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Peer Support Specialist

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Scholarships Are Currently Available!

A Peer Support Specialist is a professional who uses personal experiences with mental health or substance use challenges to support others. They work in various settings, such as hospitals and community centers, providing one-on-one support, leading group sessions, and connecting individuals with resources. Key traits include empathy, resilience, communication skills, patience, and resourcefulness. By offering hope and guidance, they help reduce stigma, promote mental wellness, and build a more supportive community, making this role invaluable to society.

Salary Range

Education & Timeframe

  • Start Your Journey: Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, or a related field Duration: ~4 years
  • Advance Your Expertise: Master’s Degree in Mental Health Counseling, Social Work, or a related field Duration: ~2 years
  • Gain Experience: Internships or work experience in mental health clinics, peer support programs, or community health organizations. Stay current with peer support strategies, mental health best practices, and recovery protocols.

Scholarship Opportunities

  • The Nevada Public Health Foundation, Inc. is promoting workforce development and employee retention through the Social Work Workforce Development Scholarship program. Each scholarship, up to $1,000, may be awarded to social work students who work with the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) as employees, interns, practicum students, volunteers, or contractors. For more information contact: info@nphf.org
  • The Behavioral Health Education, Retention, and Expansion Network of Nevada (BeHERE NV) is offering a scholarship for UNLV students pursuing careers in behavioral health, to address the state’s mental health workforce shortage and improve access to care. This scholarship not only provides financial support but also opens doors to valuable educational and professional opportunities, empowering students to make a meaningful impact in their communities. Please contact roberta.miranda@unlv.edu for more information.

Academic Institutions

Additional Information

Career Choices & Growth

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