Is there a state-endorsed certification process?
On 9/25/20 State Peer Certification (SB803) was signed into law in California. More information on the specifics of the certification process will be soon to come.
Does the state differentiate between Mental Health Peer Support Specialists and Substance Use Peer Support Specialists?
Yes. There is funding for SUDS/PS is currently available through a Medicaid Waiver.
What are the educational requirements to apply for a peer specialist training program?

To seek Certification as Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist an individual must meet the following qualifications:

1. Be at least 18 years of age.
2. Possess a high school diploma or equivalent degree.
3. Be self-identified as having experience with the process of recovery from a mental illness or substance use disorder, either as a consumer of these services or as the parent, caregiver or family member of a consumer.
4. Be willing to share their experience.
5. Have a strong dedication to recovery.
6. Agree, in writing, to adhere to the Code of Ethics.
7. Successfully complete the 80-hour training requirements for a peer support specialist through a CalMHSA-approved training entity.
8. Pass the certification examination.

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

1. Be at least 18 years of age.
2. Possess a high school diploma or equivalent degree.
3. Be self-identified as having experience with the process of recovery from a mental illness or substance use disorder, either as a consumer of these services or as the parent, caregiver or family member of a consumer.
4. Be willing to share their experience.
5. Have a strong dedication to recovery.

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

To seek Certification as Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist an individual must meet the following qualifications:
Agree, in writing, to adhere to the Code of Ethics.
Successfully complete the 80-hour training requirements for a peer support specialist through a CalMHSA-approved training entity.

Pass the certification examination.

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


Successfully complete the 80-hour training requirements for a peer support specialist through a CalMHSA-approved training entity.
 

What is the average cost for CPS training?
varies by agency
Who is responsible for paying for training? (List all)
varies by agency
Other potential funding sources.
varies by agency
Is there a state-wide certification test?

Yes.

What are the personal/professional requirements for certification, if they differ from attending the training?

1. Be at least 18 years of age.
2. Possess a high school diploma or equivalent degree.
3. Be self-identified as having experience with the process of recovery from a mental illness or substance use disorder, either as a consumer of these services or as the parent, caregiver or family member of a consumer.
4. Be willing to share their experience.
5. Have a strong dedication to recovery.
6. Agree, in writing, to adhere to the Code of Ethics.
7. Successfully complete the 80-hour training requirements for a peer support specialist through a CalMHSA-approved training entity.
8. Pass the certification examination.

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

N/A

What is the cost of the certification test?
Does the certification test need to be taken regularly to maintain certification?

No

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?

yes

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

The certification is administered by the California Mental Health Services Authority (Certifying Entity) through established policies, procedures, and documents specific to the certification program. Peer Support Specialists certified through the certification program administered by CalMHSA will be recognized as Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialists by all counties who elect to participate in the Medi-Cal Peer Benefit under agreement with the Department of Health Care Services.

Where can information be found for upcoming peer support trainings?
On average, how often are trainings held in your state?

varries

Training providers (vendors) and their contact information.
What are the continuing education requirements?

To maintain certification, renewal is required every two years. Applicants must complete twenty (20) hours of continuing education, inclusive of six (6) hours of law and ethics training, before submitting a renewal application and paying the renewal fee. Continuing education hours hold significant value for Certified Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialists (CMPSS) as they contribute to the enhancement of their knowledge, skills, and understanding of mental health and substance use conditions. This enables them to provide more effective and informed support to their peers. These hours serve as a catalyst for professional growth, allowing a CMPSS to stay updated on best practices and interventions, and ultimately improving the quality of care they offer to the individuals they serve. Complete applications for renewals may be submitted no more than 90 days prior to expiration. Renewals submitted after the certification expiration date may be subject to additional training, fees, and/or completing an Initial Application process

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

Yes. Individuals considering peer support specialist supervision work must meet one of the following option qualifications:

Option 1

  • Have a Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist Certification; and
  • Have two (2) years of experience working in the behavioral health system; and
  • Have completed an approved supervisory training.

 

Option 2

  • Be a non-peer behavioral health professional, including a registered or certified substance use disorder counselor; and
  • Have worked in the behavioral health system for a minimum of two (2) years; and
  • Have completed an approved supervisory training.

 

Option 3

  • Have a high school diploma or general equivalency degree (GED)
  • Have four (4) years of behavioral health direct service experience. May include peer services.
  • And have completed an approved supervisory training.

 

https://copelandcenter.com/sessions/supervision-and-support-peer-suppor…

Additional specializations available for certified peer specialists:
What are the different acronyms used to distinguish peer supporters and specific peer support specialties?

PSS

Medi-CAL PSS

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?

N/A

Is digital peer support available? Medicaid reimbursable?
N/A
Is there a statewide Peer Specialist organization?

yes

Name of Statewide Peer Specialists Organization*
CAMHPRO
Peer Specialists Organization Website*
Peer Specialists Organization Primary Contact*


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