Is there a state-endorsed certification process?

Yes

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

Nevada still has only one designation for PRSS as previously stated. We do now have 2 endorsements: Problem Gambling and Trauma Informed Care. To obtain an endorsement, individuals most already be certified PRSS for 1 year and complete specialized trainings in the topic. There are no acronyms for the endorsements, just a separate certificate.

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

A high school diploma or jurisdictionally certified high school equivalency is required.

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

Individuals with lived experience in recovery from substance use, mental health, or co-occurring challenges.
Must be in recovery for at least two years prior to certification. Recovery is characterized by continual growth and improvement in one’s health and wellness that may involve setbacks. Because setbacks are a natural part of life, resilience becomes a key component of recovery.

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

None for training community training track. If applicant chooses University Training track they must meet University of Nevada, Reno's admission requirements

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

No requirement to take the training. Certification requirements are: complete training, have a HS diploma or equivalent, 18 years old, live/work in NV 51% of time, complete 475 experience hours, complete 25 supervision hours, pass exam, and pay fees

What is the average cost for CPS training?

Peer Recovery Support Specialist Training Course through Foundation for Recovery is free CASAT offers an online, self-paced: Peer Support Specialist 101 for $99 and an in-person training, cost unknown. 

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

Individual

Other potential funding sources.

N/A

Is there a state-wide certification test?

Yes, applications are required to pass the IC&RC Peer Recovery Examination

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

500 hours of volunteer or paid work experience specific to the domains of: Advocacy, Mentoring/Education, Recovery/Wellness Support, Ethical Responsibility. (If individual is completing the University training track they only need to complete 200 hours of field experience)
Must complete 25 hours of supervision specific to the 4 domains. Supervision must be provided by an organization's documented and qualified supervisory staff per job description. The NCB PR Certification Board must approve all supervisors. (*Same amount of supervised hours required of University training track)
Applicant must agree to adhere to the Nevada Certification Board's peer recovery specific code of ethics.

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

NCB does not require criminal background checks, although Medicaid does for reimbursement

What is the cost of the certification test?

Initial Certification is $165 which includes the cost of the exam

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?

No

Is there a statewide certification body?

Yes

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

Nevada Certification Board
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 14220
Reno, NV 89507
Phone: 775-784-6203
Email: [email protected]

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

Foundation for Recovery training seems to be offered a few times per year. CASAT online course offered year-round

Training providers (vendors) and their contact information.

Vendors must complete a training application and submit to NCB. They are provided the curriculum requirements.

What are the continuing education requirements?

20 hours of continuing education must be earned every two years, including 6 hours in ethics

Who tracks CEUs?

Individual

Is there a certification requirement for CPS Supervisors? If yes, provide details of requirements and relevant information.
Additional specializations available for certified peer specialists:

Nevada still has only one designation for PRSS as previously stated. We do now have 2 endorsements: Problem Gambling and Trauma Informed Care. To obtain an endorsement, individuals most already be certified PRSS for 1 year and complete specialized trainings in the topic. There are no acronyms for the endorsements, just a separate certificate.

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

Nevada still has only one designation for PRSS as previously stated. We do now have 2 endorsements: Problem Gambling and Trauma Informed Care. To obtain an endorsement, individuals most already be certified PRSS for 1 year and complete specialized trainings in the topic. There are no acronyms for the endorsements, just a separate certificate.

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?

Medicaid - Chapter 400 (specifically 403.6F)

Is digital peer support available? Medicaid reimbursable?

Yes, NV allows virtual services.

Is there a statewide Peer Specialist organization?

NPLAC no longer exists

Name of Statewide Peer Specialists Organization*
Peer Specialists Organization Website*
Peer Specialists Organization Primary Contact*
Other relevant/helpful contacts:*

Jordan Baez, PRSS Coordinator [email protected]

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

Not specific to Peers, although many conferences provide CEUs for Peers or Peer tracks

Helpful Websites/ References*

N/A

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

N/A

Is the Certification curriculum peer-led and/or peer developed?

Nevada Certification Board is an IC&RC affiliate organization so the certification requirements are dictated by them. As for the training curriculum, there are currently 3 that are approved and all 3 were developed by those with lived experience of addiction/recovery.

Are there any potential Barriers to certification and post certification employment?

NCB does not require criminal background checks, although Medicaid does for reimbursement

Is there a recent count of the # of Peer Specialists in this state? What is the count, and the day this count was captured?

350 (2024)

How does the state/certification body approve Peer support training vendors?

Vendors must complete a training application and submit to NCB. They are provided the curriculum requirements.

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