Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist Training

The Copeland Center for Wellness and Recovery is an authorized vendor by CalMHSA approved training for the core curriculum for the Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialists certified in California. This course covers the seventeen Core Competencies of the California Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist Certification Training.

The Copeland Center's course utilizes experiential learning methods so you will be learning through practicing, sharing, reflecting. This hands-on approach is the most effective way to bring the philosophy and research of peer support into practical methods that can be used for a successful career. We are not only learning about practices and applications for future roles and relationships as certified peer specialist, we are also building and learning from the very peer relationships present in this course. 

 

Classes are available in different training methods and modalities. The Copeland Center offers an 80-hour course. 

Hybrid: Courses that combine onsite in-person activities with online work or instructions. These courses split time between in-person and virtual environments. Peers attend in-person courses at designated times plus engage in virtual learning activities, which may be either synchronous or asynchronous.
In-person: Courses taught onsite at scheduled course times so that students can interact with their instructor and classmates in person.
Online: Courses that include designated times for interactive experience, virtual break-out rooms, written assignments, and “virtual-live” or pre-recorded presentations by students.

 

Muted Waves

2025 Training Calendar

January 13-17 and January 20-24 in Alameda County

May 12-23 and May 19-23 - Location TBA

July 7-11 and July 14-18 - Location TBA

December 1-5 and December 8-12 - Location TBA

For further information and to receive an application, please email: [email protected]

Tuition

Training tuition is $1650 - all materials and training with experienced instructors is included. 

wellness vs illness

Join us at the next training opportunity!

January 13-17 and January 20-24 in Alameda County

Funding Your Training

  • Check with your local county department of behavioral health for funding availability for Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist Certification Training. 
  • Limited offers of partial grant funding may be available through the Copeland Center
  • More ideas
Tuilips

Who is Eligible? Requirements for training:

Initial Certification is the process by which an applicant can become a Certified Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist if they meet the eligibility criteria and pass the state-approved exam.

To become a Certified Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist, an individual must meet the following qualifications:

  • Be at least 18 years of age.
  • Possess a high school diploma or equivalent degree.
  • Self-identify as having experience with the process of recovery from a mental illness or substance use disorder, either as a consumer of these services or as the parent, caregiver, or family member of a consumer.
  • Be willing to share their experience.
  • Have a strong dedication to recovery.
  • Agree, in writing, to adhere to the Code of Ethics.
  • Successfully complete the 80-hour training requirements for a peer support specialist through a CalMHSA-approved training equity.
  • Pass the certification examination.

Certified Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist must renew certification every two (2) years.

For more information, please visit the CalMHSA Certification Requirements. Please note that applications may be processed in up to 30 days.

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