Peer counseling demand surges 30% as Rat auf Draht expands support for young people

Rat auf Draht has seen a sharp rise in demand for its peer counseling service. In 2025, sessions jumped by 30%, reaching 264 in total. The organization now plans to expand its team to meet the growing need for support among young people.

The service began as a pilot in 2021, offering structured chat sessions for those aged 16 to 23. Topics like friendship, bullying, and relationships are discussed every Wednesday from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. While peer counselors provide guidance, they do not handle crisis cases—these are passed to trained professionals instead.

To cope with the surge in demand, Rat auf Draht will recruit 50 additional peer counselors. This expansion aims to quadruple the current team size. Applications are open to young people aged 16 to 23, with a deadline set for March 15, 2026.

The structured format of the sessions has made them a reliable resource for many. Each chat follows predefined themes, ensuring focused and helpful discussions for participants.

The organization's move to hire more counselors reflects the service's growing importance. With 264 sessions held in 2025, the expansion will help maintain support for young people seeking advice. Applications for new roles close in March 2026.