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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

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.

Casual Discussion

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.

LEARNING APPROACH

Training is led by experienced mental health providers—many of whom have personal or clinical experience with recovery. Participants will engage in group discussions, role-plays, and hands-on activities to build skills in peer support, communication, and navigating professional relationships in behavioral health settings.

ELIGIBILITY

To qualify for the certification, applicants must:

  1. Be at least 18 years of age

  2. Have a high school diploma or equivalent

  3. Identify as having lived experience with mental illness or substance use (as a consumer, caregiver, or family member)

  4. Be willing to share their experience

  5. Demonstrate a strong commitment to recovery

  6. Agree to follow the Peer Support Specialist Code of Ethics

  7. Successfully complete training and pass the DHCS-approved state exam

NEXT STEPS

If you’re interested in applying to an upcoming cohort or would like to attend an information session, click below to fill out our interest form.

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