CTRI ACHIEVE

Counselling Skills and Client Relations

Wellness for Helpers

Peer Support

Equipping the Natural Helper

Peer support programs empower people to help others using shared experience. This training teaches practical peer support skills that improve connection and resilience.

Start Learning View Upcoming Dates

Available for Private Delivery

Certificate Included

Build Effective Peer Support Programs

When challenges in life occur, people naturally reach out for support from those closest to them – coworkers, friends, and family. Their initial response can go a long way in terms of normalizing the challenge, planning the next steps, and exploring additional resources. Progressive workplaces and communities recognize the importance of being prepared for challenges, and are proactive in better equipping natural helpers with the skills they need to be a supportive resource to others. This workshop explores the support process, key qualities of the peer helper, and issues that may arise when assisting others. This is an interactive and experiential training where participants will work through activities designed to enhance their communication, develop helping skills, and learn practical strategies for supporting others.

Learning Objectives

Define peer support

Summarize benefits and challenges to a peer support role

List counselling skills that are part of a peer support process

Describe steps for a peer to guide a conversation

12,500+

Professionals Trained

4.7 Stars

Trustpilot Rating

500+

Organizations Served

Choose Your Format

Training options built for real-world needs.

Most Popular

On-Demand Workshop

Recorded workshop for flexible, self‑paced learning.

$149

/ per person

Start right away – no scheduling required

Learn at your own pace, in manageable sections

Follow along with a full downloadable manual

Earn a certificate and continuing education credits

Access anytime, on any device

Share access across your team for consistent learning

Live Virtual Workshop

Interactive sessions with experienced facilitators.

From $349

/ per person

Learn from an experienced facilitator

Ask questions and get real-time guidance

Connect and learn alongside peers

Engage in discussions and practical exercises

Earn 6 CECs per day of training

Receive a certificate upon completion

View Upcoming Dates

Personalized training solutions for your team.

Starting at

$2150

per session

Additional Options

On-Demand Webinar

Condensed training in a video format.

Standalone written learning resource.

What You'll Learn

Walk away with the knowledge and tools to make a meaningful difference. The objectives below outline what you'll be equipped to do after completing this training.

Peer Support Foundations

Learn peer support principles.

Communication Skills

Practice listening techniques.

Boundaries and Roles

Clarify helper limits.

Recognize When to Refer

Know when professional help is needed.

Support Recovery

Encourage resilience.

Sustain the Helper

Prevent burnout in peer supporters.

Our Approach

Grounded in research, practical application, and real‑world experience.

Accessible

Clear, approachable learning without unnecessary jargon.

Applicable

Content designed for real‑world challenges and opportunities.

Engaging

Facilitators bring content to life through stories and examples.

Practical

Skills and tools designed for everyday use in your setting.

What People Are Saying

Insights from our participants.

"

It's not always easy to facilitate a six-hour session, but it flew by. Perfectly timed, packed with useful, relevant information, curated to address the unique needs of our group."

K. Decle

University of British Columbia, Office of Student Academic Services

"

This was one of the best trainings our organization has had. Staff were so engaged and came away energized and excited rather than tired and drained."

T. Etienne

Portal Youth Outreach Association

"

CTRI is a great source for learning. They were easy to work with and our facilitator presented in an engaging and interactive way that kept people interested and attentive."

J. Grimes

Optimism Place Women's Shelter and Support Services

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about the training.

This training is for:

Mental health professionals

Social services and community‑based professionals

First responders and emergency services

Health care workers and support staff

School and post‑secondary personnel

Leaders, managers, and supervisors

Human resources and people operations teams

Employees in corporate or business settings

Anyone working in people‑centred or support roles

What is peer support?

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Peer support is a form of helping in which people with shared lived experience offer support, connection, and encouragement to others navigating similar challenges.

Who is this training for?

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This training is designed for peer supporters, community volunteers, natural helpers, and organizations building or strengthening peer support programs.

Does the training address limits and referral?

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Yes. Participants learn how to recognize the limits of peer support and when to refer to professional services – a critical skill for safe and ethical peer helping.

Does this training address burnout in peer supporters?

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Yes. Sustaining peer supporters is included as a key concern, with practical strategies for maintaining personal well-being while supporting others.

Is this training available online or privately?

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Yes. CTRI offers this workshop in live, on-demand, and private formats. This is a popular training for community organizations, workplaces, and Indigenous communities. Contact us to arrange a session.

Can this training be customized for our peer support program?

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Yes. CTRI can tailor this workshop to suit your program model, sector, and community. Contact us to discuss your specific needs.

Equip Peer Supporters with Practical Skills

Learn communication and boundary-setting skills that equip peer supporters to make a real difference. View training options or bring this workshop to your team.

Start Learning View Upcoming Dates

Available for Private Delivery

Certificate Included