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?

    There is no scholarship available for this training. If you are seeking employeement 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 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.

Instructors

Learning and Development Specialist

Edward Drago

Edward Drago (He/Him/His) is a Learning & Development Specialist at the Institute@MHP with over 25 years of experience in Human and Professional Services driven by a passion for using storytelling and peer support to cultivate relationships and mutual healing. He holds an A.S. degree and is currently pursuing a combined B.S./M.Div. program to further his education. Edward has extensive professional experience in the industries of Workforce Development, Community & Social Services and Professional Business Services in the for-profit and non-profit sectors. Edward has worked with a wide range of individuals including youth & young adults, veterans, unemployment and TANF recipients, justice-involved individuals, and individuals living with trauma and mental health challenges. Edward is a facilitator of MBSR (mindfulness-based stress reduction) and MBCT (mindfulness-based cognitive therapy) and is open about his own mental health journey, combining recovery and traditional medical approaches. As a servant-leader, Edward strives to educate, inspire and build hope for those all – especially those living with mental health challenges, by leveraging his diverse professional experience and lived-experience with mental health.