What term is used to describe helpers who share similar age and/or experience with the client?

The term that describes helpers who share similar age and/or experience with the client is "Peer." Peers in a helping context are individuals who can relate to each other based on shared experiences, backgrounds, or developmental stages. This commonality can foster a sense of understanding and trust, which makes it easier for clients to open up and share their challenges.

Peer support is particularly effective in various fields such as mental health, substance use recovery, and youth services, where individuals may feel more comfortable discussing their issues with someone who has gone through similar experiences. This relatability often enhances the effectiveness of the helping relationship, as clients may perceive their peers as more approachable and understanding than more formal helpers.

Mentors, while also providing support, typically have more experience or knowledge in a certain area and may not share the same age or life experience as the mentee. Specialists and advisors often hold specific qualifications or expertise and may focus on providing guidance or solutions based on their professional knowledge rather than sharing personal experience. Therefore, "Peer" is the most appropriate term for helpers who are at a similar stage in life or possess comparable experiences to their clients.