25 Peer Support Specialist Interview Questions and Answers

Peer support specialists provide support to people with mental health conditions by sharing their personal experiences with mental illness. They offer hope and understanding to people who are struggling, and help them to get the most out of their treatment.

If you’re interested in becoming a peer support specialist, you’ll need to be prepared to answer questions about your own mental health experiences. You’ll also need to be able to talk about your skills in communication, problem solving, and self-awareness.

In this guide, you’ll find a list of common peer support specialist interview questions and answers. We’ve also included tips on how to best respond to these questions.

1. Are you familiar with the mental health challenges and disabilities that you’ll be working with as a peer support specialist?

This question is a great way for an interviewer to assess your knowledge of the population you’ll be working with. It also helps them understand if you have any experience or training in this area. When answering, it can be helpful to list some common mental health challenges and disabilities that you are familiar with.

Example: “Yes, I am very familiar with the mental health challenges and disabilities that I will be working with as a peer support specialist. During my time in this field, I have worked with individuals who suffer from depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and other mental illnesses. I also have experience supporting those with physical disabilities such as cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, and spinal cord injuries.

I understand how difficult it can be to manage these conditions, and I strive to provide compassionate and understanding support to each of my clients. I believe that everyone deserves respect and dignity regardless of their circumstances, and I work hard to ensure that all of my clients feel heard and understood. My goal is to help them find ways to cope with their mental health issues and disabilities so they can lead fulfilling lives.”

2. What are some of the most important skills you have that make you a good peer support specialist?

This question can help the interviewer get to know you better and understand what skills you have that make you a good fit for their organization. Peer support specialists need to be compassionate, empathetic and able to listen well. They also should be organized and detail-oriented. When answering this question, think about which of your skills are most important in this role and how they can benefit an organization.

Example: “I believe that my ability to connect with people on a personal level is one of the most important skills I have as a peer support specialist. I am able to build strong relationships and trust with those I work with, which helps create an environment where individuals feel comfortable sharing their experiences and struggles.

In addition, I have excellent communication skills, both verbal and written. This allows me to effectively communicate with clients in order to understand their needs and provide them with the best possible care. I also possess strong problem-solving skills, which enable me to quickly identify potential solutions to any issues that may arise.

Lastly, I have extensive knowledge of mental health resources and services available in the community. This enables me to make appropriate referrals for clients who need additional help or support outside of our sessions.”

3. How would you handle a situation where a client is becoming increasingly agitated and you’re unable to calm them down?

Peer support specialists often work with clients who are experiencing a wide range of emotions. Employers ask this question to make sure you have the skills and experience needed to handle challenging situations in the workplace. In your answer, try to explain how you would use your interpersonal skills to calm the client down. Try to show that you can remain calm under pressure.

Example: “If a client is becoming increasingly agitated and I am unable to calm them down, the first step I would take is to remain calm myself. This will help create an environment of safety for both me and the client. Next, I would use active listening techniques to identify any underlying issues that may be causing the agitation. By actively listening, I can better understand the root cause of their distress and provide more effective support.

Once I have identified the source of the agitation, I would then work with the client to develop strategies to manage their emotions in a healthy way. Depending on the situation, this could include providing education about coping skills such as deep breathing or mindfulness exercises, exploring alternative perspectives, or even just offering a listening ear. Finally, if necessary, I would refer the client to other professionals who may be able to provide additional assistance.”

4. What is your process for building trust with a new client?

When working with clients, it’s important to build trust so they feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings. Employers ask this question to see if you have a process for building trust quickly. In your answer, explain how you would use your interpersonal skills to make the client feel at ease. Share an example of a time when you did something similar in the past.

Example: “Building trust with a new client is an important part of my job as a Peer Support Specialist. My process for building trust starts by creating a safe and comfortable environment where the client can feel heard and respected. I like to start off by introducing myself, explaining my role, and asking questions about the client’s experience and needs. This helps me better understand their situation and build rapport.

I also strive to be non-judgmental and empathetic when listening to the client’s story. It is important to show understanding and compassion so that they know they are in a supportive space. Finally, I make sure to provide resources and support that will help them reach their goals. By following this process, I am able to create a trusting relationship with clients and empower them on their journey towards recovery.”

5. Provide an example of a time when you helped a client reach a goal they were struggling to achieve on their own.

An interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your counseling skills and how you apply them in the workplace. When answering, it can be helpful to provide an example that shows a client’s success with reaching their goal and highlights your abilities as a peer support specialist.

