Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) Training - Arkansas

Arkansas has a state-endorsed certification process for Peer Support Specialists, governed by the Department of Provider Services and Quality Assurance (DPSQA) at the Department of Human Services (DHS). Requirements: - Education: High school diploma or GED - Age: 18 or older - Personal: 2+ years of lived experience receiving services in the behavioral health system - Must abstain from illegal substances and alcohol for minimum 2 years (MAT allowed with doctor documentation) - Background check required (less than 60 days old); sex crimes and violent crimes are disqualifying Training: - Core training required for employment as a Peer in Arkansas - Monthly in-person trainings available (see arpeers.org) - Certification test included for all levels — Free (grant-funded) - Training provider: MidSOUTH Training Academy, School of Social Work, UALR Phone: (501) 296-1920 | Email: support@midsouth.ualr.edu Also available: Training for Justice-Involved Peers; Family Peer Support and Youth Peer Support coming soon. CEU requirements: 40 hours of continuing education per certification level. Peer Recovery Supervisor certification: additional 750 hours work experience, 250 hours providing supervision, 80 hours CE, 50 hours supervision. Medicaid reimbursable only if QBHP certified and working for a Behavioral Health agency. Virtual services: available in some cases, not Medicaid reimbursable. Statewide organizations: - The Wolfe Street Foundation: (501) 372-5662 - P.E.A.R.L.: (479) 721-6778 - Exodus.Life: (501) 353-0347 - NEA Divine Intervention: (870) 206-4455 15,520 certified Peer Specialists (2024) Source: Copeland Center Peer Specialist Database