District of Columbia
Yes, the District of Columbia does have an endorsed certification process for Peer Support Specialists. It is administered by the DC Department of Behavioral Health (DBH).
The certification process involves a training program, a waiver testing process, and a two-year certification upon successful completion. While the specific details of the process might have been affected by COVID-19, such as temporary adjustments to training formats or testing procedures, there is no evidence of permanent changes to the core certification process due to the pandemic.
In the District of Columbia, the Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) certification for Mental Health Peer Support and Substance Use Peer Support is the same.
In the District of Columbia, specialized peer support roles include Forensic Peer Specialist (FPS), Youth Peer Specialist (YPS), and Family Peer Specialist (FPS). These are not separate certifications but areas of focus within the broader CPS training.
To apply for the Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) training program in the District of Columbia, candidates must meet the following educational requirements:
- High School Diploma or GED: Applicants must have a high school diploma or a General Educational Development (GED) certificate.
There are no additional formal education requirements beyond this. However, having relevant lived experience and demonstrating recovery and stability are crucial for eligibility.
For more details on application requirements, visit the DBH Certified Peer Specialist Program page: https://dbh.dc.gov/service/certified-peer-specialist-program.
To apply for the Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) training program in the District of Columbia, candidates must meet the following personal and professional requirements:
Personal Requirements:
- Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
- Residency: Must be a resident of the District of Columbia.
- Lived Experience: Demonstrate personal experience with mental health conditions, substance use disorders, or co-occurring conditions, showing a period of stability and recovery.
- Commitment to Recovery: Exhibit ongoing personal recovery and an ability to use one’s experience to support others.
For more information, visit the DBH Certified Peer Specialist Program page: https://dbh.dc.gov/service/certified-peer-specialist-program.
To apply for the Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) training program in the District of Columbia, candidates must meet the following personal and professional requirements:
Professional Requirements:
- The competitive application is required and ranked on a points basis. Applications are ranked for previous peer-related training and job experience, and points are then awarded for excellence of answers and for essay questions.
For more information, visit the DBH Certified Peer Specialist Program page: https://dbh.dc.gov/service/certified-peer-specialist-program.
To attend Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) training and obtain certification in the District of Columbia, candidates must:
1. Have Lived Experience: Demonstrate personal experience with mental health conditions or substance use disorders, showing recovery and stability.
2. Education: Hold a high school diploma or GED.
3. Application: Submit an application to the DC Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) with proof of lived experience.
4. Complete Training: Finish an approved CPS training program.
5. Pass Exam: Successfully pass the certification exam.
In the District of Columbia, Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) training costs are generally covered by the DC Department of Behavioral Health (DBH), so participants typically do not pay directly. DBH funds the training and certification process for eligible individuals.
Scholarships: While DBH covers training costs, additional scholarships or financial aid for related expenses (e.g., transportation) may be available through community organizations or nonprofits.
In the District of Columbia, Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) training costs are generally covered by the DC Department of Behavioral Health (DBH), so participants typically do not pay directly. DBH funds the training and certification process for eligible individuals.
Scholarships: While DBH covers training costs, additional scholarships or financial aid for related expenses (e.g., transportation) may be available through community organizations or nonprofits.
In the District of Columbia, Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) training costs are generally covered by the DC Department of Behavioral Health (DBH), so participants typically do not pay directly. DBH funds the training and certification process for eligible individuals.
Scholarships: While DBH covers training costs, additional scholarships or financial aid for related expenses (e.g., transportation) may be available through community organizations or nonprofits.
The District of Columbia offers a certification test for Certified Peer Specialists, administered by the DC Department of Behavioral Health (DBH). The test cost is generally included in the DBH-funded training program, so participants typically do not pay separately. There are no additional application fees. The DBH usually covers the training and certification costs, and while specific scholarships aren’t highlighted, community organizations may offer financial assistance for related expenses like transportation.
In addition to attending training, becoming a Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) in the District of Columbia requires:
- Certification Exam: Pass the certification exam administered by the DC Department of Behavioral Health (DBH).
- Field Practicum: Complete an 80-hour field practicum with a DBH-certified behavioral health provider after finishing classroom training. The certification is valid for two years, after which renewal is required.
A background check is not required for CPS. A background check is required for Family Peer Supporters and Youth Peer Supporters. Specific jobs might require criminal and background checks.
The District of Columbia offers a certification test for Certified Peer Specialists, administered by the DC Department of Behavioral Health (DBH). The test cost is generally included in the DBH-funded training program, so participants typically do not pay separately. There are no additional application fees. The DBH usually covers the training and certification costs, and while specific scholarships aren’t highlighted, community organizations may offer financial assistance for related expenses like transportation.
Certified Peer Specialists (CPS) in the District of Columbia must recertify every two years to maintain their certification. This process ensures that they continue to meet professional standards and stay current with best practices in peer support.
Those seeking or maintaining Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) certification in the District of Columbia may encounter additional costs, including:
- Continuing Education: Costs for ongoing education courses, which may not be covered by DBH.