Example: “I recently had a client who was struggling to find employment after being out of the workforce for several years. She was feeling overwhelmed and discouraged, so I worked with her to create an action plan that included researching job postings, creating a resume, and practicing interview skills.

We also discussed her strengths and weaknesses and how she could use them to her advantage in interviews. We identified areas where she needed additional training and resources, such as brushing up on computer skills or taking classes to gain certifications.

Through our work together, my client was able to secure a job within two months. She was thrilled with the outcome and thanked me for helping her reach her goal. It was incredibly rewarding to see her succeed and be empowered by her own hard work.”

6. If a client is making progress but still struggling with their mental health, how would you help them stay motivated?

Peer support specialists are often the first point of contact for clients who need help with their mental health. Employers ask this question to make sure you have strategies in place to encourage your clients and keep them motivated when they’re struggling. In your answer, explain how you would use your interpersonal skills to motivate a client and keep them on track.

Example: “If a client is making progress but still struggling with their mental health, I would help them stay motivated by first recognizing and celebrating the progress they have made. It’s important to acknowledge even small successes in order to keep clients encouraged and engaged.

I would also provide emotional support and understanding. Acknowledging that it can be difficult to make changes and offering reassurance can go a long way in helping a client stay motivated. Finally, I would develop an action plan with the client to set achievable goals and create a timeline for meeting those goals. This will give the client something tangible to work towards and measure their progress against.”

7. What would you do if you noticed a coworker treating a client disrespectfully?

Interviewers may ask this question to assess your interpersonal skills and how you would handle a challenging situation. In your answer, try to show that you value the client’s experience and want to maintain a positive work environment for everyone.

Example: “If I noticed a coworker treating a client disrespectfully, my first action would be to speak with the coworker privately. I believe in addressing issues head-on and in a respectful manner. I would explain why their behavior was inappropriate and remind them of our shared commitment to providing excellent care for our clients.

I would also make sure that the client felt safe and respected by offering reassurance and support. Depending on the situation, I might offer to take over the conversation or provide additional resources to help the client. I would also document the incident so that it could be addressed properly. Finally, I would follow up with the coworker to ensure that they understood why their behavior was unacceptable and to discuss ways to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.”

8. How well do you handle stress?

Peer support specialists often work with people who are experiencing a lot of stress. Employers ask this question to make sure you have the ability to manage your own stress and remain calm when working with clients. In your answer, explain how you handle stressful situations. Share an example of a time when you helped someone else cope with stress.

Example: “I believe I handle stress very well. Throughout my years of experience as a Peer Support Specialist, I have had to manage many stressful situations and remain calm in order to provide the best support for my clients. I understand that it is important to stay focused on the task at hand and not let emotions get in the way. To help me stay grounded during difficult times, I practice mindfulness techniques such as deep breathing and positive self-talk. I also make sure to take breaks when needed so that I can come back with a clear head.”

9. Do you have any experience working with clients who have multiple complex needs?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have experience working with clients who may need more support than others. Peer support specialists often work with people who are experiencing homelessness, mental illness or substance abuse issues. These individuals may also be struggling with physical disabilities and other challenges that require additional support.

Example: “Yes, I have experience working with clients who have multiple complex needs. In my current role as a Peer Support Specialist, I work closely with individuals who are struggling with mental health issues, substance abuse, and homelessness. I am well-versed in understanding the unique challenges that come with each of these areas, and I’m able to provide support and guidance to help them navigate their individual struggles.

I also have experience connecting clients to resources within the community, such as housing assistance programs, job training opportunities, and other social services. My goal is always to empower clients to take control of their lives and make positive changes for themselves. I believe this is especially important when dealing with clients who have multiple complex needs, as they may feel overwhelmed or lost without proper guidance.”

10. When is it appropriate to seek outside help for a client?

Peer support specialists often work with clients who have complex issues. Employers ask this question to make sure you know when it’s appropriate to refer a client to another professional for additional help. In your answer, explain that peer support specialists should only refer their clients to other professionals if they feel the client needs more specialized care than they can provide. Explain that you would always try to find a specialist in the same field as the one you’re referring them to before looking elsewhere.

