It has been observed that young people seek peer assistance before approaching adult counsellors for help. A program where older students were trained to provide “helping friend” support for others was developed. Senior students received skills training in basic counselling, adolescent coping, conflict resolution, and group facilitation. The program was designed to tap into the natural helping behaviours of adolescents, the resourcefulness adolescents display in providing support for each other, and the influence which the peer group has during adolescence. This paper describes the process taken in program development and implementation. This included a review of research into adolescent concerns, resources they access, and factors which contribute to coping, personal effectiveness and resiliency. An evaluation of the specific needs of the school community is also outlined.
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