Peer Counseling Program Coordinator Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the realm of mental health and personal growth, the need for Peer Counseling Program Coordinators has never been more prominent.

As society evolves, the demand for empathetic, experienced individuals who can orchestrate and enhance our peer support systems grows louder.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s really expected from a Peer Counseling Program Coordinator?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the essence of this role,
• A hiring manager drawing up the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply interested in the dynamics of peer counseling coordination,

You’re in the right place.

Today, we introduce a customizable Peer Counseling Program Coordinator job description template, crafted for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Peer Counseling Program Coordinator Duties and Responsibilities

Peer Counseling Program Coordinators are responsible for organizing and managing peer counseling programs.

They work with a team of peer counselors and other stakeholders to provide emotional, mental health, and wellness support for individuals within a specific community or organization.

Their key duties and responsibilities include:

• Designing and implementing peer counseling programs that address the needs of the target population.
• Recruiting, training, and overseeing peer counselors to ensure they are providing appropriate and effective support.
• Developing and facilitating training programs for peer counselors that cover essential counseling skills and techniques.
• Creating and maintaining a supportive and safe environment for both counselors and those receiving counseling.
• Monitoring the progress and effectiveness of the peer counseling program, making necessary adjustments as needed.
• Managing the program budget and resources, including fundraising and grant writing if necessary.
• Coordinating with other mental health professionals and organizations to maximize the reach and impact of the program.
• Ensuring all activities comply with relevant laws, regulations, and ethical standards.
• Providing crisis intervention and referral services when necessary.
• Maintaining accurate and confidential records of counseling sessions and progress reports.

 

Peer Counseling Program Coordinator Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Peer Counseling Program Coordinator to oversee the development and implementation of our peer counseling program.

This includes training peer counselors, coordinating counseling sessions, and assessing the effectiveness of the program.

The ideal candidate will have a background in psychology or social work, with a strong understanding of peer counseling strategies and methodologies.

They will be passionate about helping others and committed to creating a supportive, inclusive environment for all participants.

 

Responsibilities

• Oversee the planning and execution of the peer counseling program
• Recruit, train, and supervise peer counselors
• Coordinate counseling sessions and ensure counselors and participants adhere to guidelines
• Evaluate the effectiveness of the peer counseling program and implement improvements as needed
• Provide support and resources to peer counselors
• Maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical guidelines
• Liaise with other professionals and agencies for additional support and resources
• Develop and implement outreach initiatives to raise awareness of the program
• Prepare and present reports on program status and effectiveness

 

Qualifications

• Degree in Psychology, Social Work or related field
• Experience in counseling, social work or a similar role
• Knowledge of peer counseling strategies and techniques
• Strong leadership and interpersonal skills
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
• High degree of empathy and understanding
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and adhere to ethical guidelines

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Peer Counseling Program Coordinator
• Work Environment: Office setting with occasional community outreach. Some travel may be required for training or conferences.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Counseling Services.
• Salary: Salary is based on candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $65,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Peer Counseling Program Coordinator Do?

A Peer Counseling Program Coordinator typically works for educational institutions, non-profit organizations, or healthcare facilities.

They are responsible for managing and coordinating peer counseling programs that aim to provide emotional and social support to individuals within a community or institution.

They work closely with peer counselors, providing them with the necessary training and guidance to ensure they are equipped to handle various counseling situations.

They may also be involved in the recruitment and selection of peer counselors, ensuring they are appropriately qualified and suited for the role.

A key part of their role is to develop and implement policies and procedures that guide the operation of the peer counseling program.

They may also design and execute awareness campaigns to enhance the visibility and reach of the program.

They monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of the program, adjusting strategies and plans as necessary to ensure the program’s success and compliance with relevant laws and regulations.

The Peer Counseling Program Coordinator also acts as the primary point of contact between the organization and external stakeholders, ensuring that the program aligns with the organization’s mission and goals.

Furthermore, they may provide direct counseling and support to clients if necessary, while ensuring a safe, non-judgemental, and confidential environment.

Their role also involves conducting regular meetings with peer counselors to discuss progress, address issues, and ensure consistent standards of service delivery.

 

Peer Counseling Program Coordinator Qualifications and Skills

A Peer Counseling Program Coordinator should be equipped with a variety of skills and qualifications including:

• Exceptional interpersonal skills to establish and maintain effective relationships with counselors, participants, and other stakeholders.
• Strong communication skills to effectively convey information about the program and provide clear instructions to counselors and participants.
• Experience in counseling or peer support roles to understand the emotional and psychological aspects of the job.
• Organizational skills to manage all aspects of the program, including scheduling, tracking participant progress, and maintaining program documentation.
• A deep understanding of confidentiality and ethical guidelines to ensure the privacy and dignity of participants is respected at all times.
• Problem-solving skills to address any issues that arise within the program and find effective solutions.
• Able to facilitate and conduct training sessions for peer counselors, leveraging knowledge in psychology, counseling techniques, and crisis management.
• Ability to analyze program effectiveness using various assessment tools and make necessary changes to improve program outcomes.