Example: “When working with clients as a Peer Support Specialist, it is important to recognize when outside help may be necessary. In my experience, I have found that there are certain situations where seeking outside help can be beneficial for the client’s wellbeing. For example, if a client is struggling with mental health issues such as depression or anxiety, they may benefit from seeing a therapist or psychiatrist who specializes in these areas. If a client is dealing with substance abuse, it would be appropriate to refer them to an addiction specialist or treatment program. Finally, if a client is facing legal issues or has been involved in a traumatic event, it would be best to refer them to a lawyer or other professional who can provide the necessary assistance. Ultimately, it is important to assess each situation on a case-by-case basis and determine whether outside help is needed. With my expertise in peer support, I am confident that I can make informed decisions about when to seek outside help for my clients.”

11. We want to make sure our clients feel comfortable sharing their experiences. How would you get someone to open up to you?

Peer support specialists need to be able to build rapport with clients and encourage them to open up about their experiences. This question helps the interviewer assess your interpersonal skills and ability to create a safe space for clients to share their stories. In your answer, demonstrate that you can actively listen and empathize with others.

Example: “I understand the importance of creating a safe and comfortable space for clients to share their experiences. To get someone to open up to me, I would start by introducing myself and my role as a Peer Support Specialist. I would then explain that our conversations are confidential and that they can trust me with whatever they choose to share.

Next, I would create an environment where they feel heard and respected. This could include active listening, validating their feelings, and providing empathy. I believe it is important to establish a connection with them so they know that I am here to support them. Finally, I would ask open-ended questions to encourage them to talk about their experiences in more detail.”

12. Describe your experience working with people from different backgrounds and cultures.

Peer support specialists 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 all types of people. Explain how you use your communication skills to help everyone feel welcome and included.

Example: “I have had the privilege of working with people from a variety of backgrounds and cultures throughout my career as a Peer Support Specialist. I believe that it is important to be respectful of all individuals, regardless of their cultural or ethnic background. My experience has taught me how to effectively communicate with clients from different backgrounds in order to provide them with the best possible support.

In particular, I have worked with many clients who come from diverse cultural backgrounds. I take the time to learn about their culture and customs so that I can better understand their needs and provide appropriate support. I also work hard to create an environment where everyone feels respected and valued for who they are. This helps build trust between myself and my clients, which is essential for successful peer support.”

13. What makes you the best candidate for this job?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications and why you are the best candidate for their open peer support specialist position. Before your interview, make a list of all your skills and experiences that relate to this role. Think about what makes you unique compared to other candidates.

Example: “I believe I am the best candidate for this job because of my extensive experience as a Peer Support Specialist. I have been working in this field for over five years and have developed a deep understanding of how to provide meaningful support to individuals facing mental health challenges. My expertise includes providing one-on-one counseling, facilitating group sessions, and developing individualized treatment plans.

In addition to my professional experience, I also bring a strong commitment to helping others. I am passionate about creating an environment where people feel safe and supported while they work through their struggles. I understand that each person’s journey is unique and strive to create a nonjudgmental space where everyone can be heard and respected.”

14. Which mental health challenges do you have personal experience with?

Peer support specialists often have personal experience with mental health challenges. Employers ask this question to make sure you are qualified for the role and can relate to their clients. In your answer, share a specific challenge you’ve overcome in your life. Explain how you overcame it and what skills or resources helped you.

Example: “I have personal experience with a variety of mental health challenges, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder. I was diagnosed with anxiety in my early twenties and since then have worked to manage it through therapy, medication, and lifestyle changes. My experience with depression began in college when I faced significant academic pressures and difficulty adjusting to the new environment. Through counseling and self-care practices, I was able to develop healthy coping strategies that allowed me to move forward. Finally, after serving in the military for five years, I experienced symptoms of PTSD which I continue to work on managing today.”

15. What do you think is the most important thing you can do to support a client?

This question can help the interviewer understand what you value in your role as a peer support specialist. Your answer should reflect your personal values and how they relate to supporting clients.

Example: “The most important thing I can do to support a client is to provide them with an empathetic, non-judgmental environment. This means creating a space where they feel safe and comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings without fear of being judged or criticized. It also involves actively listening to them and providing validation for their experiences. By doing this, I am able to build trust and establish a strong connection with the client, which helps create a foundation for successful peer support. Furthermore, it’s essential that I remain open-minded and flexible when working with clients so that I can best meet their individual needs. Finally, I believe in empowering my clients by helping them identify their own strengths and resources, as well as providing guidance and support as needed.”

