Is there a state-endorsed certification process?
Yes
Does the state differentiate between Mental Health Peer Support Specialists and Substance Use Peer Support Specialists?
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?
Must be 21 years of age or older
What are the professional requirements needed to apply for a peer specialist training program?
Must have 2 references.
What are the training requirements to become a Certified Peer Specialist?
Must attend and complete a 5-day training. Training begins promptly at 8:30AM each day and ends at 5PM.
What is the average cost for CPS training?
Training is currently free.
Who is responsible for paying for training? (List all)
Training is currently free.
Other potential funding sources.
Lodging support stipends may be available.
Is there a state-wide certification test?
Yes.
What are the personal/professional requirements for certification, if they differ from attending the training?
25 clock hours of supervision regarding the 4 domains of a peer recovery specialist.
Verification of agreement to IBC professional code of ethics.
Is a background check required? If so, is a criminal record a disqualification for certification?
A background check does not appear to be required, except in the case of credential revocation, suspension or termination.
What is the cost of the certification test?
$165 for test, which includes 2 years of certification. $105 (if retakes are needed)
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?
CEU Processing $ 15.00 (per workshop via distance learning or not IBC-approved for recertification) Recertification is required every 2 years. Fee is $ 50.00
Is there a statewide certification body?
Yes.
Please provide as much information about the certification board/body as possible.
Iowa Board of Certification (IBC)
225 NW School St., Ankeny, IA 50023
phone: 515-965-5509
fax : 515-965-5540
Where can information be found for upcoming peer support trainings?
On average, how often are trainings held in your state?
Quarterly basis.
Training providers (vendors) and their contact information.
IowaPeerSupportTraining.org
[email protected]
The Iowa Department of Human Services (IDHS) contracted with the University of Iowa’s (UI) Division of Child & Community Health (DCCH) to train the Peer Support and Family Peer Support workforce in Iowa.
What are the continuing education requirements?
PRS need 20 clock hours of continuing education during the two-year certification period to qualify for recertification.
Six (6) of the clock hours must be in ethics.
The remaining hours must be in relevant topics
No more than 10 clock hours may be earned through online/distance learning for each certification period. To receive college credit for clock hours a minimum grade of “C” is required. One semester hour equals 15 clock hours. One quarter hour equals 10 clock hours. If college courses are being used, an original transcript must be sent from the college to the IBC office.
Who tracks CEUs?
"The PRS must maintain records of continuing education credit for submission with the Application for Recertification. IBC does not keep records of a PRS's credits. Recertification applications will be audited; if chosen for an audit, the applicant will b
Is there a certification requirement for CPS Supervisors? If yes, provide details of requirements and relevant information.
Specialized training is available but supervisor certification is not required.
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?
Yes
How are peer support services paid for by the state? What specific Medicaid waivers are used, if any?
1915 b 3 waiver through a Medicaid Choice Organization
Is digital peer support available? Medicaid reimbursable?
Is there a statewide Peer Specialist organization?
No.
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?
Are there recognition or award opportunities for peer support specialists or Substance Use Peer Support Specialists?
Helpful Websites/ References*
https://iowapeersupporttraining.org/family-peer-support-specialist/
https://www.iowabc.org/sites/default/files/pdf/prs_handbook.pdf
https://dhs.iowa.gov/sites/default/files/1957-MC-FFS_1915_b_3_PeerSuppo…
https://www.iowabc.org/sites/default/files/pdf/prs_application.pdf
https://www.iowabc.org/mhpss
https://www.iowabc.org/sites/default/files/pdf/prs_fees.pdf
Additional Info*
If there are recent changes to the certification process due to COVID-19, are the changes permanent, temporary or other?
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