What is a common misconception about peer counseling?

Peer counseling is often misunderstood as simply being a form of friendship, which overlooks the structured and purpose-driven nature of the practice. While peer counselors do build relationships and supportive networks with those they counsel, the primary aim is to provide assistance based on training, empathy, and active listening skills rather than casual companionship. Peer counseling involves a commitment to help others navigate personal challenges and work toward specific goals, setting it apart from informal friendships that lack those focused objectives.

Understanding peer counseling as something more than on a purely social level highlights its effectiveness in creating a safe space for individuals to discuss their issues, receive guidance, and feel validated in their experiences. The formal training that peer counselors undergo equips them with tools and strategies to facilitate growth, offer support, and connect individuals to resources, making it a structured form of assistance rather than mere friendship.