Certified Autism Peer Specialist Certification Training Application February 18,2023 - March 11, 2023
Now offering Certified Autism Peer Specialist Training for individuals that are interested in working with community members living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Convenient evening and Saturday classes. FREE for those who qualify.
MHP is pleased to share that we will be offering Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) Training for individuals that are interested in working with community members living with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This course is offered FREE to qualified participants. In order to be considered for this training you must have a diagnosis of ASD and also have lived experience with a mental health disorder. The CPS Certification Training is a 75-hour training, delivered live (in-person)on Saturdays and Evenings over 3 weeks. 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the PA Certification Board recognize this training?
Yes! We are an authorized vendor for Certified Peer Specialist training.
How to I register for classes?
Click the blue button above that says "Free to apply - Click here". At the end of the application you will be notified if you qualify for an interview. If you qualify, you will be contacted by phone and email to schedule an interview by video.
How much does the course cost?
This course is free to all who qualify after completing the application and interview process.
How many students are in the class?
Class size is limited to 10 students to allow for individualized instruction and accommodations.
Where will the classes be held, Parking, etc.
All classes will be held in our Center City location at 833 Chestnut St, suite 1100, Philadelphia, PA, 19107. The building is a secure building with a staffed security desk. There is ample parking available on the same block and across the street. We are also accessible by SEPTA Bus, Rail, Broad Street Subway and the Market-Frankford Elevated Line
What is the training schedule?
Saturdays from 9am - 4pm. Weeknights are Monday through Thursday 5pm-9pm. Training begins on Saturday, 2/18/2023 and ends on Saturday 3/11/2023.
Can I take this class online or through Zoom?
The PA Certification Board does not allow Certification classes to be held online at this time. All classes must be held in person.
Instructors
Technical Learning and Development Specialist
Lydia Cooper
Lydia Cooper is the Technical Learning and Development Specialist. Lydia brings to the Institute 38 years of experience in the Social Services field and over 20 years of training and adult education experience. She has been a government benefits administrator, in hospital and field services, and has worked in fundraising and marketing. Most recently Lydia served as a lead trainer and content developer working in the child welfare field with a focus on Kinship Foster Care. Lydia is a seasoned trainer on the effects of trauma on children, and how to employ the methods that will assist in their healing. She was also the Principal trainer for Caregivers seeking to foster children with Special Behavioral Health needs. As Chairperson of the Training Workgroup for the Quality Parenting Initiative, Lydia advocated for virtual learning and lead the development of e-learning for resource parents in Philadelphia. Lydia is Certified trainer in Effective Black Parenting, Family Group Decision Making, CSEC and the Red Cross.
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.
A face mask, properly worn, is required while in the building, elevators, and during classroom lectures and activities.
Temperature and Symptoms
Please check your temperature! If your temperature is over 100.4, or if you have any other COVID symptoms, please do not attend the classroom session. You may contact us by phone, email, or by chat on the main website.
Social Distancing
For your safety, we will be adhering to the Philadelphia recommended social distancing standards during the class.