In Washington, peer counseling is an approved Medicaid service. In order to bill Medicaid, contracted agencies must use individuals who have met the state requirements, taken the approved class, and passed the state test.
Peer counseling duties can vary widely, but they are all based on the effectiveness of assistance and support from people who have shared life experience who are living in recovery. Peer counselors use their own stories in helping others develop hope and improve their lives. Peer counseling may be provided by adults, youth, or by parents or legal guardians in assisting families.
Peer support can be provided in many other settings as well, such as consumer-run organizations and housing programs. The Division of Behavioral Health and Recovery peer support program, however, is specifically designed to prepare individuals to work in a Medicaid-funded setting.