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Peer Counseling Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

Peer Advocate

Wilton Manors, FL · On-site

$30K - $40K/yr

As a Peer Counselor, you will provide essential peer support, education, and advocacy to individuals living with or at risk of HIV. Your personal experience and understanding of the challenges faced ...

As a Peer Counselor, you will provide essential peer support, education, and advocacy to individuals living with or at risk of HIV. Your personal experience and understanding of the challenges faced ...

Peer Specialist

Miami, FL · On-site

$18/hr

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: 1. Engages in peer-to-peer counseling and education to clients, including advocacy, and direct service, using own recovery experience as a positive model. 2. ...

Peer Specialist

Miami, FL · On-site

$18/hr

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: 1. Engages in peer-to-peer counseling and education to clients, including advocacy, and direct service, using own recovery experience as a positive model. 2. ...

Peer Specialist

Miami, FL · On-site

$18/hr

Essential Duties and Responsibilities: 1. Engages in peer-to-peer counseling and education to clients, including advocacy, and direct service, using own recovery experience as a positive model. 2. ...

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Peer Counseling information

See Florida salary details

$7

$15

$22

How much do peer counseling jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for peer counseling in Florida is $15.25, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $12.93 and $16.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is peer counseling?

Peer counseling is a form of support where individuals help others who are facing similar life challenges, such as mental health issues, academic stress, or personal problems. Peer counselors are usually trained students or community members who offer guidance, listen empathetically, and provide resources, but they are not licensed therapists. The goal is to create a safe and non-judgmental space for sharing experiences and promoting well-being. Peer counseling can complement professional counseling by offering relatable support and fostering a sense of community.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a peer counselor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Peer Counselor, you need strong interpersonal skills, active listening abilities, and lived experience with the issues clients face, often supported by peer support training or certification. Familiarity with documentation tools, mental health first aid, and crisis intervention systems is typically required. Empathy, confidentiality, and nonjudgmental communication are crucial soft skills for building trust and rapport. These skills and qualities are vital to effectively support and empower peers while maintaining professional boundaries and promoting well-being.

How do peer counselors typically balance supporting others with managing their own emotional well-being?

Peer counselors often encounter emotionally charged situations, so maintaining personal well-being is crucial. Most organizations provide regular supervision, access to mental health resources, and peer support groups to help counselors process their experiences. It's common for peer counselors to set boundaries around their availability and practice self-care strategies, such as debriefing with colleagues or supervisors after challenging sessions. This supportive structure not only protects the counselor's mental health but also ensures they can provide the best care to those they support.

What is the difference between Peer Counseling vs Mental Health Counselor?

AspectPeer CounselingMental Health Counselor
Required CredentialsTraining programs, certifications, peer support experienceMaster's degree in counseling or psychology, state licensure
Work EnvironmentCommunity centers, schools, support groupsClinics, hospitals, private practices
Employer & Industry UsageNonprofits, educational institutions, peer-led programsHealthcare facilities, mental health agencies
Common Search & ComparisonPeer CounselingMental Health Counselor

Peer Counseling involves providing support based on shared experiences, often with specialized training but without formal licensure. Mental Health Counselors hold advanced degrees and licensure, offering clinical therapy. Both roles aim to support mental well-being but differ in credentials, settings, and scope of practice.

Is peer counseling a good career path for me?

Peer counseling is a career that involves providing support and guidance to individuals facing personal challenges, often requiring strong communication skills and empathy. It typically requires relevant training or certification and can be found in settings like schools, community organizations, or healthcare facilities. Success in this field depends on interpersonal skills and a genuine interest in helping others.

What does a peer counselor do?

A peer counselor provides emotional support, guidance, and active listening to individuals facing personal, social, or mental health challenges. They often share similar experiences to build trust and may facilitate group discussions or refer clients to professional resources. Strong communication skills and confidentiality are essential in this role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Peer Counseling jobs in Florida?

The most popular types of Peer Counseling jobs in Florida are:

What cities in Florida are hiring for Peer Counseling jobs?

Cities in Florida with the most Peer Counseling job openings:

Infographic showing various Peer Counseling job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $31,724 per year, or $15.3 per hour.

FACT Peer Counselor (1835)

Leesburg, FL • On-site

LifeStream Behavioral Center
Offices of Mental Health Practitioners • 501 - 1,000 employees

$15.40/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Job description

Job Purpose:
- The FACT Peer Counselor is a member of a multidisciplinary team that has responsibility to carry out rehabilitation and support functions and assist in treatment; provides substance abuse services, education, support, and consultation to families; and provides crisis intervention under the clinical supervision of staff with professional degrees.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide peer support and counseling to clients, utilizing personal experiences to build rapport and trust.
- Assist clients in developing coping strategies and setting recovery goals.
- Facilitate group sessions and workshops aimed at promoting mental health awareness and recovery.
- Collaborate with clinical staff to develop and implement individualized care plans.
- Advocate for clients' needs and rights within the healthcare system.
- Maintain accurate and confidential records of client interactions and progress.
- Participate in ongoing training and professional development to enhance counseling skills.
- Engage with community resources to connect clients with additional support services.
- Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of peer support interventions, making adjustments as necessary.
- Contribute to a positive and supportive environment for both clients and staff.
Required Education:
- High school diploma or equivalent is required.
Required Experience:
- Minimum of 1 year of experience in a peer counseling or support role.
- Experience working with individuals with mental health or behavioral challenges.
- Familiarity with community resources and support systems.
Required Skills and Abilities:
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to empathize and connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds.
- Excellent problem-solving and conflict resolution abilities.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Proficiency in maintaining confidentiality and professional boundaries.
- Basic computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
- Ability to manage time effectively and prioritize tasks.
LifeStream Benefits
  • Health/Dental/Vision Insurance
  • Short Term Disability
  • Pension Plan
  • 403(b)
  • Paid Time Off (Over 4 weeks your 1st year!)
  • Flexible Work Schedules
  • Tuition Reimbursement Program
  • Free Telehealth Services
  • HRSA Loan Forgiveness Program
  • And More!

Important Notice
As part of our hiring process and in compliance with Section 435.04, Florida Statutes, certain positions require a Level 2 background screening. Employment offers are contingent upon meeting applicable requirements. For more details on Level 2 background screening requirements, please visit: Florida Care Provider Background Screening Clearinghouse
LifeStream is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate against any applicant based on age, citizenship, color, covered veteran status, disability, gender identity, genetic information, marital status, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, or other protected status in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.