Peer Support Group Facilitator Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s interconnected world, the importance of peer support group facilitators cannot be understated.

As we navigate through life’s challenges, the need for skilled individuals who can guide, cultivate, and protect our emotional and mental wellbeing becomes essential.

But let’s delve deeper: What are the real expectations from a peer support group facilitator?

Whether you are:

• An individual looking to understand the core of this role,
• A recruitment officer assembling the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of facilitating a peer support group,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable peer support group facilitator job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve right into it.

Peer Support Group Facilitator Duties and Responsibilities

Peer Support Group Facilitators guide group sessions, provide emotional support, and assist individuals in managing their personal situations.

They are primarily responsible for fostering a supportive and non-judgmental environment.

Their daily duties and responsibilities include:

• Planning and leading support group sessions
• Creating a safe and supportive environment for discussion
• Encouraging participants to share experiences and feelings
• Monitoring group dynamics to ensure respectful communication
• Providing emotional support and empathetic listening
• Assisting group members in developing coping strategies
• Maintaining confidentiality of group discussions
• Refer participants to additional resources or professional help if necessary
• Collaborating with healthcare professionals to enhance the support process
• Providing feedback to healthcare teams on the progress of group members
• Staying informed about trends and developments in the field of peer support

 

Peer Support Group Facilitator Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are looking for a compassionate and skilled Peer Support Group Facilitator.

This individual will play a vital role in providing emotional and social support to individuals who are experiencing similar situations or challenges.

The Peer Support Group Facilitator will be responsible for leading group discussions, encouraging participation, and promoting a safe and supportive environment for sharing experiences and advice.

Our ideal candidate is empathetic, patient, and possesses strong interpersonal and group facilitation skills.

 

Responsibilities

• Plan and facilitate regular support group meetings
• Create a safe, respectful, and confidential environment for sharing and discussion
• Encourage active participation and engagement from all group members
• Provide emotional support and encourage self-care
• Maintain regular communication with group members
• Monitor group dynamics and intervene as necessary
• Collaborate with healthcare professionals and counselors when necessary
• Stay updated with relevant knowledge and resources for group members
• Provide feedback and report any concerns to the relevant authorities

 

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a similar role, such as group facilitation or counseling
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to relate to and empathize with others
• Understanding of group dynamics and conflict resolution techniques
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and respect privacy
• Basic knowledge of mental health and wellness
• Certification in peer support or counseling is a plus

 

Benefits

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Opportunities for personal growth and community impact

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Peer Support Group Facilitator
• Work Environment: Community setting, with options for remote work depending on the nature of the support group. Some travel may be required for training and community outreach.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Community Services Manager or Mental Health Program Coordinator.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $40,000 minimum to $60,000 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 organization. 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 Support Group Facilitator Do?

A Peer Support Group Facilitator plays a key role in organizing and managing meetings or sessions for individuals who share common experiences, issues, or challenges.

They typically work in various settings like mental health organizations, community centers, schools, or even online platforms.

Their primary responsibility is to create a safe and supportive environment for participants to share their experiences, thoughts, and feelings.

They guide discussions, ensuring that everyone has an opportunity to speak and all voices are respected.

They use their communication and empathy skills to foster open and honest dialogue, encouraging participants to express themselves freely while promoting mutual understanding and respect among group members.

The Peer Support Group Facilitator also provides resources and information to the group members, helping them to find solutions to their problems or ways to cope with their issues.

They monitor the group dynamics, intervening when necessary to manage conflicts or challenges that may arise during the sessions.

They also follow up with members after the sessions, offering additional support or resources as needed.

They may also be responsible for coordinating with other professionals or organizations to provide additional services or resources to the group members.

This could include therapists, social workers, or community services.

In addition, they continually review and evaluate the effectiveness of the group sessions, making necessary adjustments to improve the quality and relevance of the support provided to the group members.

 

Peer Support Group Facilitator Qualifications and Skills

A competent Peer Support Group Facilitator should have the skills and qualifications that align with your job description, such as:

• Effective communication skills to facilitate open and honest conversations within the group, ensuring everyone has an opportunity to express their views and feelings.
• Emotional intelligence to understand and manage the emotional dynamics within the group, ensuring a safe and supportive environment.
• Empathy and understanding, as they’ll be working with individuals who may be dealing with difficult life situations and emotions.
• Active listening skills to fully understand and respond appropriately to the concerns and experiences of group members.
• Leadership skills to guide the group, maintain focus on the group’s purpose and ensure the group is productive and respectful.
• Crisis management skills to handle any emotional or psychological emergencies that may arise during group sessions.
• Conflict resolution skills to address and resolve any disputes or disagreements that may arise within the group, ensuring harmony and mutual respect.
• Knowledge in the specific area of focus (for example, substance abuse, mental health, grief support, etc.) to provide accurate information and support to group members.

