Via Hope operates the only statewide training and certification program for peer specialists in Texas, that is recognized by the Department of State Health Services.
The original curriculum was developed by the Appalachian Consulting Group (ACG), the leading provider of peer specialist training in the United States. The curriculum has since been updated and expanded to reflect current knowledge and understanding of the peer workforce. The training is provided by experienced, part time trainers who are themselves Certified Peer Specialists and who work for Via Hope on a contract basis while continuing to work in the field.
The Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) course is a forty-three-hour training followed by a written certification exam. Participants must successfully complete both to become certified. Once certified, a peer specialist must earn at least 20 CEUs every two years to maintain his or her certification. Via Hope offers several Endorsement training events, which are designed to enhance individuals’ skills and knowledge in specialized areas. The program is administered according to the policies in the Via Hope Certified Peer Specialist Policy and Procedure Manual.
Population of focus: Peer Specialists in Texas
Links to resource:
- Peer Specialist Training and Certification by Via Hope
- Blog article on UTexas.edu
Date: 2017
Organization: Via Hope Texas Mental Health Resource