25 Peer Support Interview Questions and Answers

Peer support is a critical role in many industries, but it is especially important in the mental health field. A peer support specialist is someone who has experienced a mental health challenge and has recovered to the point where they are able to offer hope and support to others who are currently going through a similar experience.

If you are considering a career in peer support, you will likely be asked questions about your experience during the interview process. Review the questions and answers below to help you prepare for your interview.

1. Are you comfortable working with people who have mental health issues?

Peer support specialists often work with people who have mental health issues. Employers ask this question to make sure you’re comfortable working in this type of environment. In your answer, explain that you are willing to learn about different types of mental illnesses and disorders. Explain that you would be open to learning more about these conditions if you don’t already know much about them.

Example: “Absolutely. I have been working as a Peer Support for the past five years, and during that time I have had the opportunity to work with people who are dealing with mental health issues. I understand how difficult it can be to manage these issues, and I am passionate about helping those in need. I believe that everyone deserves support and understanding when they are struggling, and I strive to provide that kind of care to my clients.

I also have experience providing emotional support to individuals who are facing challenges related to their mental health. I am familiar with different types of therapies and techniques used to help people cope with their issues, and I am comfortable discussing sensitive topics such as suicide prevention or substance abuse. My goal is to create an environment where my clients feel safe and supported, while also encouraging them to take steps towards improving their overall wellbeing.”

2. What are some of the most important skills for a peer support specialist to have?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have the skills necessary to succeed in this role. Peer support specialists must be compassionate, empathetic and good listeners. They should also be able to communicate effectively with others. When answering this question, make sure to mention a few specific skills that are important for this position.

Example: “I believe that the most important skills for a peer support specialist to have are effective communication, empathy, and active listening.

Effective communication is essential in order to build trust with clients and ensure that both parties understand each other. It also allows us to provide clear instructions and guidance when needed. Empathy helps us to relate to our clients on a deeper level and better understand their needs. Finally, active listening ensures that we are truly understanding what our clients are saying and responding appropriately.

These three skills are necessary for any successful peer support specialist as they allow us to create meaningful relationships with our clients and help them reach their goals.”

3. How would you handle a situation where two people in your group were arguing?

Peer support professionals must be able to resolve conflicts between clients. Employers ask this question to make sure you have conflict resolution skills and can help people work through disagreements. In your answer, explain how you would handle the situation in a calm and productive way. Explain that you would try to understand both sides of the argument and help them find a solution together.

Example: “If two people in my group were arguing, I would first take a step back and assess the situation. It is important to remain calm and professional while also being empathetic towards both parties. I would then approach each person individually and listen to their perspective without judgement or interruption. After gaining an understanding of the issue, I would encourage them to come together and talk it out.

I believe that communication is key when resolving conflicts, so I would provide guidance on how they can effectively communicate with one another. This could include providing tips on active listening and using “I” statements. Finally, I would offer resources such as counseling services if needed. My goal is to help create a safe and supportive environment where everyone feels heard and respected.”

4. What is your process for identifying and addressing your own personal biases?

Peer support professionals must be able to recognize their own biases and work to overcome them. Employers ask this question to make sure you have the ability to do so. In your answer, explain how you would go about recognizing your biases and working to change them.

Example: “My process for identifying and addressing my own personal biases begins with self-reflection. I take time to think about how my experiences, values, and beliefs may be influencing my interactions with others. I also strive to stay open-minded and recognize that everyone has different perspectives and backgrounds.

I am constantly learning from the people around me and actively seek out feedback on how I can improve in this area. I have found it helpful to ask questions of those who are more experienced than myself and to read up on topics related to bias and inclusion. This helps me to gain a better understanding of the issues at hand and allows me to adjust my approach accordingly.”

5. Provide an example of a time when you successfully helped someone overcome a mental health issue.

This question can help interviewers understand your experience and skills in peer support. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe a specific situation where you helped someone overcome an issue or challenge. It can also be beneficial to mention the steps you took to help them.

Example: “I recently had the opportunity to help a friend who was struggling with depression. I started by listening and validating their feelings without judgement. After they felt heard, we discussed different coping strategies that could be used in times of distress. We talked about how physical activity can help boost moods and how journaling can be an effective way to express emotions.

