Understand the Peer Specialist role — what it is, what it is not, and why lived experience is the most powerful tool in peer support.

Your personal experience of healing is your greatest asset — and your greatest responsibility. Learn how to use your story purposefully without re-traumatizing yourself or others.

Every word matters. Learn the principles of trauma-informed communication — how to create safety, avoid re-traumatization, and hold space without fixing.

Most people listen to respond. Peer Specialists listen to understand. Master the skills of reflective listening, validation, and presence that make peer support transformative.

Motivational Interviewing (MI) is one of the most evidence-supported approaches in peer support. Learn the core skills — OARS — and how to use them in peer conversations.

Boundaries are not walls — they are the structure that makes sustainable helping possible. Learn to set, communicate, and hold boundaries without guilt.

Effective peer support is structured, not just supportive. Learn how to open, maintain, and close a peer support relationship with intention and care.

You will encounter peers in crisis. Learn to recognize warning signs, respond with calm and clarity, and connect peers to the right resources — including the Veterans Crisis Line.

Peer Specialists have legal obligations. Understand mandatory reporting — what triggers it, how to report, and how to explain it to peers before it becomes necessary.

Many of the women you support will be MST survivors. Learn MST-specific communication, how to avoid common triggers, and how to support healing without re-traumatization.

Substance use is common among trauma survivors. Learn harm reduction principles, how to support peers without enabling, and when to refer to clinical services.

Peer Specialists are often the first point of contact for resource needs. Learn to navigate housing, benefits, and community resources — and know when to refer to a case manager.

Women veterans are not a monolith. Learn cultural humility, intersectionality, and how to provide peer support that honors the full complexity of each person's identity.

You cannot pour from an empty cup. Build a sustainable self-care practice that protects your own healing while you support others — and recognize the signs of compassion fatigue.

Peer support carries ethical responsibilities. Understand confidentiality, dual relationships, professional conduct, and the ethical frameworks that guide the role.

Peer Specialists do not work alone. Understand the supervision structure, how to use supervision effectively, and the continuing education that keeps your skills sharp.

Good documentation protects you and the people you support. Learn what to document, how to document it, and how to maintain confidentiality in your records.

Peer Specialists work alongside clinicians, case managers, and other helpers. Learn how to collaborate effectively, communicate your role, and advocate for the people you support.

The Her H.O.P.E. Reset™ Peer Specialist network is a community of practice. Learn how to contribute to, learn from, and strengthen the network you are joining.

You are not just a helper — you are a leader. Reflect on the Peer Specialist identity you are building, the impact you will have, and the legacy you are creating.

Practice makes permanent. Work through realistic peer support scenarios with structured feedback — building confidence and competence before your first real session.

Peer support increasingly happens online. Learn best practices for video, phone, and text-based peer support — and how to maintain connection and safety in remote settings.

Advanced module: supporting peers in acute crisis. Learn how to stay regulated, apply de-escalation, and coordinate with emergency services when needed.

Complete the program with a comprehensive practice plan — your approach to peer support, your boundaries, your self-care strategy, and your first 90 days as a Peer Specialist.