16. How often would you meet with each client?

Peer support specialists often meet with clients on a regular basis to discuss their progress and any challenges they’re facing. Interviewers want to know how you would schedule your time to ensure you can provide the best possible care for each client. In your answer, explain how you plan your day or week to make sure you have enough time to meet with all of your clients at least once per week.

Example: “As a Peer Support Specialist, I understand the importance of meeting with clients regularly. My goal is to ensure that each client receives the support they need and deserves. Therefore, I strive to meet with each client at least once per week. Depending on their individual needs, I am open to increasing the frequency of our meetings if necessary.

I also believe in providing my clients with flexible options for communication. In addition to face-to-face meetings, I offer virtual sessions through video chat or phone calls as needed. This allows me to stay connected with my clients even when we are unable to meet in person.”

17. There is a conflict between two clients that you can help resolve. How would you handle it?

Peer support specialists often act as mediators between clients. This question helps employers understand how you would handle a conflict and resolve it in a positive way. Use your answer to highlight your problem-solving skills, communication abilities and interpersonal skills.

Example: “I understand the importance of resolving conflicts between clients. My approach to this situation would be to first listen to both sides and try to understand their perspectives. I believe that it is important to create a safe space for them to express their feelings without judgment or interruption. Once they have had a chance to share, I would then provide guidance on how to come up with a solution that works for both parties. This could involve helping them brainstorm ideas, mediating a discussion, or providing resources such as conflict resolution classes. Ultimately, my goal would be to help them reach an agreement that is mutually beneficial and respectful.

My experience as a Peer Support Specialist has taught me the value of active listening and open communication in order to resolve conflicts. I am confident that I can use my skills to help these two clients find a positive outcome.”

18. What strategies do you use to help a client stay on track with their goals?

The interviewer may ask you this question to learn more about your methods for helping clients achieve their goals. Peer support specialists often work with clients who have mental health issues, so it’s important that you can show how you help them stay on track and avoid relapses. In your answer, describe a specific strategy you used in the past to help someone overcome challenges.

Example: “I believe in providing clients with the tools and resources they need to stay on track with their goals. My approach is to create a supportive environment where clients can feel comfortable expressing themselves, while also helping them to remain focused on their objectives. To do this, I use a combination of active listening, goal setting, problem solving, and positive reinforcement.

Active listening involves really hearing what my client has to say and responding in an understanding way. This helps build trust between us, which is essential for progress. Goal setting allows me to help my client identify short-term and long-term objectives that are realistic and achievable. Problem solving gives us the opportunity to work together to come up with creative solutions to any issues that arise. Finally, positive reinforcement encourages my client to keep going when things get tough.”

19. How would you handle a situation where a client is refusing to accept your support?

As a peer support specialist, you may encounter clients who are resistant to your help. Employers ask this question to make sure that you have the skills and experience needed to handle these situations effectively. In your answer, explain how you would use your interpersonal skills to convince the client to accept your support. Show them that you can be assertive without being aggressive or offensive.

Example: “I understand that it can be difficult for clients to accept support, especially when they are in a vulnerable state. In such situations, I would first take the time to listen and understand where the client is coming from. This helps me build trust with them and shows that I am genuinely interested in helping.

Once I have established a connection with the client, I will then explain why I believe my support may be beneficial to them. I will also provide resources and information about other services available to them if they don’t feel comfortable accepting my help. Ultimately, I want to ensure that the client feels empowered to make their own decisions about what kind of support they need.

If the client continues to refuse my support, I will respect their wishes and offer to connect them with another peer specialist or mental health professional who might be better suited to meet their needs. I believe that it is important to always remain respectful and non-judgmental when working with clients, no matter how challenging the situation may be.”

20. Describe a time when you had to be creative in order to get a client to engage positively with the services we provide.

The interviewer may ask this question to assess your creativity and problem-solving skills. Use examples from previous work experiences where you had to be creative in order to help a client or patient achieve their goals.

Example: “I recently had a client who was resistant to engaging with the services we provide. I knew that traditional methods of engagement weren’t going to work, so I decided to be creative in my approach.

I started by asking them questions about their interests and hobbies outside of our services. We discussed music, sports, books, and other topics they were passionate about. This allowed us to build trust and rapport, which made it easier for me to suggest activities related to our services that would interest them.

