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MEDI-CAL PEER SUPPORT SPECIALIST TRAINING

Peer Support Specialists bring vital lived experience to behavioral health care. WestCoast’s Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist training equips individuals with the knowledge and skills to support others on their recovery journey while meeting California’s statewide training standards.

Peer Support Specialists

Peer Support Specialists use their lived experience to offer powerful, meaningful support to others navigating mental health and substance use challenges. WestCoast’s Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist training prepares individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to provide effective peer support and pursue certification as a Certified Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist (CMPSS) in California.

Casual Discussion

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

WestCoast’s Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist training is an 80-hour training approved by the California Mental Health Services Authority (CalMHSA). The program covers 17 core competencies required for Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist training, including trauma-informed care, substance use and co-occurring disorders, the recovery model, crisis planning, and the importance of culture and community.
 

Training is offered through live Zoom sessions, asynchronous coursework, or in-person sessions. Upon successful completion of the training, participants will receive a certificate of completion. Successful completion also fulfills the training requirement toward California's Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist certification process.

A certificate of completion does not constitute certification as a Certified Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist (CMPSS). Individuals must also meet all applicable certification requirements, including successfully passing the state-approved certification 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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