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Peer Support Specialists Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Join Our Team as a Peer Support Specialist at West Hillcrest! Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of others? At West Hillcrest, located in Burlington, NC, we are dedicated to ...

Certified Peer Support Specialists (CPSS)

Tarboro, NC · On-site

$15.75 - $20.25/hr

Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS) Location: Tarboro, NC (Remote / Serving Edgecombe, Nash, Pitt, Wilson, Martin, Halifax, and Hertford Counties) Department: Clinical Reports to: Clinical ...

Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS) Location: Tarboro, NC (Remote / Serving Edgecombe, Nash, Pitt, Wilson, Martin, Halifax, and Hertford Counties) Department: Clinical Reports to: Clinical ...

Peer Support

Brooklyn, NY · On-site

$23 - $25/hr

Peer Support Specialist Job Summary: We are seeking a compassionate Peer Support Specialist to join our team at Mindset Mental Support. As a Peer Support Specialist, you will provide mutual support ...

Peer Support Specialist - PT

NJ · On-site

$18 - $20/hr

Peer Support Specialists will be expected to take the lead on engagement and may also conduct non-clinical assistance by providing support to consumers after the initial crisis has been resolved.

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Peer Support Specialists information

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$10

$19

$28

How much do peer support specialists jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for peer support specialists in the United States is $19.72, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $21.63 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do Peer Support Specialists typically collaborate with clinical teams in mental health settings?

Peer Support Specialists often work closely with clinical teams, including therapists, social workers, and case managers, to provide holistic care for clients. They bring lived experience and unique insights, helping bridge communication between clients and professionals. Collaboration may involve participating in team meetings, sharing observations, and advocating for client-centered approaches. This teamwork ensures that clients receive both emotional support from peers and clinical guidance, fostering a more comprehensive recovery environment.

What is the difference between Peer Support Specialists vs Mental Health Counselors?

AspectPeer Support SpecialistsMental Health Counselors
CredentialsTypically require a peer support certification or lived experienceRequire a master's degree in counseling or psychology and state licensure
Work EnvironmentCommunity programs, recovery centers, mental health clinicsPrivate practices, clinics, hospitals, mental health agencies
Employer & IndustryNonprofits, government agencies, healthcare organizationsHospitals, private practices, mental health facilities

Peer Support Specialists focus on recovery and support through lived experience, often working in community settings. Mental Health Counselors provide clinical therapy and diagnosis, typically requiring advanced degrees and licensure. Both roles are vital in mental health care but differ in credentials, scope, and work environment.

What skills do you need to be a peer specialist?

Peer Support Specialists need strong communication and active listening skills to effectively support others. They should have lived experience with mental health or substance use recovery, along with empathy, patience, and the ability to establish trust. Certification or training in peer support methods is often required or preferred.

What are Peer Support Specialists?

Peer Support Specialists are individuals with lived experience of mental health or substance use challenges who are trained to support others facing similar issues. They use their personal experiences to offer guidance, encouragement, and practical assistance to help others in their recovery journey. Peer Support Specialists often work in mental health centers, addiction treatment facilities, hospitals, or community organizations, providing emotional support, advocacy, and resources. Their unique perspective helps foster hope and empowerment among those they support.

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 generally need lived experience with mental health or substance use challenges, basic counseling skills, and completion of a peer support certification program. Familiarity with documentation tools, recovery planning software, and crisis intervention protocols is often required. Exceptional listening, empathy, and the ability to build trust help Peer Support Specialists effectively support and empower others on their recovery journeys. These skills and qualities are critical for fostering hope, modeling recovery, and connecting clients to resources in a supportive and collaborative manner.

What can a peer support specialist do?

A peer support specialist provides emotional support, guidance, and education to individuals experiencing mental health or substance use challenges, drawing on their own lived experience. They help clients navigate treatment options, develop coping skills, and connect to community resources, often working in healthcare or community settings. Certification and training are typically required to perform these duties effectively.

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.

How hard is it to become a peer support specialist?

Becoming a peer support specialist typically requires completing a training program and obtaining certification, which can take several weeks to months depending on the state or organization. Candidates often need lived experience with mental health or substance use challenges and must demonstrate strong communication and empathy skills.
More about Peer Support Specialists jobs
What cities are hiring for Peer Support Specialists jobs? Cities with the most Peer Support Specialists job openings:
What states have the most Peer Support Specialists jobs? States with the most job openings for Peer Support Specialists jobs include:
Infographic showing various Peer Support Specialists job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 23% Full Time, 76% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,023 per year, or $19.7 per hour.

Peer Support Specialists

West Hillcrest

Burlington, NC

$17 - $18/hr

Full-time

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Join Our Team as a Peer Support Specialist at West Hillcrest!

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of others? At West Hillcrest, located in Burlington, NC, we are dedicated to creating a supportive and empowering environment for our community. We’re looking for a compassionate and motivated Peer Support Specialist to join our team and help us continue our mission of fostering growth and resilience.

What You’ll Do

As a Peer Support Specialist, you’ll play a vital role in supporting individuals on their journey to wellness. Your responsibilities will include:

  • Providing emotional support and guidance to individuals based on your own lived experiences.
  • Assisting individuals in identifying and achieving personal goals.
  • Promoting self-advocacy and independence.
  • Facilitating group discussions and peer-led activities.
  • Collaborating with team members to ensure a holistic approach to care.
What We’re Looking For

We’re seeking a candidate who brings both experience and empathy to the role. Here’s what you’ll need to succeed:

  • 1 year of experience in a similar role or related field.
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
  • A genuine passion for helping others and sharing your own experiences to inspire growth.
  • The ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
Why West Hillcrest?

At West Hillcrest, we believe in the power of community and the importance of shared experiences. We’re committed to creating a welcoming and inclusive workplace where every team member feels valued and supported. When you join us, you’re not just taking on a job—you’re becoming part of a mission-driven organization that truly cares about making a positive impact.

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you’re ready to bring your experience and compassion to a role that changes lives, we’d love to hear from you! Apply today to join the West Hillcrest team and help us continue building a brighter future for our community.


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