Pennsylvania has two primary certifications: CPS (Certified Peer Specialist, for MH) and CRS (Certified Recovery Specialist, for SUD). Additional: CFRS (Family), COAPS (Older Adult). Requirements: 18+ years old, HS diploma/GED, lived experience, reside or work in PA, 12 months work or 24 college cr…
Pennsylvania has two primary certifications: CPS (Certified Peer Specialist, for MH) and CRS (Certified Recovery Specialist, for SUD). Additional: CFRS (Family), COAPS (Older Adult). Requirements: 18+ years old, HS diploma/GED, lived experience, reside or work in PA, 12 months work or 24 college credit hours in past 3 years. Training: 75 hours approved training. State exam: 50 multiple choice questions (90 min, in-person only). Recertification: every 2 years with 36 CEUs (24 hrs peer support, 3 ethics). Funding: OVR, county MH, BH managed care, PMHCA Glenn Koons Scholarship. Medicaid: Yes (1915c HCBS waiver). Org: PA Peer Support Coalition (papeersupportcoalition.org). Contact: info@pacertboard.org, 717-540-4455. 2,231 certified peer specialists in PA (2024).