| Aspect | Peer Support Specialists | Mental Health Counselors |
|---|
| Credentials | Typically require a peer support certification or lived experience | Require a master's degree in counseling or psychology and state licensure |
| Work Environment | Community programs, recovery centers, mental health clinics | Private practices, clinics, hospitals, mental health agencies |
| Employer & Industry | Nonprofits, government agencies, healthcare organizations | Hospitals, 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.