Course Description

The CPS Certification Training is a 75-hour training, delivered live (in-person) over 10 training days.  The training provides foundational knowledge, skills and values that equip individuals to work as Peer Supporters in the state of Pennsylvania.  

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 and Facilities

We are privileged to hold our classes at the spectacular Berks County Community Foundation. This environmentally green building is located at 237 Court St, Reading, PA 19601. Their mission is to promote philanthropy and improve the quality of life for the residents of Berks County, Pennsylvania. In addition to hosting events and community meetings they also provide a wide variety of grants, scholarships, and educational programs. To learn more, click here:  https://bccf.org/

Conveniently located in the heart of Reading close to restaurants and stores, there is also affordable parking adjacent to their building. For information on parking, click here:  https://bccf.org/parking/ 

Instructor

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.

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 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. Employers seeking to hire CPS personnel may also pay the expense of your training.

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

    We are privileged to hold our classes at the spectacular Berks County Community Foundation. This environmentally green building is located at 237 Court St, Reading, PA 19601. Conveniently located in the heart of Reading close to restaurants and stores, there is also affordable parking adjacent to their building. For information on parking, click here: https://bccf.org/parking/

  • What is the training schedule?

    Monday through Friday, 9:00am - 5:00pm With the exception of Thursday, 9/21 -there will be no class that day. The final day will be Monday, 9/25/2023

  • Can I attend Online?

    No. The PA Certification Board requires that CPS Certification Classes be held in the classroom with live instructors.

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