New Hampshire

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"(CRSW). The Mental health certification is overseen by the Bureau of Mental Health Services (BMHS) and through the Community College of NH individuals can complete a 46 hour training curriculum meeting all state requirements for a Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS). No other peer certifications in NH at this time.

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

None for CPSS.
CRSW: eligibility Requirements for all applicants for licensure or certification as defined in Alc 302.01
b. Have the ability to read and write in the English language
Eligibility Requirements for Certification as a CRSW as defined in Alc 303.01
a. Holds a Minimum of high school diploma or its equivalent
b. Has completed 500 hours of paid or volunteer work within 10 years of the date of the application as described in Alc 303.02.
c. Has completed at least 46 hours of education as described in Alc 303.03.
d. Has complied with the application procedures as described in Alc 304.
e. Has passed the exam as defined in Alc 305.01
f. Has been found competent in peer recovery support work as described in Alc 313.07 (e) and (f).
g. Is of good moral character, as described in Alc 303.01(a) 7 (a-f).

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

None for CPSS CRSW as follows:
Eligibility Requirements for all applicants for licensure or certification as defined in Alc 302.01
a. At least 18 years of age
b. Have the ability to read and write in the English language
c. Have committed none of the acts outlined in Alc 302.01(a)(3) (a-h).
d. Have no mental disability that currently affects the applicant’s professional judgment or ability to offer the services described in RSA 330-C.
e. An applicant shall not be disqualified for certification or licensure for an act described in Alc 302.01(a)(3) if the board finds that the applicant has made sufficient restitution or has been rehabilitated in
accordance with the criteria outlined in Alc 302.01(b)1-6
f. An applicant shall not be disqualified for certification or licensure based upon a mental disability if the Board finds the criteria has been met as outlined in Alc 302.01(c)1-3
Eligibility Requirements for Certification as a CRSW as defined in Alc 303.01
a. Holds a Minimum of high school diploma or its equivalent

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

None for CPSS CRSW as follows:
Eligibility Requirements for all applicants for licensure or certification as defined in Alc 302.01
a. At least 18 years of age
b. Have the ability to read and write in the English language
c. Have committed none of the acts outlined in Alc 302.01(a)(3) (a-h).
d. Have no mental disability that currently affects the applicant’s professional judgment or ability to offer the services described in RSA 330-C.
e. An applicant shall not be disqualified for certification or licensure for an act described in Alc 302.01(a)(3) if the board finds that the applicant has made sufficient restitution or has been rehabilitated in
accordance with the criteria outlined in Alc 302.01(b)1-6
f. An applicant shall not be disqualified for certification or licensure based upon a mental disability if the Board finds the criteria has been met as outlined in Alc 302.01(c)1-3
Eligibility Requirements for Certification as a CRSW as defined in Alc 303.01
a. Holds a Minimum of high school diploma or its equivalent

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

An individual must register, attend and complete the 46 hour course inclusive of passing the exam and received a certification of completion to receive a CPSS certificate from the state.

What is the average cost for CPS training?

The course cost $729 per student, each cohort has up to 24 seats. Currently the department is in process of contracting, to fund the training through NH DHHS.

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

The course cost $729 per student, each cohort has up to 24 seats. Currently the department is in process of contracting, to fund the training through NH DHHS.

Other potential funding sources.

The course cost $729 per student, each cohort has up to 24 seats. Currently the department is in process of contracting, to fund the training through NH DHHS.

Is there a state-wide certification test?

The CCSNH administers the peer certification exam as a part of the training curriculum and issues a certificate of completion, pass/fail once the course is completed. The course cost $729 per student, each cohort has up to 24 seats. Currently the department is in process of contracting, to fund the training through NH DHHS.
For CRSW in NH: Has passed the exam as defined in Alc 305.01

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

For a CPSS-The individual must attend 6 co-learning virtual meetings, offered weekly, with other students in the course. This must be done while registered in the course, to complete the training course and receive certification. CRSW as follows:
Eligibility Requirements for all applicants for licensure or certification as defined in Alc 302.01
a. At least 18 years of age
b. Have the ability to read and write in the English language
c. Have committed none of the acts outlined in Alc 302.01(a)(3) (a-h).
d. Have no mental disability that currently affects the applicant’s professional judgment or ability to offer the services described in RSA 330-C.
e. An applicant shall not be disqualified for certification or licensure for an act described in Alc 302.01(a)(3) if the board finds that the applicant has made sufficient restitution or has been rehabilitated in
accordance with the criteria outlined in Alc 302.01(b)1-6
f. An applicant shall not be disqualified for certification or licensure based upon a mental disability if the Board finds the criteria has been met as outlined in Alc 302.01(c)1-3
Eligibility Requirements for Certification as a CRSW as defined in Alc 303.01