- Professional Development: Expenses for attending conferences or workshops.
The specific division within the DC Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) responsible for the certification of Certified Peer Specialists (CPS) is the Office of Consumer and Family Affairs. This office oversees the certification, training, and support for peer support services.
Contact Information:
• Mailing Address: DC Department of Behavioral Health, Office of Consumer and Family Affairs, 64 New York Avenue NE, Washington, DC 20002
• Phone: (202) 673-2200
• Website: https://dbh.dc.gov/service/certified-peer-specialist-program
The specific division within the DC Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) responsible for the certification of Certified Peer Specialists (CPS) is the Office of Consumer and Family Affairs. This office oversees the certification, training, and support for peer support services.
Contact Information:
• Mailing Address: DC Department of Behavioral Health, Office of Consumer and Family Affairs, 64 New York Avenue NE, Washington, DC 20002
• Phone: (202) 673-2200
• Website: https://dbh.dc.gov/service/certified-peer-specialist-program
Information about Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) training in the District of Columbia is available through the DC Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) at https://dbh.dc.gov/service/certified-peer-specialist-program.
Training Details:
- Frequency: Trainings are held several times a year. Check the DBH website or contact approved training vendors for specific schedules.
- Formats: Training offerings on the DBH website only indicate they are ""in person."
Information about Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) training in the District of Columbia is available through the DC Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) at https://dbh.dc.gov/service/certified-peer-specialist-program.
Training Details:
- Frequency: Trainings are held several times a year. Check the DBH website or contact approved training vendors for specific schedules.
- Formats: Training offerings on the DBH website only indicate they are ""in person."
In the District of Columbia, Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) training is provided by contracted vendors rather than directly by the DC Department of Behavioral Health (DBH). DBH selects these vendors based on their qualifications and ability to meet specific standards.
Training Providers:
1. Community Connections, Inc.
• Contact: (202) 636-7400
• Website: www.communityconnectionsdc.org
2. NAMI DC (National Alliance on Mental Illness - DC)
• Contact: (202) 546-0646
• Website: www.namidc.org Vendor Requirements:
• Selection Criteria: Vendors must demonstrate experience in peer support training, have qualified trainers, and ensure their programs meet DBH’s standards.
• Responsibilities: They must deliver training that aligns with DBH’s certification criteria and effectively prepares individuals for certification.
Certified Peer Specialists shall complete at least 20 (twenty) hours of continuing education units within the two-year certification period to maintain their certification and be eligible for recertification. The Office of Consumer and Family Affairs (OCFA) publishes an annual list of approved classes, seminars, conferences, workshops, and other activities related to mental health and recovery that serve as acceptable CEUs for CPS. Other courses may qualify for CEU credit with prior approval from the OCFA. Certified Peer Specialists shall report attendance at approved classes to the Office of Consumer and Family Affairs. The OCFA maintains records of CEUs for each CPS.
Certified Peer Specialists shall complete at least 20 (twenty) hours of continuing education units within the two-year certification period to maintain their certification and be eligible for recertification. The Office of Consumer and Family Affairs (OCFA) publishes an annual list of approved classes, seminars, conferences, workshops, and other activities related to mental health and recovery that serve as acceptable CEUs for CPS. Other courses may qualify for CEU credit with prior approval from the OCFA. Certified Peer Specialists shall report attendance at approved classes to the Office of Consumer and Family Affairs. The OCFA maintains records of CEUs for each CPS.
No separate certification for Peer Support Supervisors. However, those in supervisory roles overseeing Certified Peer Specialists are usually senior CPS professionals or qualified practitioners such as psychiatrists, psychologists, independent clinical social workers, advanced practice registered nurses, registered nurses, licensed professional counselors, an independent social worker, or addiction counselors.
In the District of Columbia, the Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) certification for Mental Health Peer Support and Substance Use Peer Support is the same.
In the District of Columbia, specialized peer support roles include Forensic Peer Specialist (FPS), Youth Peer Specialist (YPS), and Family Peer Specialist (FPS). These are not separate certifications but areas of focus within the broader CPS training.
In the District of Columbia, the Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) certification for Mental Health Peer Support and Substance Use Peer Support is the same.
In the District of Columbia, specialized peer support roles include Forensic Peer Specialist (FPS), Youth Peer Specialist (YPS), and Family Peer Specialist (FPS). These are not separate certifications but areas of focus within the broader CPS training.
https://dbh.dc.gov/service/certified-peer-specialist-program
In the District of Columbia, Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) services are Medicaid reimbursable through Medicaid for DC and likely through DC Individual and Family Support (IFS) Waiver (1766.R00.00).
In the District of Columbia, Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) services are Medicaid reimbursable through Medicaid for DC and likely through DC Individual and Family Support (IFS) Waiver (1766.R00.00).
Yes, the District of Columbia allows Certified Peer Specialists (CPS) to offer services virtually. These virtual services are Medicaid reimbursable, provided they adhere to state and federal telehealth regulations, including confidentiality and appropriate use of technology.
