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| Is there a state-endorsed certification process?: | In process. |
| Does the state differentiate between Mental Health Peer Support Specialists and Substance Use Peer Support Specialists?: | No |
| What are the educational requirements to apply for a peer specialist training program?: | High School Diploma/GED with allowed exceptions. |
| What are the personal requirements to apply for a peer specialist training program?: | 2 years in recovery (no hospitalizations or use of substances). Personal interview. |
| What are the professional requirements needed to apply for a peer specialist training program?: | Experience providing support preferred but not required. |
| What are the training requirements to become a Certified Peer Specialist?: | 40 hour training, additional suggested activities |
| What is the average cost for CPS training?: | Free |
| Who is responsible for paying for training? (List all): | N/A |
| Is there a state-wide certification test?: | In process of being developed |
| Is a background check required? If so, is a criminal record a disqualification for certification?: | Not for certification. Background check for employment is often required. |
| Where can information be found for upcoming peer support trainings?: | www.gruposvirtuales.com |
| On average, how often are trainings held in your state?: | About 3 times per year |
| Training providers (vendors) and their contact information.: | Juan Velez-Court apoyomutuo@assmca.pr.gov |
| What are the continuing education requirements?: | In process. Informal CE does exist. |
| Who tracks CEUs?: | Employers |
| Is there a certification requirement for CPS Supervisors? If yes, provide details of requirements and relevant information.: | No |
| Are Certified Peer Specialists services Medicaid reimbursable?: | In the process, but not at the current moment. |
| How are peer support services paid for by the state? What specific Medicaid waivers are used, if any?: | Federal/grant funded |
| Is there a statewide Peer Specialist organization?: | Yes |
| Name of Statewide Peer Specialists Organization: | Centro de Apoyo Mutuo (ASSMCA) |
| Peer Specialists Organization Website: | www.gruposvirtuales.com |
| Peer Specialists Organization Primary Contact: | Juan Velez-Court apoyomutuo@assmca.pr.gov |
| Are there conferences held in the state specifically for Peer Supporters?: | Yes - Peer Specialist Summit |
| Are there recognition or award opportunities for peer support specialists or Substance Use Peer Support Specialists?: | Yes, at annual conference and Recovery Month |
| If there are recent changes to the certification process due to COVID-19, are the changes permanent, temporary or other?: | Trainings are online; temporarily |
