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Peer Support Specialist Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Unity Health Care.

Peer Navigator (DOC)

Washington, DC · On-site

$45K - $50K/yr

Two (2) years of experience as a Community Health Worker, Peer Recovery Specialist, or similar peer support role working with diverse populations. * Knowledge of Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT)

cbi

Recovery Support Specialist (NIGHTS)

Washington, DC · On-site

$21 - $27.77/hr

Certified Peer Support Specialist Community Bridges, Inc. (CBI) is an integrated behavioral healthcare organization offering a full continuum of care, including variety of programs throughout Arizona ...

Fairfax County

Peer Recovery Specialist II

Fairfax, VA

$46K - $80K/yr

Must bring personal recovery experience, formal peer support training, and the ability to use ... The Peer Recovery Specialist II acknowledges that sustained personal recovery is an essential ...

cbi

Recovery Support Specialist (NIGHTS)

Washington, DC · On-site

$21 - $27.77/hr

Certified Peer Support Specialist Community Bridges, Inc. (CBI) is an integrated behavioral healthcare organization offering a full continuum of care, including variety of programs throughout Arizona ...

cbi

Recovery Support Specialist (NIGHTS)

Washington, DC · On-site

$21 - $27.77/hr

Certified Peer Support Specialist Community Bridges, Inc. (CBI) is an integrated behavioral healthcare organization offering a full continuum of care, including variety of programs throughout Arizona ...

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All JobsPeer Support Specialist JobsPeer Support Specialist Jobs in Reston, VA

Peer Support Specialist information

See Reston, VA salary details

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How much do peer support specialist jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average hourly pay for peer support specialist in Reston, VA is $20.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.50 and $22.50 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

To thrive as a Peer Support Specialist, you typically need lived experience with mental health or substance use challenges, peer support training, and sometimes state certification. Familiarity with documentation systems, recovery planning tools, and support group platforms is common in this role. Exceptional listening skills, empathy, and the ability to empower others are vital soft skills that set top performers apart. These skills and qualifications are crucial to effectively guide and inspire clients on their recovery journeys while working collaboratively with care teams.

How do peer support specialists typically collaborate with clinical staff and other support professionals?

Peer Support Specialists often work closely with clinical staff, such as therapists, case managers, and nurses, to provide holistic care for clients. They act as a bridge between clients and the clinical team, offering unique insights based on their lived experience. Regular team meetings, shared care plans, and open communication are common practices to ensure everyone is informed and aligned. This collaborative approach enhances support for clients and fosters a positive, integrated work environment.

What is the difference between Peer Support Specialist vs Mental Health Counselor?

AspectPeer Support SpecialistMental Health Counselor
Required CredentialsPeer support certification, lived experienceMaster's degree in counseling or psychology, state licensure
Work EnvironmentCommunity programs, recovery centers, hospitalsClinics, private practices, hospitals
Employer & Industry UsageBehavioral health agencies, non-profitsHealthcare facilities, private practices
Common Search & ComparisonPeer Support Specialist vs Mental Health Counselor

The main difference between a Peer Support Specialist and a Mental Health Counselor lies in their credentials and approach. Peer Support Specialists rely on lived experience and certification, working primarily in community and recovery settings. Mental Health Counselors typically hold advanced degrees and licensure, providing clinical therapy in healthcare environments. Both roles are vital in mental health support but serve different functions within the industry.

How much does a peer support specialist make?

In North Carolina, peer support specialists typically earn between $15 and $20 per hour, with annual salaries ranging from approximately $31,000 to $41,000. Salaries can vary based on experience, certification, and work setting, such as mental health agencies or community programs.

Is it hard to become a peer support specialist?

Becoming a peer support specialist typically requires lived experience with mental health or substance use challenges, along with completing a state-approved training program and obtaining certification. The process can vary by location but generally involves meeting specific eligibility criteria and demonstrating interpersonal skills. It is considered accessible for many individuals committed to helping others and willing to complete the necessary training.

