You bring up an important consideration when it comes to the peer helper. When I put programs in place in private industry or large companies, we do the same thing. There isn't an official way to access peer support. In other words, the person who needs help seeks out a person of their choosing. If you look at the OSISS website, you will see a map of Canada with all the names of those who are available. If you're in Petawawa and you'd like to speak with Janet in Winnipeg, you can call long distance. The cost of the call is covered by taxpayers, but that's okay. People are talking.
That's a fundamental difference from the medical system, which is very much planned and extremely dogmatic. The medical system relies on reference material and prescriptions. The peer support system conflicts with that philosophy. It's a complementary system. Philosophically, it's a huge departure, but it's not a problem. The peer support system doesn't work like that.
My answer is affirmative. The individual chooses the person she feels comfortable with.