For example, I suggested that they try out an art therapy class as a way to express themselves creatively. They agreed to give it a shot and ended up really enjoying it. After that, they were more open to trying other activities related to our services.”

21. Do you have any experience working with clients who are suicidal or self-harming?

Peer support specialists often work with clients who are struggling emotionally. Employers ask this question to make sure you have experience working in these situations and how you handled them. In your answer, share a specific situation where you helped someone who was suicidal or self-harming. Explain what steps you took to help the client.

Example: “Yes, I have experience working with clients who are suicidal or self-harming. During my time as a Peer Support Specialist at my previous job, I had the opportunity to work closely with individuals in crisis and provide them with support and resources.

I understand that these situations can be difficult and emotionally draining, so I always strive to create a safe and comfortable environment for the client. I take the time to listen to their stories and feelings without judgement, while also providing guidance on how they can cope with their current situation. I am also well versed in suicide prevention protocols and have received additional training in this area.”

22. Tell us about your experience creating and leading group activities for clients.

Peer support specialists often lead group activities with clients to help them learn about their emotions and how to express themselves. Employers ask this question to make sure you have experience leading these types of activities. In your answer, explain what type of activities you led and why they were beneficial for the clients.

Example: “I have extensive experience creating and leading group activities for clients. I’ve been a Peer Support Specialist for the past five years, and during that time I’ve had the opportunity to work with a wide variety of individuals in different settings. One of my favorite aspects of this job is facilitating groups and helping people connect with each other.

I believe that providing meaningful opportunities for clients to interact with one another can be incredibly beneficial. As such, I strive to create engaging activities that foster collaboration and connection between participants. I also make sure to tailor these activities to the specific needs of the group, ensuring that everyone feels included and valued.

In addition, I am well-versed in conflict resolution strategies and understand how to effectively manage challenging situations. This has enabled me to lead successful group activities where all members feel respected and heard. My goal is always to provide an environment that encourages open communication and mutual understanding.”

23. How do you make sure that each client understands what they need to do in order to reach their goals?

The interviewer may ask you a question like this one to learn more about your communication skills and how well you can explain things to others. Use examples from past experiences where you helped clients understand what they needed to do in order to achieve their goals.

Example: “When I am working with clients, I make sure to take the time to understand their individual needs and goals. I start by having an open dialogue about what they want to achieve and why it is important to them. This helps me to gain a better understanding of how best to support them in reaching their goals.

Once I have this information, I create a plan that outlines specific steps for the client to take in order to reach their goals. I also provide resources and guidance on how to implement these steps. Throughout the process, I check in regularly with the client to ensure that they are making progress and understand each step of the plan. If there are any areas where they need additional help or clarification, I am available to provide assistance.”

24. In what ways can you help a client transition back into society after a period of isolation?

Peer support specialists often work with clients who have been isolated from society for a period of time. This question helps the interviewer understand how you can help your client reintegrate into their community and social groups. Use examples from your experience to show that you know what steps to take when helping someone transition back into society.

Example: “As a Peer Support Specialist, I understand the importance of helping clients transition back into society after a period of isolation. My experience has taught me that this process can be difficult and overwhelming for many people. To help them through this transition, I focus on providing emotional support and guidance.

I start by listening to my client’s story and understanding their unique situation. This helps me identify any potential challenges they may face during the transition. From there, I create an individualized plan tailored to their specific needs. This plan includes activities such as setting goals, attending social events, and engaging in meaningful conversations with others.

In addition to creating a plan, I also provide resources and referrals to other professionals who specialize in areas such as mental health, housing, employment, and more. Finally, I stay connected with my clients throughout the entire transition process. I check-in regularly to ensure they are making progress and offer additional support when needed.”

25. Are there any ethical considerations you take into account when providing peer support services?

An interviewer may ask this question to assess your ability to maintain a client’s confidentiality and respect their privacy. In your answer, you can describe the steps you take to ensure that you uphold ethical standards while providing peer support services.

Example: “Absolutely. As a Peer Support Specialist, I understand the importance of maintaining ethical standards when providing peer support services. I always strive to ensure that my clients are treated with respect and dignity while also protecting their confidentiality.

I am aware of the power dynamics between myself and my clients, so I make sure to maintain professional boundaries at all times. I also take into account any cultural or religious differences that may affect how I interact with my clients. Finally, I am mindful of the potential for dual relationships and avoid engaging in activities outside of my role as a Peer Support Specialist.”