Certified Peer Support Specialist

Who Should Attend:

People in recovery who are interested in becoming a Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS) must apply for initial screening.

Requirements:

High school diploma or GED, strong reading and writing skills, one year of continuous recovery from addiction, willingness to self-identify as a person in recovery, demonstrated participation in advocacy, interest in helping others, and adherence to the Recovery Training Academy Code of Ethics.

Objectives:

1. Learn the roles and functions of a Certified Peer Support Specialist / Recovery Coach
2. Build skills to enhance relationships
3. Discuss co-occurring disorders and medication-assisted recovery
4. Describe stages of change and their applications
5. Address ethical issues and experience wellness planning
6. Practice skills and documentation training ​

Trainers:

• Ed Johnson, LPC, LAC/S, MAC, CPRS
• Sarah Gainey MSW, LISW-CP

​Cost:

$300 / Scholarships may be available

1. My foremost responsibility is my recovery. If alcohol, drug use, or any other issue jeopardizes my recovery, I will promptly contact my supervisor.
2. Recovery is guided by self-determination. I support others in achieving their needs and goals, advocating for their decisions regarding professional and other services.
3. I will uphold the Faces and Voices of Recovery Bill of Rights for each person I serve.
4. I advocate for the integration of peers into self-selected recovery communities and will promote the individual’s inherent value to those communities.
5. I will act in accordance with the law.
6. I affirm the dignity of each person I serve.
7. I provide recovery services to individuals regardless of their age, gender, race, ethnicity, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, marital status, political beliefs, language, socioeconomic status, or mental or physical condition. If differences arise that impact motivation for recovery, I seek consultation and, if necessary, refer to another recovery support service.
8. I never use physical force, verbal abuse, or emotional abuse; intimidate; threaten; harass; or make unwarranted promises of benefits.
9. I share my lived experience to help others identify resources and support that promote recovery.
10. I respect the privacy of those I serve and will abide by confidentiality guidelines as required by law.
11. I never engage in sexual or intimate relations with peers I serve.
12. I do not accept gifts of significant value from peers I serve.
13. I do not lend or borrow from peers I serve.
14. I improve my recovery service knowledge and skills through ongoing education, training, and supervision as determined by my employer.