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

CRSW require a background check as a part of the application process: https://www.oplc.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt441/files/inline-documents/…
No background required for training CPSS. In NH employers are responsible for conducting a background check and submitting waivers in accordance with any contractual or state rule background check language such as:
1.8.34. Prior to making an offer of employment or for volunteer work, the Contractor shall, after obtaining signed and notarized authorization from the individual for whom information is being sought, submit the individual’s name for review against the Department’s Bureau of Elderly and Adult Services (BEAS) state registry maintained pursuant to RSA 161-F:49.
1.8.35. Unless the Contractor requests and obtains a waiver from the Department, the Contractor shall not hire any individual or approve any individual to act as a volunteer if:
1.8.35.1. The individual’s name is on the BEAS State Registry;
1.8.35.2. The individual has a criminal record of a felony conviction; or
1.8.35.3. The individual has a record of any misdemeanor conviction involving: 1.8.35.3.1. Physical or sexual assault;
1.8.35.3.2. Violence;
1.8.35.3.3. Exploitation;
1.8.35.3.4. Child pornography;
1.8.35.3.5. Threatening or reckless conduct;
1.8.35.3.6. Theft;
1.8.35.3.7. Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol; or

What is the cost of the certification test?

The CCSNH administers the peer certification exam as a part of the training curriculum and issues a certificate of completion, pass/fail once the course is completed. The course cost $729 per student, each cohort has up to 24 seats. Currently the department is in process of contracting, to fund the training through NH DHHS.
For CRSW in NH: Has passed the exam as defined in Alc 305.01

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?

May need to may for computer or Internet if they do not already have them

Is there a statewide certification body?

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"(CRSW). The Mental health certification is overseen by the Bureau of Mental Health Services (BMHS) and through the Community College of NH individuals can complete a 46 hour training curriculum meeting all state requirements for a Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS). No other peer certifications in NH at this time.

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

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"(CRSW). The Mental health certification is overseen by the Bureau of Mental Health Services (BMHS) and through the Community College of NH individuals can complete a 46 hour training curriculum meeting all state requirements for a Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS). No other peer certifications in NH at this time.

Where can information be found for upcoming peer support trainings?

For CPSS certification Contact [email protected]
For CRSW https://www.oplc.nh.gov/applications-alcohol-and-other-drug-use-profess… There are several of each training offered annually. The CPSS in online only at this time. The CRSW training is offered in-person and online.

On average, how often are trainings held in your state?

For CPSS certification Contact [email protected]
For CRSW https://www.oplc.nh.gov/applications-alcohol-and-other-drug-use-profess… There are several of each training offered annually. The CPSS in online only at this time. The CRSW training is offered in-person and online.

Training providers (vendors) and their contact information.

The NH OCFA in DHHS-BMHS oversees the certification the office can be contacted at [email protected] Training is planned to be offered through a vendor the CCSNH.

What are the continuing education requirements?

There are no additional CE requirements for the CPSS.
CRSW must complete 12 CE hours every 2 years. The Required Hours may be a combination of pertinent courses, workshops, in-service trainings, and/or seminars. The hours must be pre-approved by the NH Board of Licensing for Alcohol & Other Drug Use Professionals or a reciprocal International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium (ICRC) member board state. Clinical supervision and staff meetings will not be accepted as continuing education. Individuals must submit proof of this to the OPLC.

Who tracks CEUs?

There are no additional CE requirements for the CPSS.
CRSW must complete 12 CE hours every 2 years. The Required Hours may be a combination of pertinent courses, workshops, in-service trainings, and/or seminars. The hours must be pre-approved by the NH Board of Licensing for Alcohol & Other Drug Use Professionals or a reciprocal International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium (ICRC) member board state. Clinical supervision and staff meetings will not be accepted as continuing education. Individuals must submit proof of this to the OPLC.

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

There are no Peer support Supervisor Trainings pathways in NH at this time.

Additional specializations available for certified peer 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"(CRSW). The Mental health certification is overseen by the Bureau of Mental Health Services (BMHS) and through the Community College of NH individuals can complete a 46 hour training curriculum meeting all state requirements for a Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS). No other peer certifications in NH at this time.

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

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"(CRSW). The Mental health certification is overseen by the Bureau of Mental Health Services (BMHS) and through the Community College of NH individuals can complete a 46 hour training curriculum meeting all state requirements for a Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS). No other peer certifications in NH at this time.

Are Certified Peer Specialists services Medicaid reimbursable?

In addition to the above; Some peer support is reimbursable under Substance Use codes, however many services are not.

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

In addition to the above; Some peer support is reimbursable under Substance Use codes, however many services are not.

Is digital peer support available? Medicaid reimbursable?

