Peer Support Specialists are people living in recovery with mental illness and / or substance use disorder and who provide support to others whom can benefit from their lived experiences. The North Carolina Certified Peer Support Specialist Program provides acknowledgment that the peer has met a set of requirements necessary to provide support to individuals with mental health or substance use disorder.  The vision for peer support in NC is to develop a qualified Peer Support Specialist workforce that has the support, access, credibility, competency, respect and the valued role within the mental health and substance use disorder service delivery system to positively impact the lives of individuals experiencing mental health and addiction challenges. 

We serve anyone in Moore County suffering from mental health or substance abuse issues.

Drug Free Moore County will oversee the training, certification, placement, and referrals to peer support specialists in Moore County.  Peer Support Specialists will  act as "navigators" to those suffering from mental health and substance abuse issues by providing them with individualized one-on-one counseling as to how best approach their journey to treatment and recovery.  This includes valuable insight into firsthand, lived experiences and connections to important resources and services.

In 2023, Moore County met its goal for training/certifying 6 new peer support specialists.  3 of the 6 Support Specialists received scholarships through the UNC School of Social Work to cover the cost of the 50-hour required Peer Support Specialist training.

In February 2024, NC established the statewide Peer Warmline.  The warmline works in tandem with the North Carolina 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline and is staffed by Peer Support Specialists who offer non-clinical support and resources to those in crisis or need assistance with mental health or substance use recovery. Specialists are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and the service is free and confidential - 1-855-PEERS NC (1-855-733-7762).