Course Description

The CPS Certification Training is a 75-hour hybrid training fully authorized by the PA Certification Board (PCB). The class is delivered live (in-person) during the first week, and Online via Zoom the second week.  

The training provides foundational knowledge, skills and values that equip individuals to work as Peer Supporters in the state of Pennsylvania.  This training costs $1400, Funding available for new employees of Peerstar, inc.

The CPS Certification Training includes the following topics:

  • The history of Recovery and Peer Support
  • Recovery Values
  • WRAP Seminar I
  • CPS Core Competencies
  • Outreach and Engagement
  • Stages of Change
  • Introduction to Motivational Interviewing
  • Ethics and Boundaries
  • Documentation
  • Mental Models / Ladder of Inference
  • Diversity and Worldview
  • Support for Transitions
  • Credentialing and Job Search

Successful completion of this training requires consistent attendance, full participation in activities and assignments, as well as satisfactory scores on two weekly tests.  Successful completion of this course renders the learner eligible to sit for the PA Certification Board exam, which is required for full certification.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Does the PA Certification Board recognize this training?

    Yes! We are an authorized vendor for Certified Peer Specialist training.

  • Are there Scholarships available?

    Yes! Funding to take this course may be available from your local PA Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, your county office of Behavioral Health, or the Veteran's Administration. If you are seeking employment Peerstar will fund training for new employees to be certified.

  • What education do I need to qualify?

    To qualify for Certified Peer Specialist Training, you must Identify as a Peer or person with lived experience with Mental Health experience. No further requirements are needed.

  • What is the training schedule?

    The classes are held on weekdays, Monday through Friday from 9:00am to 4:00pm. In Person classes begin Monday and ends Friday. Online classes begin the following Monday through Friday.

  • Can I attend Online?

    Yes! The 2nd week of training is live online via Zoom. You can attend anywhere that you have internet access.

Instructors

Facilitator

John Elburn

John Elburn is a Learning and Development Specialist at the Institute at MHP. He began his career in 2017 after becoming a Certified Peer Specialist. Prior to his current role, he worked at Unity Recovery, where he led programs, supervised interns, and provided one-on-one supervision to peers. With personal experience in mental health and substance use disorders, including a period of being unhoused in Philadelphia, John is dedicated to the field of peer support and its power to transform lives. He holds an AAS in Behavioral Health and Human Services and is a certified servant leader. He plans to pursue a Master of Social Work (MSW) in the future.