We also discussed the importance of having a strong support system and I encouraged them to reach out to family and friends when needed. Finally, I provided resources for professional help if necessary. Through our conversations, my friend began to feel more empowered and confident in managing their mental health. It was incredibly rewarding to see them take control of their wellbeing and make positive changes in their life.”

6. If one of the people in your group was struggling, how would you determine the best way to help them?

Peer support specialists need to be able to assess the needs of their peers and provide them with appropriate assistance. This question helps employers understand your problem-solving skills and ability to help others in a variety of situations. In your answer, describe how you would evaluate the situation and determine the best way to help your peer.

Example: “When someone in my group is struggling, I always start by taking the time to listen and understand their situation. It’s important to create a safe space for them to express their feelings without judgement or pressure. After listening to their story, I would then assess what kind of help they need. This could include providing emotional support, helping them find resources, or connecting them with professionals who can provide more specialized assistance.

I also believe it’s important to empower individuals to take ownership over their own healing process. I strive to provide guidance and support while encouraging people to explore different solutions and make decisions that are right for them. Finally, I will continue to check-in with them throughout their journey to ensure they have the necessary tools and resources to reach their goals.”

7. What would you do if you noticed that one of the people in your group was consistently late to meetings?

Peer support is often about helping others, but it can also be about helping yourself. Interviewers want to know that you’re willing to help your peers improve their behavior and show up on time for meetings. Your answer should include a specific example of how you helped someone in the past with this issue.

Example: “If I noticed that one of the people in my group was consistently late to meetings, I would first take a moment to assess why they may be having difficulty arriving on time. It could be due to an underlying issue such as transportation or childcare issues. If this is the case, I would work with them to find solutions to these problems.

I would also make sure to have open and honest conversations about their tardiness. I believe it’s important to show empathy and understanding while still addressing the problem. I would explain how their lateness affects the rest of the group and suggest ways to help them arrive on time.”

8. How well do you think you can get to know someone in just a few meetings?

Peer support is a unique role that requires you to get to know your clients quickly. Employers ask this question to make sure you understand the importance of getting to know someone in just a few meetings and how you can do so effectively. Use examples from past experiences to show them that you can form strong relationships with people in a short amount of time.

Example: “I believe I am very capable of getting to know someone in just a few meetings. As a Peer Support, it is important to build trust and rapport quickly with the people you are working with. My experience has taught me that by actively listening, asking open-ended questions, and being genuine and nonjudgmental, I can create an environment where individuals feel comfortable opening up and sharing their story.

I also understand the importance of creating boundaries and setting expectations early on so that both parties have clear guidelines for our relationship. This helps ensure that we are both on the same page and allows us to focus on the individual’s needs without any confusion or misunderstandings.”

9. Do you think it’s important for peer support specialists to have personal experience with the issues they’re helping others with?

Peer support specialists often work with people who are going through challenging situations. Employers ask this question to make sure you have the personal experience needed to help others effectively. In your answer, explain why it’s important for peer support specialists to be able to relate to their clients. Share a story about how having personal experience helped you better understand what someone was going through.

Example: “Absolutely. I believe that having personal experience with the issues you’re helping others with is essential to being a successful peer support specialist. Having gone through similar experiences myself, I understand how important it is for people to have someone who can relate and empathize with them. It helps build trust and rapport between the client and the specialist, which in turn makes it easier for the client to open up and share their struggles.

Additionally, my own experiences give me insight into what strategies worked best for me when dealing with difficult situations. This allows me to provide more effective guidance to those I’m working with, as well as help them find solutions that are tailored to their individual needs. Finally, having experienced similar challenges also gives me a greater appreciation for the courage and strength of those I am supporting.”

10. When is it appropriate to offer direct advice to someone?

The interviewer may ask this question to assess your ability to provide support without overstepping boundaries. Peer support specialists should be able to offer advice when it’s appropriate, but they should also know when to refer a client to someone else for more direct assistance. In your answer, explain the situations in which you would feel comfortable giving advice and those in which you would not.

Example: “When it comes to offering direct advice, I believe that the most important factor is understanding the individual’s situation and needs. It’s essential to take into account the person’s background, experiences, and values before providing any kind of advice.

I understand that as a Peer Support, it can be tempting to give direct advice in order to help someone quickly. However, it’s important to remember that each person’s journey is unique and requires an individualized approach. As such, I always strive to provide support by listening carefully and helping them to identify their own solutions.

