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Entry Level Peer Support Specialist Jobs in Riverside, CA

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Entry Level Peer Support Specialist information

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How much do entry level peer support specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level peer support specialist in Riverside, CA is $20.58, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.55 and $22.55 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an entry level peer support specialist?

An Entry Level Peer Support Specialist is a person who uses their own lived experience with mental health or substance use challenges to support and assist others who are going through similar issues. They provide emotional support, share coping strategies, and help connect people to community resources. Entry level means they are new to the profession and often work under supervision while receiving training. Their main goal is to foster hope and empower individuals on their recovery journeys.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level peer support specialist?

To thrive as an Entry Level Peer Support Specialist, you need lived experience with mental health or substance use challenges, a high school diploma or equivalent, and completion of a peer support training program. Familiarity with documentation software and basic computer literacy are typically required, and some states mandate certification in peer support. Outstanding active listening, empathy, and the ability to build trust are essential soft skills for supporting individuals on their recovery journey. These skills and qualifications are crucial because they enable effective peer support, foster hope, and help clients navigate recovery resources.

What are some common challenges entry level peer support specialists face when starting in this role, and how can they effectively address them?

Entry Level Peer Support Specialists often encounter challenges such as setting healthy boundaries with peers, managing emotional triggers from shared experiences, and navigating collaboration with clinical staff. It's important to receive proper training in boundary-setting and self-care techniques, as well as to seek regular supervision or peer consultation. Open communication and a willingness to learn from more experienced team members can also help new specialists build confidence and navigate the complexities of the role.

What is the difference between Entry Level Peer Support Specialist vs Mental Health Technician?

AspectEntry Level Peer Support SpecialistMental Health Technician
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma; peer support certification often preferredHigh school diploma; mental health technician certification or training
Work EnvironmentCommunity programs, mental health clinics, hospitalsHospitals, psychiatric facilities, residential treatment centers
Employer & Industry UsageBehavioral health organizations, non-profitsHealthcare facilities, mental health agencies
Common Search & ComparisonPeer support roles, entry-level mental health jobsBehavioral health technician, mental health aide

The Entry Level Peer Support Specialist and Mental Health Technician roles share similarities in work environment and required certifications, often working in mental health settings. However, Peer Support Specialists focus on providing peer-based support and advocacy, while Mental Health Technicians assist with patient care and safety. Both roles serve vital functions in mental health care but differ in scope and responsibilities.

What are the most commonly searched types of Peer Support Specialist jobs in Riverside, CA?

The most popular types of Peer Support Specialist jobs in Riverside, CA are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Peer Support Specialist jobs in Riverside, CA?

For Entry Level Peer Support Specialist jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Entry Level Peer Support Specialist jobs?

Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Entry Level Peer Support Specialist job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Peer Support Specialist job openings in Riverside, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $42,798 per year, or $20.6 per hour.

Peer Support Counselor Bilingual

Stars Behavioral Health Group

City Of Industry, CA • On-site

$17.75 - $22.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, PTO

Posted 16 days ago


Stars Behavioral Health Group rating

7.0

Company rating: 7.0 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Partner with us in making a positive change!

Join a team where your work truly matters. We're proud to have been certified as a Great Place to Work for 8 years by our own employees. We invite you to partner with us in our mission to improve mental healthcare.

Job Title:

Certificated Peer Support Counselor Bilingual

Division/Program:

City of Industry: Industry Behavioral Health Urgent Care Center

Starting Compensation:

18.00 - 18.50 USD per Hour

Working Location:

City of Industry

Working Hours/Shift:

Thur-Sat 8 am - 6:30 pm & Sun 10 am to 8:30 pm


Why Join Our Team?

  • Competitive Compensation: Offering a salary that matches your skills and experience.
  • Generous Time Off: Enjoy ample vacation and holiday pay.

Comprehensive Benefits Package:

  • Employer-paid medical, dental, and vision coverage.
  • Additional voluntary benefits to support your lifestyle.

Professional Growth Opportunities:

  • On-the-job training with access to paid CEU opportunities.
  • Career development programs designed to help you grow.
  • Supervision for BBS hours for AMFT, ACSW, and APCC professionals (where applicable).

Employee Recognition & Rewards: A culture that celebrates and rewards your hard work and dedication

What you bring to SBHG(Qualifications):

  • High School diploma or equivalent (e.g. GED, HiSET, etc.) required

  • Personal experience as a consumer in the child welfare, probation, or mental health systems

  • One (1) year of full-time experience performing non-professional, consumer directed services in a mental health, health care, or other social services agency / organization serving people with disabilities preferred

  • Peer Support Specialist Certification: successful completion of the certification process within one year of employment preferred.

  • Valid California Driver's License

  • First Aid certification from persons qualified by agencies including but not limited to the American Red Cross.

How you will make a difference(Job Overview):

The position has primary responsibility for using their lived experience and knowledge of the system to provide outreach and engagement, support, advocacy, and direct services to program clients of all age ranges. Peer Support Counselors are people who have lived experience in the mental health, judicial, and/or social service systems in some capacity. They serve as role models, companions, educators, and advocates to our clients. The Peer Support Counselors will support clients in moving toward recovery, creating a meaningful role in their life, which is separate from their illness.

Division & Program Overview:

  • Facility & Setting:24/7 walk-in outpatient urgent care
  • Clinical ServicesRapid mental health evaluations, crisis intervention, and medication support
  • Length of Stay: Short-term stabilization (up to 24 hours)
  • Population Served:Serves up to 12 adults (18 + ) and 6 adolescents (ages 13-17

Learn more about SBHG at: https://www.starsinc.com/stars-inc/

For Additional Information:

Stgarcia@starsinc.com

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