 

Peer Counseling Program Coordinator Experience Requirements

For the role of Peer Counseling Program Coordinator, candidates typically need a bachelor’s degree in fields such as psychology, social work, counseling, or a related field.

Prior experience in counseling or social services is crucial, with a minimum of 2 to 3 years of experience generally required.

This experience can be gained through internships, part-time roles, or full-time roles in various counseling settings, including schools, community centers, hospitals, or private practices.

Experience in peer counseling specifically is often preferred.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have a solid foundation in coordinating, planning, and implementing counseling programs.

They should have a demonstrated history of effective communication and the ability to work well with diverse populations.

Those with more than 5 years of experience in the field may have managerial or supervisory experience.

This can include managing teams, overseeing program development, and monitoring program outcomes.

Such candidates are often equipped to handle the complex tasks associated with the Peer Counseling Program Coordinator role, including strategic planning, staff training, budgeting, and community outreach.

Additionally, experience with crisis intervention and conflict resolution can be beneficial.

Candidates should also have knowledge of counseling ethics and laws, as well as experience in maintaining confidential and sensitive information.

 

Peer Counseling Program Coordinator Education and Training Requirements

Peer Counseling Program Coordinators usually require a bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, counseling, or a related field.

They should possess a thorough understanding of counseling principles, group dynamics, and crisis management, often gained through hands-on experience.

Further, a master’s degree in counseling or a related field is often preferred by employers as this signals advanced knowledge and professional commitment.

Workplace requirements might also include a state-licensed certification as a counselor or social worker.

This requires a combination of education and supervised clinical experience.

In addition to formal education, practical experience in a counseling role, particularly in a peer-to-peer setting, is highly beneficial.

Some roles may require special training in specific areas such as substance abuse, grief counseling, or crisis intervention, which can be obtained through specialized courses or certifications.

Continuing education in the form of workshops, seminars, or further professional development courses is often encouraged to stay updated with the latest research and developments in the field of peer counseling.

 

Peer Counseling Program Coordinator Salary Expectations

A Peer Counseling Program Coordinator can expect to earn an average salary of $47,000 (USD) per year.

However, the actual salary may vary depending on factors such as the level of experience, the size and location of the employing organization, and the specific responsibilities of the role.

 

Peer Counseling Program Coordinator Job Description FAQs

What qualifications does a Peer Counseling Program Coordinator need?

A Peer Counseling Program Coordinator typically requires a bachelor’s degree in counseling, psychology, or a related field.

Some positions may require a master’s degree or professional certifications in counseling.

Prior experience in counseling, mental health, or working with the target demographic is also beneficial.

 

What are the responsibilities of a Peer Counseling Program Coordinator?

Responsibilities typically include overseeing the operations and supervision of a peer counseling program, providing training and guidance to peer counselors, evaluating the effectiveness of the program, and making necessary adjustments to enhance its impact.

They may also liaise with other departments or organizations, handle administrative tasks, and ensure the program adheres to all necessary regulations and guidelines.

 

What skills are important for a Peer Counseling Program Coordinator?

Effective communication and interpersonal skills are crucial as this role involves a lot of interaction with various stakeholders.

They should have strong leadership and organizational skills to manage the program efficiently.

They should also have a deep understanding of counseling techniques and the ability to train others.

Compassion, empathy, and the ability to handle sensitive situations are also important attributes.

 

What should you look for in a Peer Counseling Program Coordinator’s resume?

Look for a strong educational background in counseling or psychology, and prior experience in managing or coordinating counseling programs.

Certifications in counseling and knowledge of the target demographic are pluses.

Evidence of leadership, good organizational skills, and effectiveness in previous roles should also be highlighted.

 

What qualities make a good Peer Counseling Program Coordinator?

A good Peer Counseling Program Coordinator is empathetic and compassionate, with a strong desire to help others.

They should be well-organized, able to multitask, and have strong leadership qualities.

They should also be proactive in identifying areas for improvement in the program and implementing necessary changes.

Understanding of confidentiality and ethical guidelines is also essential.

 

Conclusion

And there we have it.

Today, we’ve lifted the veil on the true essence of being a Peer Counseling Program Coordinator.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about guiding peers.

It’s about shaping a supportive future, one counseling session at a time.

Armed with our essential Peer Counseling Program Coordinator job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your next career move.

But why rest on your laurels?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your stepping stone to meticulously curated job listings or refining your resume to perfection.

Always bear in mind:

Every counseling session contributes to a bigger impact.

Let’s shape that supportive future. Together.

How to Become a Peer Counseling Program Coordinator (Complete Guide)

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