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.

Training Location

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

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?

    This course if FREE for those who live OR work in Philadelphia, PA.

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

    Classes will be held at our Center City Philadelphia Training Center at 833 Chestnut St, Philadelphia, PA. We are close to all SEPTA Regional Rail, Subway, Subway-Surface and PATCO lines as well as many Bus routes. DBHIDS provides SEPTA passes to all students for classes that they sponsor.

  • What is the training schedule?

    Monday through Friday, 9:00am - 4:00pm.

  • Can I attend Online?

    This class will be completely in-person classroom sessions with a live instructor. The PA Certification Board now allows Hybrid CPS Instruction (one week online and 1 week in -person) which we offer. Please courses.training.mhphope.org for dates and times of Hybrid training.

Instructors

Instructor and Project Manager

Andrea Boffice, B.A., M.A.

Andrea Boffice is a facilitator and content developer with a particular passion for youth and young adult peer support. Prior to joining the Institute in 2019, she worked in youth advocacy in Pennsylvania and Massachusetts and still engages in systems advocacy and community education within Philadelphia. Andrea earned a B.A and M.A at the school of International Development, Community, and Environment within Clark University. Her goal at the Institute is to educate about the unique experiences of youth, foster cross-generational partnerships, expand the availability of peer support services for young adults, and to aid young people in their recovery.

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.

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