Yes, there are peer organizations in the District of Columbia that support Certified Peer Specialists and the broader peer support community. Peer Organizations:
- REASONS TO HOPE FOUNDATION
• Website: https://reasonstohope.org/
• Primary Contact: (202) 779-7527
• Email: [email protected]
- NAMI DC (National Alliance on Mental Illness - DC)
• Website: www.namidc.org
• Primary Contact: (202) 546-0646
• Email: [email protected]
Peer Organizations:
- REASONS TO HOPE FOUNDATION
• Website: https://reasonstohope.org/
• Primary Contact: (202) 779-7527
• Email: [email protected]
- NAMI DC (National Alliance on Mental Illness - DC)
• Website: www.namidc.org
• Primary Contact: (202) 546-0646
• Email: [email protected]
Peer Organizations:
- REASONS TO HOPE FOUNDATION
• Website: https://reasonstohope.org/
• Primary Contact: (202) 779-7527
• Email: [email protected]
- NAMI DC (National Alliance on Mental Illness - DC)
• Website: www.namidc.org
• Primary Contact: (202) 546-0646
• Email: [email protected]
Peer Organizations:
- REASONS TO HOPE FOUNDATION
• Website: https://reasonstohope.org/
• Primary Contact: (202) 779-7527
• Email: [email protected]
- NAMI DC (National Alliance on Mental Illness - DC)
• Website: www.namidc.org
• Primary Contact: (202) 546-0646
• Email: [email protected]
Key DC Contacts:
- DC Department of Behavioral Health (DBH)
• Website: https://dbh.dc.gov
• Phone: (202) 673-2700
• Email: [email protected]
• Key Contact: Trina Logan, Peer Specialist Certification Program Manager
- NAMI DC (National Alliance on Mental Illness - DC)
• Website: www.namidc.org
• Phone: (202) 546-0646
• Email: [email protected]
• Key Contact: Tanya McCoy, Executive Director
No, there are not any routinely held conferences in the District of Columbia. However, individual organizations might locate conferences there periodically due to its proximity to the federal government.
No, the District of Columbia and peer organizations do not have special recognitions or awards to recognize excellence in Peer Support. However, the DC Department of Behavioral Health and NAMI DC will occasionally highlight individuals and organizations that are making significant impacts in mental health advocacy and peer support. These will be highlighted on their news and events sections of their websites.
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Yes, the District of Columbia does have an endorsed certification process for Peer Support Specialists. It is administered by the DC Department of Behavioral Health (DBH).
The certification process involves a training program, a waiver testing process, and a two-year certification upon successful completion. While the specific details of the process might have been affected by COVID-19, such as temporary adjustments to training formats or testing procedures, there is no evidence of permanent changes to the core certification process due to the pandemic.
The DC Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) is primarily responsible for developing the certification and training curriculum for Peer Support Specialists in the District of Columbia. Unknown if peer-led or peer-developed.
Source: DC Department of Behavioral Health: https://dbh.dc.gov/service/peer-specialist-certification-program
A background check is not required for CPS. A background check is required for Family Peer Supporters and Youth Peer Supporters. Specific jobs might require criminal and background checks. & For Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) certification in the District of Columbia, potential disqualifications include:
Personal Disqualifications:
1. Criminal Record: Certain convictions, especially those involving violence or abuse, may disqualify candidates. The DC Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) reviews each case individually.
2. Lack of Stability: Candidates must demonstrate personal recovery and stability. Insufficient evidence of recovery may affect eligibility.
Professional Disqualifications:
1. Transportation Issues: While not a direct disqualification, unreliable transportation can impact the completion of training and practicum requirements.
2. Employment Opportunities: Limited job availability may affect practical application but does not disqualify individuals from certification.
For more information, visit the DBH Certified Peer Specialist Program page: https://dbh.dc.gov/service/certified-peer-specialist-program.
Information about Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) training in the District of Columbia is available through the DC Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) at https://dbh.dc.gov/service/certified-peer-specialist-program.
Training Details:
- Frequency: Trainings are held several times a year. Check the DBH website or contact approved training vendors for specific schedules.
- Formats: Training offerings on the DBH website only indicate they are "in person."
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In the District of Columbia, Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) training is provided by contracted vendors rather than directly by the DC Department of Behavioral Health (DBH). DBH selects these vendors based on their qualifications and ability to meet specific standards.
Training Providers:
1. Community Connections, Inc.
• Contact: (202) 636-7400
• Website: www.communityconnectionsdc.org
2. NAMI DC (National Alliance on Mental Illness - DC)
• Contact: (202) 546-0646
• Website: www.namidc.org Vendor Requirements:
• Selection Criteria: Vendors must demonstrate experience in peer support training, have qualified trainers, and ensure their programs meet DBH’s standards.
• Responsibilities: They must deliver training that aligns with DBH’s certification criteria and effectively prepares individuals for certification.
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