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, 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.

Training Location

Mental Health Partnerships, 833 Chestnut Street, 11th floor Philadelphia, PA 19107

Instructors

Instructor and Project Manager

Andrea Boffice, B.A., M.A.

Andrea Boffice is a facilitator and content developer with a particular passion for youth and young adult peer support. Prior to joining the Institute in 2019, she worked in youth advocacy in Pennsylvania and Massachusetts and still engages in systems advocacy and community education within Philadelphia. Andrea earned a B.A and M.A at the school of International Development, Community, and Environment within Clark University. Her goal at the Institute is to educate about the unique experiences of youth, foster cross-generational partnerships, expand the availability of peer support services for young adults, and to aid young people in their recovery.

Program Supervisor, MEd, CPS

Patrick Montgomery

Patrick Montgomery (he/him) is a Program Supervisor for the Institute at Mental Health Partnerships. Patrick is a graduate of Franklin and Marshall College where he received a B.A. in Scientific and Philosophical Studies of the Mind, concentrating in Moral Psychology. He has a combined 8 years of experience working in the Social Work and Education fields in Philadelphia and Lancaster County. Patrick received his Masters degree in Teaching from Relay Graduate School in 2021, and was previously a middle school teacher at the School District of Philadelphia before joining MHP. With a background in education and experience working with neurodivergent individuals, he aims to create and facilitate impactful learning experiences for peer specialists.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Does the PA Certification Board recognize this training?

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

  • 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.

  • 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 ending 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.