Is peer support specialist a stressful job?

Peer support specialists often work in emotionally demanding environments, providing support to individuals with mental health or substance use issues. The job can be stressful due to exposure to clients' challenges and the need for strong emotional resilience, but training and supervision help manage these stressors. Self-care and clear boundaries are important for maintaining well-being in this role.
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The top searched job categories for Peer Support Specialist jobs in Reston, VA are:

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Cities near Reston, VA with the most Peer Support Specialist job openings:

Peer Support Specialist jobs near you
Infographic showing various Peer Support Specialist job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 87% Full Time, and 13% Part Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Hybrid job distribution, with an average salary of $42,678 per year, or $20.5 per hour.

Peer Support Specialist

People Encouraging People

Hyattsville, MD • On-site

$19.20 - $21.15/hr

Full-time

Posted 11 days ago

Job description

POSITION OVERVIEW

Provide outreach services to patients in the community and coordinate health services between the Agency, community and home settings. Participate as a full member of the team to carry out rehabilitation and support services. Provide substance abuse services and education, and support to families and other identified supports. Provide crisis intervention under the supervision of the Program Manager. Schedule and Manage weekend shifts between peers to assure delivery of services to persons in treatment. Contact the on-call clinician to respond in person to situations which require a clinical intervention.


REPORTING STRUCTURE

There are no staff persons reporting to this position.


SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES

- Conduct visits to various agencies, shelters and hospitals to engage clients for the ACT program.

- Screen clients upon admission to the ACT program; obtain complete psychiatric and medical health history.

- Coordinate client care and collaborate with other social and community agencies, advocating for clients; refer clients to other treatment facilities/community resources as required.

- Participate in community ACT Team related meetings, client care conferences, clinical programs, etc.

- Participate in the provision of rehabilitation services in coordination with the team.

- Instruct clients and families in regards to: nutrition, medication, side effects, and all physical/psychiatric illnesses, dental care, substance abuse prevention, health maintenance and preventative care, including activities related to diagnostic testing preparation and prescribed treatment for acute and short-term treatment.

- Provide training in communicable disease prevention; prevention of sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV/AIDS, as needed and if credentialed.

- Assess acute health problems of clients to determine the most appropriate health care provider and make referrals.

- Act as a liaison between the Agency and various community programs.

- Serve as a resource for other staff members in the development of the case management role with their clients.

- Provide advocacy and appropriate resources for clients.

- Provide case management for an assigned group of clients including coordinating and monitoring the activities of the individual treatment team; assume responsibility for developing, writing, implementing, evaluating, and revising overall treatment goals and plans in conjunction with the ITP; provide individual supportive counseling; assist in symptom management, ensuring immediate changes are made in the treatment plans as client’s needs change. Educate and support client’s families, and advocate for client rights and preferences.

- Conduct comprehensive assessment of all domains of a person’s life.

- Provide on call crisis intervention when assigned covering nighttime and weekend hours.

- Become an expert of the ACT philosophy and follow and maintain high fidelity to the ACT Model of Care.


PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES

Candidate recruitment for the ACT program

Client assessment and ongoing treatment.

Client well being (clinical and physical).

Education and training.


EDUCATION, WORK EXPERIENCE AND JOB REQUIREMENTS

Education: High School Diploma and/or equivalent work experience. Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) required.

Skill Requirement: One to six months OJT required for efficient job performance.

Job Requirements: Excellent communication, problem solving and organizational skills. Must have a valid driver’s license. Must have a clean driving record. Must have the ability to work independently with minimum supervision


COMMENTS

Must exhibit knowledge of mental health treatment.







NOTE: INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THIS DESCRIPTION IS A SUMMARY OF THE ASSIGNED DUTIES AND NOT INCLUSIVE OF ALL REQUIREMENTS THAT MAY BE ASSIGNED. ADDITIONAL DUTIES MAY BE ASSIGNED ON AN AS NEEDED BASIS