What Peer Support Can—and Cannot—Do
Peer support extends recovery into everyday life but must remain voluntary, person-centered, relationship-focused, and clear about clinical boundaries.
Peer workers use shared understanding, respect, and mutual empowerment to help people engage in recovery. They may mentor, share resources, build skills, strengthen community, and support goals.
What matters in practice
Good peer support is recovery-oriented, person-centered, voluntary, relationship-focused, and trauma-informed. The person receiving support directs the goals.
The boundary
Peer coaching does not replace emergency services, medical care, therapy, psychiatry, withdrawal management, medication, or licensed treatment.
Primary source
Official source: https://www.samhsa.gov/substance-use/recovery/peer-support-workers
Educational scope: This article does not provide diagnosis, treatment, medical advice, legal advice, or emergency services.