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 $1400.00  

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.

Location Information

Goodwill Keystone Area Clubhouse - 1437 Gordon Street - Allentown, PA 18102

Week 1 of this course from 1/8/24 through 1/12/24 will be held live and in person at this location. Week 2, 1/16/24 - 1/22/24 will be conducted live Online via Zoom.

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?

    Funding for this course may be available from your local Office of Vocational rehabilitation, Behavioral Health Administration, or Veteran's Administration. Please email us at [email protected] for other possible funding opportunities.

  • What education do I need to qualify?

    To qualify for Certified Peer Specialist Training, you must: (a) Have a high school diploma or a general equivalency degree. (b) Identify as a Peer or person with lived experience with Mental Health experience. (c) Within the last (3) years, has maintained at least 12 months of successful full or part-time paid or voluntary work experience or obtained at least 24 credit hours of post-secondary education.

  • Where will the classes be held, Parking, etc.

    Week 1 classes will be held at the Goodwill Keystone Area Clubhouse - 1437 Gordon Street - Allentown, PA 18102. The location is handicapped accessible, accessible by public transportation and provides fre parking in their lot. Week 2 classes will be held Online via Zoom.

  • What is the training schedule?

    The classes are held on weekdays, Monday through Friday from 9:00am to 4:00pm beginning Monday, 1/8/24 and ending Monday 1/22/2024. PLEASE NOTE THAT THERE SILL BE NO CLASSES HELD ON MLK DAY 1/15/24.

  • Can I attend Online?

    Yes! the PCB has now authorized Online training for 1/2 of all CPS courses. Please note that this training still requires 1 week of In-Person courses.

Instructors

Learning and Development Specialist

Jokabel Del Villar

Jokabel Del Villar is a Learning and Development Specialist with a strong background in the justice system and social services. Holding a Bachelor's degree in Psychological Science and a Master's in Organizational Leadership, she brings a wealth of knowledge to her roles. Jokabel's expertise lies in creating engaging learning environments using experiential adult learning techniques. With a passion for community empowerment, Jokabel has worked extensively in roles that facilitate connections between youth, families, and vital community resources. She has conducted clinical assessments, provided clinical recommendations, and offered translation services to bridge communication gaps. Her expertise extends to collaborating with schools, where she assesses students' reading levels and contributes to groundbreaking research in early-life literacy skills. Outside of her professional life, Jokabel enjoys spending quality time with her family and cherished dog, Alí. Her genuine enthusiasm for empowering individuals and communities shines through in all her endeavors.