Foundations of Peer Support Core Competencies

Course Duration: ~4 hours
Delivery Format: Online, Self-Paced
Certification: Certificate of Completion and CEU’s upon passing final assessment

Course Overview

Peer support is a powerful tool in recovery, built on shared experiences, mutual respect, and empowerment. This course is designed to equip new and aspiring peer specialists with the core competencies necessary to provide ethical, effective, and person-centered support. Through interactive modules, real-world scenarios, and knowledge assessments, learners will develop the skills needed to foster trust, encourage self-directed recovery, and advocate for both individuals and systemic change.

By the end of this course, you will have a strong foundation in peer support principles, relationship-building, recovery planning, crisis navigation, diversity considerations, and advocacy—all essential components of professional peer work.

Who Should Take This Course?

• New or aspiring Peer Recovery Support Specialists
• Individuals providing non-clinical recovery support
• Professionals working in peer-led recovery organizations
• Anyone interested in developing foundational peer support skills

Learning Objectives

By completing this course, learners will:

✅ Understand the role, principles, and ethics of peer support.
✅ Develop effective communication and active listening skills.
✅ Learn how to support peers through diverse recovery journeys.
✅ Identify and navigate crisis situations while maintaining boundaries.
✅ Explore strategies for adapting peer support to different backgrounds.
✅ Engage in advocacy and leadership opportunities to promote recovery.

Course Structure & Outline

This course consists of seven self-paced lessons that combine interactive learning, real-world case studies, and assessments.

Lesson 1: Foundations of Peer Support (45 min)

• Introduction to peer support and its guiding principles
• The role and ethical responsibilities of a peer specialist
• Maintaining boundaries and confidentiality in peer work
• Self-assessment for personal strengths and growth areas
  📄 Key Resource: Core Competency Self-Inventory Worksheet

Lesson 2: Building Effective Peer Relationships (45 min)

• Establishing trust and rapport with peers
• Active listening and communication strategies
• Sharing lived experience appropriately
• Managing challenging peer interactions
  📄 Key Resource: Effective Peer Communication Guide

Lesson 3: Supporting Recovery Journeys (45 min)

• Understanding multiple pathways of recovery
• Helping peers set goals and find motivation
• Connecting individuals to community and online resources
• Encouraging resilience through setbacks and challenges
  📄 Key Resource: Peer Support Resource Toolkit

Lesson 4: Navigating Crisis & Self-Care (45 min)

• Recognizing signs of distress and crisis
• Peer support’s role vs. clinical intervention
• Warm handoffs and appropriate referrals
• Self-care and burnout prevention for peer specialists
  📄 Key Resource: Crisis & Self-Care Quick Guide

Lesson 5: Adapting Peer Support for Diverse Needs (45 min)

• Recognizing individualized recovery needs
• Cultural humility and inclusive peer support
• Using person-centered, non-stigmatizing language
• Connecting peers to personalized recovery resources
  📄 Key Resource: Effective Peer Support Language & Resource Guide

Lesson 6: Advocacy & Peer Leadership (45 min)

• Supporting peers in self-advocacy
• Engaging in community and systems advocacy
• Developing leadership and mentorship skills
• Advancing career growth in the peer workforce
  📄 Key Resource: Peer Advocacy & Leadership Toolkit

Lesson 7: Final Course Wrap-Up & Certification (30 min)

• Course review and key takeaways
• Next steps for professional growth in peer support
• Final knowledge assessment (must pass to earn certification) 📄 Key Resource: Peer Support Competency Checklist

Final Knowledge Assessment & Certification

At the end of this course, learners will complete a 15-question knowledge check covering all major topics. A passing score is required to earn the Certificate of Completion and CEU’s. Learners can review materials and retake the assessment if needed.

📌 Upon passing, you will receive a downloadable certificate to recognize your achievement.

Why Take This Course?

✔ Industry-Aligned Content – Based on SAMHSA Core Competencies and best practices from the National Association of Peer Supporters (NAPS).
✔ Interactive Learning – Engaging, real-world scenarios to reinforce concepts.
✔ Self-Paced & Accessible – Complete the course at your convenience in LearnDash LMS.
✔ Earn a Certificate – Demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to professional peer support.

Get Started!

Click Start Course to begin Lesson 1: Foundations of Peer Support and take your first step toward building the essential skills of a Peer Support Specialist!