CERTIFIED PEER SUPPORT SPECIALIST A Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS) is an individual with a lived experience and journey in receiving public mental health services and supports. They have progressed in their own recovery and are willing to self-identify as a peer and work to assist other individuals with substance use and/or a mental health related issue. They provide direct services to support others with health navigation, accessing resources, and supporting a person-centered recovery journey to achieve community inclusion and participation, recovery, and resiliency.
What does a CPSS do? Peers can relate to others in a non-clinical, more personal way and demonstrate by their own life that recovery is possible. They help individuals served: Express and achieve goals for recovery Monitor progress Learn effective coping and self-help strategies Find effective services and supports Get the most from a Person-Centered Planning process Develop wellness plans Get support during a crisis Participate in the community Become more independent and productive
Peer Support Specialists at Easterseals MORC offer a wide range of services including: One on one help with socialization, housing, and education Wellness Recovery Action Plan Whole Health Action Management Substance Use Trauma Young Adult Art Expression Workshop Recovery Groups Assertive Community Treatment Case Management A Recovery Resource room Supported Employment
What is the certification process? Demonstrate a marked period of stability and work at least 10 hours per week for 6 months as an uncertified peer specialist prior to training. 8 days of training (5 training days, 2 days of applied group, and 1 day of follow up). 24 competencies are covered during training. Certification is granted after passing a State of Michigan DCH test. Agency in-service trainings including Frist Aid/CPR and other relevant topics.
For more information call:
1.800.75.SEALS
www.EastersealsMORC.org