At times, when appropriate, I may offer suggestions or resources that could be helpful for the individual. Ultimately, my goal is to empower the person to make decisions that are best suited for their particular circumstances.”

11. We want to encourage our peer support groups to be open and honest. How would you define the term “peer support” and what does it mean to you?

This question is a great way to see how the candidate defines peer support and what they think it means. It also gives you an idea of their knowledge on the subject. You can use this as an opportunity to explain your own definition of peer support if you feel that the candidate’s answer was unclear or incorrect.

Example: “Peer support is a form of emotional and social support provided by individuals who have shared similar experiences. It involves providing understanding, validation, encouragement, and guidance to others in order to help them cope with their current situation. To me, peer support means creating an environment where people feel safe to express themselves without judgement or fear of repercussions. It also means being able to listen actively and provide meaningful feedback that can help the individual come to terms with their feelings and make decisions that are best for them. As a Peer Support, I strive to create a space where everyone feels comfortable enough to share their stories and be vulnerable. My goal is to empower each person to find their own solutions and build resilience through meaningful connections.”

12. Describe your process for keeping notes during a meeting.

Peer support professionals often meet with clients to discuss their progress and challenges. Keeping notes during these meetings is an important part of the job, so interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your note-taking skills. In your answer, describe how you take notes in a way that’s helpful for yourself and others.

Example: “I believe that taking notes during a meeting is an essential part of being an effective Peer Support. I have developed a process for keeping track of important information and conversations that take place in meetings.

The first step is to make sure that I am actively listening to the conversation, so that I can capture all the key points. During the meeting, I will jot down any relevant information or ideas that come up. I also like to ask questions throughout the discussion to ensure that I understand what is being discussed and to clarify any points that may be unclear.

Once the meeting has concluded, I review my notes and organize them into categories based on the topics discussed. This helps me to easily reference back to specific points if needed. Finally, I store my notes in an organized manner, either digitally or physically, so that they are easy to find when needed.

This process ensures that I am able to accurately capture the details of each meeting and provide meaningful support to those involved.”

13. What makes you an ideal candidate for a peer support position?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications for the role. They want someone who is empathetic, compassionate and patient. Peer support professionals must also be able to communicate effectively with others. When you answer this question, try to highlight your interpersonal skills and ability to work as part of a team.

Example: “I believe I am an ideal candidate for a peer support position because of my extensive experience in this field. I have been working as a Peer Support for the past five years and have developed strong relationships with clients, colleagues, and community members. My experience has allowed me to develop a deep understanding of how to effectively provide emotional and practical support to individuals who are struggling with mental health issues.

In addition, I have a passion for helping others and enjoy being able to make a positive difference in people’s lives. I am patient, empathetic, and non-judgmental when it comes to providing support and guidance. I also have excellent communication skills which allow me to build trust and rapport quickly with those I work with. Finally, I am highly organized and can manage multiple tasks at once while ensuring that all deadlines are met.”

14. Which peer support models do you have the most experience with?

Peer support models are a way to categorize the different ways that peer support is delivered. The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your experience level and how you might fit into their organization. In your answer, try to share which models you have used in the past and what you liked or disliked about them.

Example: “I have experience with a variety of peer support models, including the SAMHSA-endorsed Peer Support Core Competencies Model. This model focuses on providing support to individuals in recovery from mental health and substance use disorders through shared experiences, empathy, and mutual respect. I also have experience with the WRAP (Wellness Recovery Action Plan) model, which is based on self-advocacy and self-determination. It emphasizes personal responsibility for one’s own wellness and encourages people to develop their own individualized plan for recovery. Finally, I am familiar with the HOPE (Helping Others Pursue Excellence) model, which promotes collaboration between peers and professionals to create an environment of hope and empowerment.”

15. What do you think is the most important thing to remember when working with people who are going through similar experiences?

This question can help the interviewer get a better idea of your interpersonal skills and how you interact with others who are going through similar experiences. Peer support specialists need to be empathetic, compassionate and able to listen well when working with people who have gone through similar situations.

Example: “The most important thing to remember when working with people who are going through similar experiences is that everyone’s journey is unique. It is essential to be mindful of the fact that each individual will have their own set of challenges and successes, and it is important to respect and honor this individuality.

