Peer Counselor Training Program A Guide to Effective Peer Mentoring

1. Peer Counselor Training Program A Guide to Effective Peer Mentoring www.laitinenacademy.com

2. Table of Contents: 1.Introduction 2.Program Overview 3.Goals and Objectives 4.Who Are Peer Counselors? 5.Core Competencies 6.Training Modules 7.Ethical Guidelines 8.Communication Skills & Active Listening 9.Mental Health Awareness & Boundaries 10.Crisis Response and Referral Protocol 11.Supervision, Support & Evaluation 12.Benefits of Peer Counseling 13.Resources and References 14.Contact Information

3. 1. Introduction: Peer counselor training program is a powerful tool for fostering community-based emotional support and encouraging help-seeking behaviors. Peer counselors are not licensed therapists but are trained to provide support, encouragement, and guidance to individuals navigating personal, academic, or emotional challenges. This guide is designed to develop confident, compassionate, and capable peer mentors through structured training and guided practice.

4. 2. Program Overview This peer counselor training program introduces the foundational principles of peer mentoring. It is adaptable for high schools, universities, nonprofits, youth services, and wellness organizations. Participants will receive training in empathy- based support, mental health awareness, communication skills, and crisis navigation. The program blends theory and practice, with workshops, role-play, scenario discussions, and reflection exercises. 3. Goals and Objectives Build knowledge of mental wellness, stress, and peer dynamics. Teach effective communication and de-escalation techniques. Develop leadership and mentorship confidence. Empower trainees to respond appropriately and responsibly in peer situations. Provide a referral framework to connect peers with professional help when needed.

5. 4. Who Are Peer Counselors? Peer counselors are trained volunteers—students, youth leaders, or community members—who provide emotional and practical support to others within the same community. They: Serve as approachable, relatable support figures. Offer active listening and nonjudgmental guidance. Help bridge the gap between peers and professionals. 5. Core Competencies of Peer Counselors Empathy & Compassion Nonjudgmental Attitude Listening Without Fixing Cultural Humility Self-Awareness & Self-Care Understanding Limits of the Role

6. 6. Training Modules Module 1: Introduction to Peer Counseling History and purpose Boundaries and expectations Understanding peer vs. professional roles Module 2: Communication & Active Listening Verbal and nonverbal communication Open-ended questions Paraphrasing, validating, and reflecting Module 3: Mental Health Basics Recognizing signs of stress, anxiety, and depression Myths vs. facts about mental illness When to refer a peer

7. Module 4: Ethics & Boundaries Confidentiality and its limits Avoiding dual relationships Personal safety and self-care Module 5: Crisis Response & Referral Recognizing crisis situations Suicide awareness (QPR or similar training) Creating a resource/referral map Module 6: Leadership & Peer Empowerment How to lead peer groups Building trust and safe spaces Team collaboration and communication

8. 7. Ethical Guidelines Maintain confidentiality unless there is a risk of harm. Respect all individuals regardless of background. Avoid giving direct advice—encourage self-reflection. Always consult a supervisor or staff member in unclear situations. Document interactions where necessary. 8. Communication Skills & Active Listening Peer counselors must be trained to: Listen with the intent to understand, not respond. Use empathy-driven responses like “That sounds really difficult.” Avoid minimizing, judging, or problem-solving unless invited. Use silence effectively to give space.

9. 9. Mental Health Awareness & Boundaries Understanding the basics of common mental health issues helps peer counselors identify when a peer may need professional intervention. The training also emphasizes: Avoiding burnout Setting emotional and time boundaries Recognizing their own limits 10. Crisis Response and Referral Protocol What is considered a “crisis”? Suicide ideation, abuse disclosure, or harm-to-self/others require immediate referral. Trainees are taught to use calm language, de-escalate tension, and follow institutional protocols for emergencies.

10. 11. Supervision, Support & Evaluation Regular check-ins with program supervisors or staff. Monthly peer support groups for counselors. Evaluation methods include self-reflection forms, supervisor feedback, and scenario assessments. 12. Benefits of Peer Counseling Improves mental health awareness across communities Encourages early help-seeking behavior Empowers youth and students with leadership roles Fosters a more supportive and inclusive culture Provides meaningful volunteer or leadership experience 13. Resources and References Laitinen Academy Recommended readings on peer support and mental health Optional certifications (QPR, Mental Health First Aid)

11. 14. Contact Information Email: hello@laitinenacademy.com Phone: (262) 574-2227 Website: www.laitinenacademy.com