Frequently Asked Questions
How is SHARE Peer Support Different from the Counseling and Mental Health Center or Other Peer Programs?
SHARE Support Specialists offer non‑clinical, nonhierarchical peer support that’s distinct from mentorship or education roles. Their focus is connection and empathy, making them a complementary resource for student well‑being. Peer support is not a replacement for clinical mental health care, which some students may still need for more complex concerns.
To break it down further:
What Training Do Peer SHARE Support Specialists Receive?
SHARE Support Specialists are UT Austin undergraduate and graduate students who have completed the Mental Health First Aid certification and a semester of training in active listening, motivational interviewing and group facilitation. They know campus resources well and can help their peers locate additional support options. SHARE Support Specialists are trained in peer support, but they do not provide licensed mental health services.
Are SHARE’s Resources and Activities Confidential?
SHARE Communities are confidential peer support groups, and facilitators emphasize ““what is heard here, stays here” to build trust, comfort and safety. The same goes for SHARE Circles, group connection and storytelling activities. Protecting privacy is a central component of the Longhorn SHARE Project.
As in any confidential setting, the only exception is when a SHARE Support Specialist believes someone may be at imminent risk of serious harm to themselves or others. If unsure, they consult with their Program Coordinator. Staff and students prioritize transparency and involve peers in decisions whenever possible to support both safety and autonomy.
Are SHARE Support Specialists Mandatory Reporters?
SHARE Support Specialists are not considered mandatory reporters under Title IX and are therefore not required to submit reports based on information shared in SHARE spaces. Students seeking support related to interpersonal violence are encouraged to connect with the Title IX Office, Student Outreach and Support and/or Voices Against Violence clinical staff.
How Can My Program or Organization Collaborate With SHARE?
Do you have an idea for a peer support-related project or initiative we could work on together? We are always open to new ideas and love to collaborate with campus partners! Send us an email at longhornshareproject@utexas.edu and a staff member will follow up with you in 2-3 business days.
Can SHARE Staff Provide Trainings for Groups of Staff, Faculty or Students?
Yes, SHARE provides training for staff, faculty and students at UT Austin. Longhorn SHARE Project staff facilitate the Longhorn Wellness Center’s Active Listening and Supportive Communication workshop, and our Coordinator Adrian Lancaster is a trained Adult Mental Health First Aid instructor. To request MHFA, please email longhornshareproject@utexas.edu.
Note: MHFA is a full 8-hour course that offers a 3-year certification. There is no fee for the course itself, but the requesting group will be responsible for covering the cost of the participant training manuals (roughly $19 per person). For more information visit the Mental Health First Aid website.
Visit the Longhorn Wellness Center’s workshops page for additional workshop options that may meet your group’s needs.
Does The Longhorn SHARE Project Have an Email Listserv I Can Join?
Yes, SHARE has an email listserv for UT students with a monthly newsletter written by the SHARE Student Advisory Group. Subscribe to the listserv.