 

Peer Support Group Facilitator Experience Requirements

A Peer Support Group Facilitator usually requires a minimum of 1-2 years of experience in a similar role, providing peer support or counseling services, preferably within a group context.

This experience can be gained through volunteer work, internships or part-time roles in mental health or related field.

Those with a background in psychology, social work, counseling, or a related field can also bring useful experience to the role.

Facilitators should have experience leading group discussions and managing group dynamics, as well as knowledge of the challenges and issues faced by the group’s members.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience often have developed their skills in active listening, empathy, and crisis intervention.

They should also be adept at creating an inclusive and safe environment that encourages participation and interaction among group members.

For those with more than 5 years of experience, they may bring a depth of knowledge in the specific subject matter of the group.

They may also have experience in leadership roles, training other facilitators, program development and evaluation, or community outreach.

It’s important to note that lived experience can be a valuable asset in this role.

Many organizations recognize the importance of facilitators who have personally experienced and overcome the same or similar challenges as the group’s members.

This can foster a sense of understanding, trust, and connection within the group.

 

Peer Support Group Facilitator Education and Training Requirements

Peer Support Group Facilitators generally have a high school diploma or an equivalent educational qualification, but a bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, counseling or a related field can be beneficial.

They require training in group facilitation and should have a clear understanding of the group’s focus, whether it’s mental health, substance abuse, or another area.

This knowledge often comes from personal experience or professional training.

Many organizations offer specific training programs for peer support group facilitators, which often include learning about group dynamics, conflict resolution, and confidentiality issues.

To further enhance their skills, many facilitators may undergo training in therapeutic communication, active listening, empathy, and other interpersonal skills.

In some cases, facilitators may need to be certified.

The certification process usually involves completing a specific number of hours of training and passing an examination.

In addition to formal education and training, a Peer Support Group Facilitator should have strong leadership qualities, excellent communication skills, and the ability to empathize with and support others.

They should also be committed to ongoing learning and development in their role.

 

Peer Support Group Facilitator Salary Expectations

A Peer Support Group Facilitator typically earns an average salary of $45,000 (USD) per year.

However, this can vary depending on factors such as the facilitator’s level of experience, qualifications, location, and the organization that they are working for.

 

Peer Support Group Facilitator Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Peer Support Group Facilitator need?

Peer Support Group Facilitators should possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills to understand and respond to the needs of group members.

They should have a strong ability to create a safe, inclusive, and open environment that encourages participation.

Facilitators must also have strong active listening skills, empathy, and the ability to manage group dynamics, which includes diffusing potential conflicts and keeping discussions on track.

 

Do Peer Support Group Facilitators need a degree?

While a degree in psychology, social work, counseling, or a related field can be beneficial, it is not always required for a Peer Support Group Facilitator role.

However, certain certifications or training programs that teach facilitation skills, group dynamics, and the specific issues the group deals with (like addiction, mental health, etc.) can be extremely valuable.

 

What should you look for in a Peer Support Group Facilitator resume?

On a resume, look for previous experience in group facilitation or peer counseling.

Certifications in areas relevant to the group’s focus, like mental health first aid or substance abuse counseling, are also valuable.

Additionally, evidence of strong interpersonal skills, such as conflict resolution or communication skills, can be beneficial.

 

What qualities make a good Peer Support Group Facilitator?

A good Peer Support Group Facilitator is patient, empathetic, and possesses a strong ability to create an environment of trust and openness.

They should be nonjudgmental and supportive, encouraging members to share and participate.

They also need to be resilient and adaptable, able to manage group dynamics and guide discussions, even when they become challenging or emotional.

 

What is the role of a Peer Support Group Facilitator during a session?

During a session, a Peer Support Group Facilitator guides the discussion and ensures that all members have the opportunity to contribute.

They set the tone for respectful and open communication, manage any conflicts that arise, and ensure that the group stays focused on the topic at hand.

They also provide emotional support and resources to group members as needed.

 

Conclusion

There you have it.

Today, we’ve demystified what it truly means to be a Peer Support Group Facilitator.

Surprise, surprise!

It’s not only about leading discussions.

It’s about guiding a healing journey, one group session at a time.

Armed with our go-to Peer Support Group Facilitator job description template and real-life examples, you’re ready to take the next step.

But why stop there?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your key to crafting razor-sharp listings or refining your resume to excellence.

Keep in mind:

Every group session is a step towards a healthier society.

Let’s foster that well-being. Together.

How to Become a Peer Support Group Facilitator (Complete Guide)

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