Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist Certification - California

California Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist Certification Program Certifying Body: California Mental Health Services Authority (CalMHSA) - capeercertification.org Statewide Peer Organization: CAMHPRO - camhpro.org Certification Requirements: - Minimum age: 18 years - High school diploma or equivalent - Self-identified lived experience with mental illness or substance use disorder (as consumer, parent, caregiver, or family member) - Willingness to share personal recovery experience - Strong dedication to recovery - Written agreement to adhere to Code of Ethics - Complete 80 hours of CalMHSA-approved training - Pass the state certification exam Certification Exam: State-approved exam administered by CalMHSA through a 3rd party vendor. Fee: $150 per attempt. Scholarships available through DHCS and HCAI. Integrated Certification: California has one integrated certification covering both mental health and substance use peer support. Specialization areas are available but do not lead to separate certifications. Renewal: Every 2 years. Requires 20 hours of continuing education, including 6 hours of Law and Ethics training. If expired beyond 4 years, must retake the exam. Supervisor Requirements: No certification required for supervisors, but they must complete relevant training. Background Check: Not required. Criminal record is not a disqualification. Medicaid Reimbursement: Yes - peer support is a benefit under Medi-Cal behavioral health specialty programs (county behavioral health plans). Training Providers: List available at capeercertification.org/training-for-medi-cal-peer-support-specialist/ No Background Check Required. Certified Peer Specialists in California (2024): 2,530 Source: Copeland Center Peer Specialist Database