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.

Instructor

Bilingual Learning and Development Specialist

Mon Ocampo

Mon Ocampo (They/Them/Theirs/Elle) is a Bilingual Learning and Development Specialist for the Institute@MHP. They were born in Honduras and migrated to the US at a young age. Based on their lived experiences, Mon has dedicated themselves to serving and advocating the mental health needs of the Latine community and for the improvement of service-providing systems. Prior to joining the Institute, Mon worked as a peer mentor serving the acclimation period of the young migrant Latine community by providing resources and making connections within the community. They have also been part of one of Stoneleigh Foundation's research projects that highlights and strategizes youth-voiced opinions on the systematic gaps and their experiences with community-based resources. Combining their past experiences, Mon hopes to bring awareness to the systemic gaps that exist in mental health systems and educate different communities by uplifting the voices of those working within the recovery community.

Training Location

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

FAQ

  • Does the PA Certification Board recognize this training?

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

  • 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

  • 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. Click application link for more information.

  • What is the training schedule?

    Saturdays from 9am - 5pm. Weeknights are Monday through Thursday 5pm-9pm. Training begins on Saturday, 4/26/2025 and ends on Saturday 5/17/2025.

  • Can I attend Online?

    This training will be facilitated in-person. If you are interested in online options please look for CPS Trainings labeled as Hybrid.

  • What requirements must I have?

    Identify as a Peer or Person with lived experience with Mental Health experience.