to share their feelings and concerns.

Practical Insights: Peer Counselors can provide practical strategies and insights that worked for them personally. These strategies might not be found in textbooks but could be valuable because they've been tried and tested in real life.

Validation: Having someone validate your feelings and experiences, especially when they've been through something similar, can be incredibly reassuring and affirming which empowers clients that change is an attainable goal.

Cultural and Social Understanding: Peer Counselors from similar cultural backgrounds or social contexts might have a deeper understanding of the cultural or societal factors affecting an individual's challenges.

Less Clinical Atmosphere: Some individuals may feel more comfortable talking to a Peer Counselor in a less clinical setting, which can reduce the stigma often associated with seeking professional help.

Complementary to Therapy: Peer Counseling can be a great addition to professional therapy. It can provide ongoing support, practical advice, and understanding between therapy sessions.

Goal-Oriented Approach: Peer Counselors often focus on helping clients set and achieve specific goals, whether they're related to personal development, career advancement, or lifestyle changes. This goal-oriented approach can provide clients with tangible results and a sense of progress.

Action Planning: Peer Counselors emphasize actionable steps and strategies to help clients move forward. They can provide practical advice, accountability, and tools for implementing changes in a client's life.

Forward-Focused: Peer Counseling often centers on the future, guiding clients to imagine where they aspire to be and aiding them in crafting a roadmap to reach those goals. While Therapists may delve into the past to grasp present difficulties, I also concentrate on unearthing the root causes behind behaviors, while simultaneously channeling efforts into refining those responses. My approach accentuates progress and actions that pave the way for an improved future.

Skill Enhancement: Peer Counselors play a crucial role in assisting clients to cultivate distinct abilities, encompassing aspects such as self-care, fundamental budgeting, basic money management, anger management, and establishing basic health,  fitness & wellness routines.

Additionally, addresses skills in interpersonal communication, leadership, time management, and various other domains. The acquisition of these proficiencies holds immense value, contributing to both personal development and professional advancement.

Accountability: Peer Counselors often provide a heightened level of accountability, helping clients stay on track with their goals and commitments. This can be especially effective for individuals who need external motivation.

Short-Term and Long-Term Focus: Peer Counselor engagements can vary in duration, spanning either shorter or longer periods based on individual needs. Generally, as clients transition from therapy, there's a natural progression, and during this phase, I provide a supplementary long-term plan.  

Short-term arrangements are also available for clients. Some regular clients occasionally schedule sessions when they want to share their thoughts and seek an impartial perspective on their situations to steer them in the right direction. Peer Counselors are here to assist clients in recognizing their blind spots, which we all have. These blind spots become more evident when viewed through an unbiased lens, and that's precisely what we offer. 

Short-term or long-term, these plans serve to prevent regression or relapse and ensure that the progress achieved continues to flourish. These approaches are particularly advantageous for individuals seeking targeted outcomes and who may not necessitate extensive, ongoing therapeutic intervention.

Proactive Problem-Solving: Peer Counselors help clients identify obstacles and challenges and work together to develop solutions. This proactive approach can empower clients to overcome barriers.

Peer Counselor/Coach Fusion: While Coaches often carve out niches in areas like career, health, or relationship coaching, I bring together the specialized realms of a Peer Support Counselor and a Coach. My versatility stems from a rich tapestry of experience and expertise, allowing me to provide a comprehensive blend of both roles.

Unlike Therapists, who delve into clinical diagnosis and therapeutic interventions, as a peer counselor I often specialize in specific domains such as career, health, and relationships. This expertise enables me to offer targeted guidance in these areas. Merging the specialized roles of a Peer Support Counselor and coach, I bring a multifaceted approach born from diverse experience and knowledge.

Balancing Multiple Roles: Peer Counselors can help clients navigate various roles and responsibilities in their lives, such as work-life balance, leadership challenges, or personal development.