Peer counselors and classmates are at the same level and the same generation. They are enthusiastic and professionally trained students who are engaged in consulting work among their classmates. Their role is similar to that of "peer consultants", and they are closer to students in social status and emotional distance, so they are more likely to gain the trust and acceptance of students.

General counselors are generally appointed by schools or departments to manage student affairs and provide guidance and help to students. Their work scope may include curriculum management, student activity organization, student psychological consultation and so on.

Generally speaking, peer counselors are more focused on providing emotional support and psychological counseling, while ordinary counselors are more inclined to provide management services and transactional help.