Unknown for substance use services

Is there a statewide Peer Specialist organization?

UPDATE- New Hampshire has 14 Mental Health Peer Support Agencies (PSA) and 16 Recovery Community Organizations (RCO). RCO info https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt476/files/documents2/rco-re…
PSA info https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt476/files/documents2/nh-pee…

Name of Statewide Peer Specialists Organization*

UPDATE- New Hampshire has 14 Mental Health Peer Support Agencies (PSA) and 16 Recovery Community Organizations (RCO). RCO info https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt476/files/documents2/rco-re…
PSA info https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt476/files/documents2/nh-pee…

Peer Specialists Organization Website*

UPDATE- New Hampshire has 14 Mental Health Peer Support Agencies (PSA) and 16 Recovery Community Organizations (RCO). RCO info https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt476/files/documents2/rco-re…
PSA info https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt476/files/documents2/nh-pee…

Peer Specialists Organization Primary Contact*

UPDATE- New Hampshire has 14 Mental Health Peer Support Agencies (PSA) and 16 Recovery Community Organizations (RCO). RCO info https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt476/files/documents2/rco-re…
PSA info https://www.dhhs.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt476/files/documents2/nh-pee…

Other relevant/helpful contacts:*

Sara Powell Bureau of Drug and Alcohol Services, she oversees state funded RCO's, [email protected]
Ayla Kendall Bureau of Mental Health Services, she oversees state funded PSA's, [email protected]

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

Not currently; PSA's have not held one since before COVID

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

Individual agencies and employers may

Helpful Websites/ References*

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

Additional Info*

N/A

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

In Fall of 2023 into 2024 a new NH Peer Workforce training curriculum was developed. This is slated to launch 1/8/24. NH DHHS and Dartmouth Health comprised a peer advisory council to develop each module of the curriculum; 90% or more council members were peers. All the video and testimonial footage is of peers in our NH community. The NH Department of Heath and Human Services, Dartmouth Health and affiliates, and the Community College System of New Hampshire (CCSNH) contributed to the development of this curriculum as well.

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

CRSW require a background check as a part of the application process: https://www.oplc.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt441/files/inline-documents/…
No background required for training CPSS. In NH employers are responsible for conducting a background check and submitting waivers in accordance with any contractual or state rule background check language such as:
1.8.34. Prior to making an offer of employment or for volunteer work, the Contractor shall, after obtaining signed and notarized authorization from the individual for whom information is being sought, submit the individual’s name for review against the Department’s Bureau of Elderly and Adult Services (BEAS) state registry maintained pursuant to RSA 161-F:49.
1.8.35. Unless the Contractor requests and obtains a waiver from the Department, the Contractor shall not hire any individual or approve any individual to act as a volunteer if:
1.8.35.1. The individual’s name is on the BEAS State Registry;
1.8.35.2. The individual has a criminal record of a felony conviction; or
1.8.35.3. The individual has a record of any misdemeanor conviction involving: 1.8.35.3.1. Physical or sexual assault;
1.8.35.3.2. Violence;
1.8.35.3.3. Exploitation;
1.8.35.3.4. Child pornography;
1.8.35.3.5. Threatening or reckless conduct;
1.8.35.3.6. Theft;
1.8.35.3.7. Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol; or & Not for the CPSS.
CRSW as follows:
Eligibility Requirements for all applicants for licensure or certification as defined in Alc 302.01
a. At least 18 years of age
b. Have the ability to read and write in the English language
c. Have committed none of the acts outlined in Alc 302.01(a)(3) (a-h).
d. Have no mental disability that currently affects the applicant’s professional judgment or ability to offer the services described in RSA 330-C.
e. An applicant shall not be disqualified for certification or licensure for an act described in Alc 302.01(a)(3) if the board finds that the applicant has made sufficient restitution or has been rehabilitated in
accordance with the criteria outlined in Alc 302.01(b)1-6
f. An applicant shall not be disqualified for certification or licensure based upon a mental disability if the Board finds the criteria has been met as outlined in Alc 302.01(c)1-3
Eligibility Requirements for Certification as a CRSW as defined in Alc 303.01

Are certification trainings offered in-person, online, or hybrid?

For CPSS certification Contact [email protected]
For CRSW https://www.oplc.nh.gov/applications-alcohol-and-other-drug-use-profess… There are several of each training offered annually. The CPSS in online only at this time. The CRSW training is offered in-person and online.

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

150 (2024)

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

The NH OCFA in DHHS-BMHS oversees the certification the office can be contacted at [email protected] Training is planned to be offered through a vendor the CCSNH.

Currently Known Issues (date found)

New Hampshire needs to establish peer support as a Medicaid billable code, & Yes, NH is exploring peer support payment methods, rule changes, and peers in the CCBHC model. (2024)

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