At the same time, it is also important to recognize that there can be a sense of solidarity among those who have gone through similar experiences. By creating a safe space for individuals to share their stories and feelings, we can foster an atmosphere of understanding and support. This can help create a strong bond between peers, which can lead to more meaningful conversations and better outcomes.”

16. How often do you think peer support meetings should be held?

Peer support meetings are an important part of the peer support role. Employers want to know that you understand how often these meetings should be held and why they’re necessary. When answering this question, it can be helpful to refer to your previous experience with peer support meetings.

Example: “I believe that peer support meetings should be held on a regular basis. This allows for consistency and helps to ensure that everyone is getting the most out of the meetings. I think it’s important to have at least one meeting per week, but depending on the needs of the group, more frequent meetings may be necessary.

At each meeting, I would suggest having an agenda so that all members are aware of what topics will be discussed. This way, everyone can come prepared with questions or ideas they want to share. It also provides structure to the meetings which can help keep them focused and productive.”

17. There is a discrepancy in the feedback you’re getting from the group and the feedback you’re getting from your supervisor. How do you handle it?

This question is designed to test your ability to handle conflict and resolve it. Peer support professionals must be able to work with others, including supervisors, in a collaborative way. Your answer should show that you can communicate effectively and respectfully with all parties involved.

Example: “When I am faced with a discrepancy between the feedback I’m getting from my supervisor and the group, I take time to evaluate both perspectives. First, I assess what is being said by each party and try to understand where they are coming from. Then, I look for common ground between the two opinions and see if there is an opportunity to bridge any gaps. Finally, I use active listening skills to ensure that everyone feels heard and respected in the process.

I believe it’s important to be open-minded when addressing these types of situations, as well as remain calm and professional. My goal is always to find a solution that works for everyone involved and maintain positive relationships. With my experience in peer support, I have developed strong communication and problem-solving skills which I can bring to this position.”

18. Describe the most difficult situation you have ever faced as a peer support specialist and how did you resolve it?

This question is an opportunity to show your problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe a situation that you were able to overcome or resolve successfully.

Example: “The most difficult situation I have ever faced as a peer support specialist was when I had to help a client who was struggling with severe depression and suicidal ideation. This person was very resistant to any kind of help, so it was hard for me to make progress in our sessions.

I knew that the best way to approach this situation was to be patient and understanding. I took my time to get to know them better and build trust between us. I also created a safe space where they could talk openly about their feelings without feeling judged or criticized. Finally, I provided resources such as therapy and support groups that could help them cope with their depression.”

19. What do you think is the best way to handle disagreements between members of the group?

Peer support groups are often made up of people with different opinions and backgrounds. Employers ask this question to make sure you can work well with others despite your differences. Use your answer to show that you’re willing to compromise and respect the opinions of others.

Example: “When it comes to disagreements between members of a group, I believe the best way to handle them is with open communication and understanding. It’s important to create an environment where everyone feels comfortable expressing their opinions without fear of judgement or criticism. To do this, I would start by encouraging each person to share their perspective on the issue at hand and actively listen to what they have to say. This will help ensure that all perspectives are heard and respected.

Once everyone has had a chance to express themselves, I would then facilitate a discussion about how to move forward in a way that takes into account everyone’s needs and concerns. By taking the time to understand each other’s points of view, we can work together to find a solution that works for everyone. Finally, I would encourage ongoing dialogue so that any future disagreements can be addressed quickly and effectively.”

20. How would you respond if someone in your group expressed suicidal thoughts?

Peer support specialists often work with people who are struggling emotionally. Employers ask this question to make sure you have the skills and experience needed to help someone in crisis. In your answer, explain how you would respond to a person expressing suicidal thoughts. Explain that you would use active listening techniques to show them you care about their feelings.

Example: “If someone in my group expressed suicidal thoughts, I would take it very seriously and respond with empathy. My first priority would be to ensure the person’s safety by providing them with resources such as a crisis hotline or mental health professional. I would also provide emotional support by listening without judgement and validating their feelings.

I understand that this can be an incredibly difficult situation for everyone involved, so I would strive to create a safe space where they feel comfortable expressing themselves. I would encourage them to talk about their feelings and help them identify coping strategies that work best for them. Finally, I would make sure to follow up with them regularly to check in on their progress and provide ongoing support.”

