Hawaii

See something which needs to be changed, corrected, or updated? Let us know!
Is there a state-endorsed certification process?: 

Yes

Does the state differentiate between Mental Health Peer Support Specialists and Substance Use Peer Support Specialists?: 

No specific certification for substance use peer support specialists - Mental Health Peer Support Specialist (HCPS) handbook specifically states: "Have a primary diagnosis of mental illness or co-occurring disorder. A single, primary
diagnosis of a substance use disorder does not meet certification requirements"

What are the educational requirements to apply for a peer specialist training program?: 

High School Diploma or GED

What are the personal requirements to apply for a peer specialist training program?: 

Be at least age eighteen (18) years of age or older; Have a primary diagnosis of mental illness or co-occurring disorder.
A single, primary diagnosis of a substance use disorder does not meet certification requirements;
Must self-identify as a person who has received or is receiving mental health or co-occurring services as part of his or her personal recovery process;
Must have demonstrated a minimum of twelve consecutive months in self-directed recovery in the last two years. Self-directed recovery includes experience in leadership, advocacy, and peer support.

What are the professional requirements needed to apply for a peer specialist training program?: 



What are the training requirements to become a Certified Peer Specialist?: 

Successfully complete an AMHD OCA-approved Peer Specialist Training Program.
Other evidence-based or best practice Peer Specialist Training Programs may be considered if appropriate documentation related to the program’s curriculum, requirements and competencies is submitted to OCA.
For information on recognized trainings and/or facilitators, contact the Office of Consumer Affairs at (808) 586-4688.

What is the average cost for CPS training?: 

Who is responsible for paying for training? (List all): 



Other potential funding sources.: 



Is there a state-wide certification test?: 
Yes, individuals must successfully pass both oral and written examinations.
What are the personal/professional requirements for certification, if they differ from attending the training?: 

Application requires 3 completed professional references, a signed HCPS Code of Ethics, a signed HCPS Spore of Activities, a signed intention to become a certified and employed HCPS, and Have successfully demonstrated mastery of recovery competencies through testing and evaluation as required by a Peer Specialist Training Programs recognized by the Office of Consumer Affairs.

Is a background check required? If so, is a criminal record a disqualification for certification?: 



What is the cost of the certification test?: 

Does the certification test need to be taken regularly to maintain certification?: 

No, only continued education requirements to maintain certification.

Aside from any fees for the training or state-wide certification test, are there other certification fees/costs?: 

Is there a statewide certification body?: 

Yes

Please provide as much information about the certification board/body as possible.: 

State of Hawai'i, Department of Health, Adult Mental Health Division (AMHD) Main Office: Kinau Hale
1250 Punchbowl Street
Honolulu, Hawaii 96813
Phone: (808) 586-4400
Fax: (808) 586-4444

Where can information be found for upcoming peer support trainings?: 

For information on recognized trainings and/or facilitators, contact the Office of Consumer Affairs at (808) 586-4688.

On average, how often are trainings held in your state?: 

Training providers (vendors) and their contact information.: 

For information on recognized trainings or facilitators, please contact the Office of Consumer Affairs at (808) 586-4688.

What are the continuing education requirements?: 

HCPSs must complete 16 hours of continuing education trainings, seminars, workshops, or college courses each year.
Note: Online trainings can be counted towards this annual requirement however must not exceed 8 hours out of the 16 required.
HCPSs who are employed by Hawaii Adult Mental Health Division-funded programs may count provider agency in-service trainings as required by AMHD toward the 16 required hours. Successful completion of part or all of a Peer Specialist Training Program recognized by OCA may count toward continuing education if it was not used to obtain initial certification.

Who tracks CEUs?: 
"Individual; At the end of each year, each HCPS must submit a continuing education verification form for each training event. The information outlined below is required to confirm successful completion of continuing education trainings. 1. Certificate of
Is there a certification requirement for CPS Supervisors? If yes, provide details of requirements and relevant information.: 

No certification requirements, however HCPSs who are employed by AMHD-funded programs must be under the general supervision of a mental health professional in accordance with acceptable guidelines and standards of practice as defined by the State.

Additional specializations available for certified peer specialists:: 



What are the different acronyms used to distinguish peer supporters and specific peer support specialties?: 

HCPS - Hawaii Certified Peer Specialist

Are Certified Peer Specialists services Medicaid reimbursable?: 

Yes

How are peer support services paid for by the state? What specific Medicaid waivers are used, if any?: 

Funded by Adult Mental Health Division (AMHD) and Medicaid Rehabilitation Option (MRO) program

Is digital peer support available? Medicaid reimbursable?: 



Is there a statewide Peer Specialist organization?: 



Name of Statewide Peer Specialists Organization: 



Peer Specialists Organization Website: 



Peer Specialists Organization Primary Contact: 



Other relevant/helpful contacts:: 



Are there conferences held in the state specifically for Peer Supporters?: 



Helpful Websites/ References: 

https://health.hawaii.gov/amhd/consumer/hcps/

https://health.hawaii.gov/amhd/files/2013/06/HCPS-Handbook.pdf