Is there a state-endorsed certification process?
Yes
Does the state differentiate between Mental Health Peer Support Specialists and Substance Use Peer Support Specialists?
No, to become a PRSS you may have recovered from a mental illness, substance use disorder or both.
What are the educational requirements to apply for a peer specialist training program?
At least high school diploma or GED.
What are the personal requirements to apply for a peer specialist training program?
Have demonstrated recovery from a mental illness, substance use disorder or both At least 18 years of age Willing to self-disclose about their personal recovery journey Possess good moral character
What are the professional requirements needed to apply for a peer specialist training program?
Complete online application and mail in supporting documents. Applications must be submitted at least 14 days prior to training as being able to attend training is dependent on the Department approving a person's eligibility to attend training. Agree to respect and observe the PRSS Code of Ethics which must be signed and mailed with their Application Inventory Form to ODMHSAS before being assigned to a training.
What are the training requirements to become a Certified Peer Specialist?
Must attend all days and modules of a 5-day training
What is the average cost for CPS training?
Training is free although you must provide you own meals and lodging if necessary for training attendance.
Who is responsible for paying for training? (List all)

Other potential funding sources.

Is there a state-wide certification test?
"Yes, must take a pass exam at end of training. Test and storytelling will take place on the last day of training. Participants must attend all the modules in order to test. The test is pass or retake. If it is determined that you must retake the exam, y
What are the personal/professional requirements for certification, if they differ from attending the training?
Pass an examination and successfully share your recovery story based on standards promulgated by ODMHSAS after completing the training.
Is a background check required? If so, is a criminal record a disqualification for certification?
No background check is required and a criminal record is not a disqualifying factor for certification.
What is the cost of the certification test?
No cost, part of training which is also free of charge
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?
$25 application fee (initial certification) $15 annual renewal fee $25 late fee (added to $15 renewal fee if submitting renewal paperwork after December 31st.)
Is there a statewide certification body?
Yes
Please provide as much information about the certification board/body as possible.
Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services 2000 N. Classen Blvd. Suite E600 Oklahoma City, OK 73106 Local: (405) 248-9200
Where can information be found for upcoming peer support trainings?
Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services website: https://www.ok.gov/odmhsas/Mental_Health/Certified_Peer_Recovery_Suppor…
On average, how often are trainings held in your state?
One per month
Training providers (vendors) and their contact information.
ODMHSAS Training Institute 2000 N. Classen Blvd. Suite 2-600, East Tower, 6th Floor Oklahoma City, OK 73106-9913 (405) 248-9191 North Regional Health & Wellness Center 5635 N. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd Tulsa, OK 74126-6409 (918) 582-9355 Tulsa Technology Riverside Campus 801 E 91st St, Tulsa, OK 74132 (918) 828-5000
What are the continuing education requirements?
Certifications must be renewed annually by completing the on-line renewal process. Each year, Certified PRSS's are expected to complete 12 hours of continuing education units, 3 of which must be in Ethics.
Who tracks CEUs?
Individuals are responsible for tracking their CEUs and enter them into the database between August 1st and December 31st.
Is there a certification requirement for CPS Supervisors? If yes, provide details of requirements and relevant information.
PRSS Supervisors are required to complete PRSS Supervisor Training but no certification is required.
Additional specializations available for certified peer specialists:
Family Support Provider
What are the different acronyms used to distinguish peer supporters and specific peer support specialties?
C-PRSS: Certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist (RSS is the older title/recognition)
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 under OAC 317:30-5-240
Is digital peer support available? Medicaid reimbursable?
Yes and yes.
Is there a statewide Peer Specialist organization?
No
Name of Statewide Peer Specialists Organization*
N/A
Peer Specialists Organization Website*
N/A
Peer Specialists Organization Primary Contact*
N/A
Other relevant/helpful contacts:*
Jae Jackson McConnell [email protected] 405-227-1164 Peer & Wellness Manager Melodie Mills Recovery Support Training Specialist Mobile: 405-615-9637 Email: [email protected] Brendan Ryan Recovery Support Services Training Specialist Phone 405-625-6441
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?

Additional Info*
Jill Amos (Coordinator of Recovery Support Services) [email protected] Brendan Ryan (Facilitator of Peer Program Implementation) [email protected]
If there are recent changes to the certification process due to COVID-19, are the changes permanent, temporary or other?
Training is being conducted via Zoom

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