Wilshire Network Sites
Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT IS THE SENIOR PEER COUNSELING PROGRAM?
The Program provides counseling and supportive services to those individuals age 60 and over, who are experiencing emotional distress involving such issues as health problems, grief, loss, care-giving, depression, anxiety, or family difficulties. This unique program offers the only service addressing the emotional and psychological needs of seniors in San Luis Obispo County. These services can be offered in the individual’s home. Volunteer counselors are professionally trained to help other older adults attain optimum well-being, maintain independence, and enhance life satisfaction. There is no charge for the service, though clients are offered the opportunity to make donations.
WHO ARE SENIOR PEER COUNSELORS?
Senior Peer Counselors include men and women, age 55 and over, who are committed to offering a caring, supportive service to their peers age 60 and over. Counselors are chosen for their qualities of personal warmth, non-judgmental attitude, empathy, genuineness, respect for others, and varied life experiences.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF PEER COUNSELING FOR CLIENTS?
Many people believe they should be able to solve their problems on their own with no outside support. Seeking help is often perceived as a sign of personal weakness. When individuals have a chance to meet with someone their own age who has had to cope with similar issues, discussion about personal feelings may be easier. Support and non-judgmental encouragement from a peer can enable a senior to develop the coping skills to effectively deal with emotionally stressful situations. In the comfort of one’s own home, privacy and confidentiality are assured.
Counselors serve as positive role models by demonstrating that seniors can continue to contribute to their community and can enjoy an active life. Peer Counselors are also able to expand the support system for clients by connecting them with other available community resources.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF BEING A PEER COUNSELOR?
Peer counseling provides a fulfilling experience to the volunteer and at the same time is beneficial to the senior. It offers structure to daily life and expands social supports. In addition to providing a new sense of identity and increased self-esteem, it establishes a link with the community and allows for personal growth and development through the opportunity to master new skills.
WHAT ARE EXPECTATIONS AND REQUIREMENTS OF VOLUNTEERS?
Individuals accepted as Senior Peer Counselor Trainees complete the training conducted by volunteer mental health professionals. After graduation, counselors are assigned a maximum of three clients to be seen once a week for one hour. Counselors are then required to attend weekly two-hour supervision and continuing education sessions, facilitated by a mental health professional.
HOW IS THE PROGRAM FUNDED AND WHO SPONSORS THE SENIOR PEER COUNSELING PROGRAM?
Senior Peer Counseling is a program of Wilshire Community Services, a division of the not-for-profit Wilshire Health and Community Services, Inc. Other funding sources include the Mental Health Services Act, County of San Luis Obispo, the City of San Luis Obispo through its Human Relations Commission, fundraising events and donations. A Program Advisory Council made up of community volunteers guides Senior Peer Counseling. SPCP is a member of the American Association of Senior Peer Counseling and the American Society on Aging. The program has been operating in the county since 1992.