| Aspect | Lived Experience Peer Support | Peer Support Worker |
|---|
| Credentials | Often requires lived experience and peer support training | Typically requires peer support training, may include certifications |
| Work Environment | Community-based, mental health, addiction services | Healthcare facilities, community programs, mental health agencies |
| Employer & Industry | Nonprofits, mental health organizations, government programs | Hospitals, clinics, community health organizations |
Both roles involve supporting individuals through shared experiences, but Lived Experience Peer Support emphasizes personal lived experience as a foundation, often focusing on mental health or addiction recovery. Peer Support Workers may have formal certifications and work in broader healthcare settings. Understanding these differences helps clarify the unique contributions each role offers in supporting community well-being.