Peer Counselors (PCs) are paraprofessionals who work with students in need of support, under close supervision of licensed professional counselors.
They adhere to the same confidentiality policies as professional counselors. Peer Counselors are available during variable hours, Monday-Friday, while classes are in session. They can offer prompt and helpful support to fellow students.
PCs are located in the Counseling Center in 131 Van Housen Hall, and are available to meet in-person by appointment or walk-in. Note: Walk-ins are dependent on availability.
If you would like to connect with one of our Peer Counselors, please stop in or contact the Counseling Center via email or phone at (315) 267-2330.
Internship as a Peer Counselor
This is a two semester minimum internship. It is expected that students complete the semester long training and at least one following semester of field work (assuming the training is successfully completed and student is moved on as a PC).
Requirements
- 12 credits completed at SUNY Potsdam
- 2.5 or above Cumulative GPA
Application
If you are interest in becoming a Peer Counselor, complete the Peer Counselor Application (PDF) and submit it to this secure file drop location.
PC interns are expected to have a genuine interest in helping people and be willing to devote a semester towards training. The training is an intense part of becoming a PC. Its goal is to teach basic listening, response and helping skills. Training occurs each semester in which there is enough interest. Training will be held every Wednesday from 1 - 3 p.m.
Trainees can expect lecture and discussions throughout the semester. Skills are practiced continuously through role-plays. All personal information shared within training is strictly confidential. Any trainee that breaches confidentiality of a group member will be dismissed from the program.
In order to complete training, all trainees must successfully complete a "final exam" consisting of an individual role-play with Counseling Center staff regarding a high risk situation. Trainees will be expected to assist the "student" through their situation and follow the proper procedure as taught in training.
Not all students who go through training will move forward to be a Peer Counselor.
For more information contact the Counseling Center via email or phone at (315) 267-2330.
Please submit your session notes to the secure file drop location.