Navigating our advancing years can be challenging, even for those with a strong support network. Now, imagine crossing those same waters alone, without friends or family to turn to for support. Our Peer Counseling program works to ensure no one faces the challenges of aging alone. Specially-trained volunteer counselors provide weekly visits to adults age 55+ to help manage transitions and life changes such as health concerns, mobility issues, caregiver needs, and grief. Special care is taken to connect participants with someone who shares similar life-experiences and perspectives, with programs offered in languages such as English, Mandarin, Spanish, Tagalog, African American community, and to participants who identify as LGBTQIA+.

How does it work?

After applying, participants are matched with a volunteer Peer Counselor who often shares a similar background, native language, and life experiences. Participants can choose to join a group session or request one-on-one counseling.

Individual peer counseling sessions take place weekly over the phone, a zoom conference call, or in-person when comfortable. Group sessions are offered in a variety of languages in Daly City, San Mateo, Redwood City, and the Coast side. Email info@pfso.org to learn more about the application process.

Who qualifies?

Our Peer Counseling program is open to adults age 55+ who live in San Mateo County and can benefit from the program.

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Can I become a counselor?

To become a Peer Counselor, volunteers participate in two, three and a half-hour training sessions each week for a total of five weeks. During the sessions, volunteers learn the skills they need to be active listeners, recognize and respond to grief, depression, and anxiety, and work with diverse cultures. Volunteers who speak Mandarin, Tagalog, or Spanish, African American Community, or who identify as LGBTQIA+, are encouraged to apply!

Prospective volunteer counselors should:

Be age 55+
Live in San Mateo County
Be a good listener
Have reliable transportation
Be able to devote at least one hour a week to meet with a participant
Be able to attend monthly group supervision meetings
Have the ability to lead Zoom conference calls

Volunteer applications are accepted year-round, with training sessions taking place in the Spring and in the Fall.

To become a Peer Counselor, you can either fill out the Request for Application available online, or contact via e-mail or via phone at (650) 403.4300 Ext. 4389.

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2024 training dates:

Spring Training is TBD

To register via e-mail or call (650) 403.43.00 Ext. 4389

If you are age 55+, you can change the lives of older adults in our community.

Peer Counseling Forms