TRAINING
PEER SUPPORT SPECIALIST CERTIFICATION
Peer Support Specialists bring vital lived experience to behavioral health care.
WestCoast’s Medi-Cal certification training equips individuals with the knowledge and skills
to support others on their healing journey, while meeting California’s statewide standards
PEER SUPPORT
SPECIALIST CERTIFICATION
This certification program is designed to prepare applicants to become a Certified Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist (CMPSS). The program will address the seventeen competencies by providing education about the recovery model and process, trauma informed care, mental health, substance use/abuse, co- occurring diagnosis, relapse and crisis planning, maintaining wellness, goal development, boundaries, client led approaches, advocacy, stigma, and the significance of culture and community.
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The program will be led by WestCoast Children’s Clinic mental health providers who have peer and/or clinical experience. Providers will discuss theories and skills related to mental health and substance use/abuse that will support the work of the prospective CMPSS. Prospective CMPSS will have the opportunity to reflect and practice knowledge through group discussions, role playing, scenarios, and other interactive activities.
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Peer Support Specialists use their lived experience to offer powerful, meaningful support to others navigating mental health and substance use challenges. WestCoast’s certification program prepares individuals to become Certified Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialists (CMPSS), equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to support others in their recovery journey.​
PROGRAM OVERVIEW
WestCoast’s Peer Support Specialist Certification is an 80-hour training approved by the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS). The program covers 17 core competencies required for state certification, including trauma-informed care, substance use and co-occurring disorders, the recovery model, crisis planning, and the importance of culture and community.
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Training is delivered using a hybrid model with both in-person and online components. Upon successful completion, participants will receive a certificate of completion and will be eligible to take the state exam.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE?
To qualify for the certification, applicants must:
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Be at least 18 years of age
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Have a high school diploma or equivalent
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Identify as having lived experience with mental illness or substance use (as a consumer, caregiver, or family member)
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Be willing to share their experience
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Demonstrate a strong commitment to recovery
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Agree to follow the Peer Support Specialist Code of Ethics
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Successfully complete training and pass the DHCS-approved state exam
