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

Lead Learning and Development Specialist

James Klasen

Jim is an Advanced Level WRAP Facilitator and Certified Older Adult CPS trainer. He brings over 35 years of experience from the workforce development field. Jim has worked with youth, welfare recipients, persons returning home from prison, and persons impacted by trauma, mental health, and substance related challenges. Jim is a CPS and brings lived experience sharing his recovery journey openly as evidence that recovery and wellness are both possible and probable. His journey has led naturally to his “encore career” as the Institute's representative to Delaware County.

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.

  • 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 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.