New Hampshire

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?: 

Yes, Substance Use Peer Support Specialists can be certified by the Office of Professional Licensure and Certification Board of Licensing for Drug and Other Addiction Professionals as a "Certified Recovery Support Worker." Mental Health Peer support specialist and requirements are overseen by the BMHS.

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

Depends on program

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

Depends on program

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

Depends on program

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

Generally this training is provided by a peer support agency under He-M 402.05.

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 administered through the Bureau of Mental Health Services- DHHS
What are the personal/professional requirements for certification, if they differ from attending the training?: 

Meet quarterly with a peer trained in intentional peer support (IPS) for a peer review to evaluate effectiveness of IPS and to review the principles of IPS;

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



What is the cost of the certification test?: 
N/A
Does the certification test need to be taken regularly to maintain certification?: 

N/A

Aside from any fees for the training or state-wide certification test, are there other certification fees/costs?: 
N/A
Is there a statewide certification body?: 

N/A

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

N/A

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

Contact Ayla.Kendall@dhhs.nh.gov

On average, how often are trainings held in your state?: 
Depends on agency -- annually or twice a year.
Training providers (vendors) and their contact information.: 

Training is provided by various state trainers in IPS and WRAP. The BMHS oversees the training schedule. Anyone can contact Ayla Kendall at the BMHS for more information regarding training/schedules etc.

What are the continuing education requirements?: 

Receive annually:

(i) One evidence based practice training;
(ii) Client rights training; and
(iii) One suicide prevention training.

Who tracks CEUs?: 

Is there a certification requirement for CPS Supervisors? If yes, provide details of requirements and relevant information.: 

No, however:
All staff providing IROS shall be supervised by a supervisor who:
(1) Provides program administration and coordinates such services with other service providers to assure continuity of recipient service;
(2) Has at least 3 years of full-time employment experience in programs for persons with long term mental illness or SED;
(3) Has at least one year of supervisory, management, or administrative experience;
(4) Has a baccalaureate degree or higher in social work, rehabilitation, psychology, education, or a related human services field; and
(5) Has received training in the Illness Management and Recovery Evidence Based Practice Kit (2010), available as listed in Appendix A, if the staff will be providing IMR.

Additional specializations available for certified peer specialists:: 



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



Are Certified Peer Specialists services Medicaid reimbursable?: 

The Bureau of Behavioral Health (part of the New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services) does contract with multiple agencies across the state to provide peer support. A list can be found at: https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/dcbcs/bbh/peer.htm
Peer support is currently billable under the Functional support services code.

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

New Hampshire uses 'braided' funding streams, including general revenue from the state, SAMHSA block grants for training purposes, and Medicaid reimbursement through functional support services.

Is digital peer support available? Medicaid reimbursable?: 

Yes, through local peer support agencies. "Services include, but are not limited to: face-to-face and telephone peer support; outreach; monthly educational events; activities that promote self-advocacy; wellness training; after hours warm line; crisis respite (24 hours, short-term, non-medical crisis program)."

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:: 

Direct contact in the BMHS for Peer support information Ayla.Kendall@dhhs.nh.gov or 603-271-9719

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

The Peer support agencies have an annual conference for mental health Peer specialists.

Are there recognition or award opportunities for peer support specialists or Substance Use Peer Support Specialists?: 



Helpful Websites/ References: 

https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/dcbcs/bbh/peer.htm

Additional Info: 



If there are recent changes to the certification process due to COVID-19, are the changes permanent, temporary or other?: 

N/A