21. What methods do you use to ensure that everyone’s needs and perspectives are being heard during meetings?

Peer support is a role that requires you to listen and understand the needs of others. Employers ask this question to make sure you have experience facilitating meetings and ensuring everyone’s voice is heard. In your answer, explain how you plan group discussions and ensure all participants feel comfortable sharing their thoughts.

Example: “I believe that everyone should have a voice in meetings, and I strive to ensure that all perspectives are heard. To do this, I use several methods. First, I make sure that the meeting agenda is clear and that everyone knows what topics will be discussed. This allows each person to come prepared with their thoughts on the subject.

Next, I actively listen to each person’s point of view and give them time to express themselves fully. I also encourage others to ask questions or offer feedback so that no one feels left out. Finally, I summarize the discussion at the end of the meeting to ensure that everyone’s views were taken into account.

By using these methods, I am able to create an environment where everyone can feel comfortable expressing their opinions and ideas. This helps to foster collaboration and ensures that all needs and perspectives are being heard.”

22. Are there any mental health issues you feel particularly passionate about or comfortable discussing?

This question can help the interviewer get a sense of your interests and passions. It also helps them determine if you have any experience or expertise in a specific area that might be beneficial to their organization. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention an issue you feel passionate about and why.

Example: “Yes, absolutely. I am passionate about mental health awareness and destigmatizing conversations around mental health issues. I have a great deal of experience in this area from my previous role as a Peer Support Specialist.

I feel particularly comfortable discussing topics such as depression, anxiety, trauma, and substance use disorder. I understand the importance of creating an open environment where individuals can discuss these issues without fear or judgement. In my past roles, I have been successful at providing support to people struggling with these issues through active listening, empathy, and understanding.

Additionally, I believe that it is important to provide resources and education on mental health topics so that individuals can make informed decisions about their own care. I have experience developing educational materials for clients and leading group discussions on various mental health topics.”

23. Do you think that peer support groups should be facilitated by professionals, or can they work without one?

This question is a great way to see how you feel about peer support groups and the role of professionals in them. It also helps employers understand your philosophy on working with peers, which can be important for this type of position. When answering this question, it can be helpful to explain why you think professionals should or shouldn’t facilitate these types of groups.

Example: “I believe that peer support groups can be very effective without a professional facilitator. Peer support is based on the idea of individuals helping each other through shared experiences and understanding, which can be just as powerful when facilitated by peers rather than professionals.

That said, I do think there are certain situations where having a professional facilitator can be beneficial. For example, if a group is dealing with complex or difficult issues such as mental health, addiction, or trauma, it may be helpful to have a trained professional present in order to ensure that everyone’s needs are met and that the conversation remains productive.”

24. Describe your experience working with people who have different backgrounds than yours.

Peer support professionals often work with people from different backgrounds and cultures. Employers ask this question to make sure you have experience working with a diverse group of people. Use your answer to explain that you are comfortable working with people who are different than you. Explain how you use your communication skills to help everyone feel included.

Example: “I have had the opportunity to work with people from a variety of backgrounds throughout my career in Peer Support. I believe that everyone has something valuable to contribute, regardless of their background or experience. My approach is to create an open and respectful environment where all voices can be heard and respected.

I strive to understand each person’s unique perspective and experiences, and use this understanding to provide tailored support for them. For example, when working with someone who speaks a different language than me, I take the time to learn some basic phrases so that I can better communicate with them. This helps to build trust and respect between us and allows me to provide more effective support.”

25. Are there any resources or techniques you use when providing emotional support to people in need?

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your experience providing emotional support and how you use resources or techniques to help others. When answering, consider the specific skills or methods that helped you provide effective peer support in previous roles.

Example: “Yes, absolutely. As a Peer Support professional, I have developed a number of resources and techniques that I use to provide emotional support to people in need.

One resource I often use is active listening. This involves really paying attention to the person who is speaking and reflecting back what they are saying so that they feel heard and understood. I also like to ask open-ended questions to help the individual explore their feelings and thoughts more deeply.

I also believe it’s important to create a safe space for the person to express themselves without judgement. To do this, I practice unconditional positive regard which means accepting someone as they are without any expectations or conditions.”