Peer Support Specialist Training
Become a Peer Support Specialist
If you have ever overcome an addiction or mental health challenge yourself or been close by as a friend or family member recovered, you know the importance of a good support system. In this 100% online course you will learn the formal concepts and procedures to become a Peer Support Specialist. By completing this course, you will receive the content and standards that are promoted by INAOPS, the International Association of Peer Supporters.
Job Outlook for Peer Support Specialist
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) counts Peer Support Specialists as Health Educators and Community Health Workers, a group it expects to grow by 13% between now and 2029. This is much faster than anticipated growth for all job categories. The BLS notes that growth in these areas will be driven by the need to provide education and support in order to reduce healthcare costs and ensure that clients receive access to the healthcare services they need.
According to PayScale.com, Peer Support Specialists earn $32,400 per year, on average. Top Peer Support Specialists earn over $50,000 per year. Over 4 out of 5 Peer Support Specialists report that they are “highly satisfied” with their jobs.
Peer Support Specialist FAQs
WHAT DO PEER SUPPORT SPECIALISTS DO?
Peer Support Specialists work alongside psychologists and social workers to form mental health and counseling teams. They may counsel or assist others with addictions or mental health conditions. Since they are personally familiar with the disorders, they often act as peer role models for their clients.
WHERE DO PEER SUPPORT SPECIALISTS WORK?
Peer Support Specialists often meet with clients in their own homes or in private offices. They may also provide support in primary care offices, emergency rooms, inpatient facilities, and recovery centers. Many communicate with clients over the phone or provide virtual support online.
ARE PEER SUPPORT SPECIALISTS LICENSED?
There is no formal requirement for Peer Support Specialists. However, some states, municipalities and healthcare providers require certification. INAOPS certification may be accepted by State Certification Boards that require or provide credentials for Recovery Peer Specialists or Peer Supporters. Please check with your State Certification Boards for more information on Certification.
Course Objectives
The central knowledge base and behaviors of effective Peer Support promoted by iNAOPS
The attributes, roles, duties and guidelines for a Peer Specialist
Recognize aspects of recovery unique to the individual, as well as developing their own recovery definition
The creating and exploring of community resources, courtroom etiquette, help peers identify and understand communication barriers, and the reasoning behind documenting practices
How transformational language helps a peer specialist in the transformation in services for people with mental health problems
Various communication techniques commonly used in a peer support setting
The history of mental illness with attention to how and why the recovery model has emerged
Tools that will help you develop appropriate and effective ways of approaching peers and/or veterans with a substance disorder and/or co-occurring disorder
Cultural differences you are likely to encounter as a peer specialist
The critical nature of how ethics and boundaries play an integral role in the daily job of a peer specialist
The basics necessary to assist with peer reintegration into the community
A comprehensive concept of wellness that goes beyond being free of disease or sickness
Prerequisites and Requirements
Basic computer skills are required.
Student Testimonial
Through the Landscape & Garden Design Certificate, I was able to cultivate the skills and best techniques necessary to properly design and install my own landscape and hardscape concepts. Moreover, I acquired a much more expansive knowledge of local resources, including the instructor’s extensive proprietary plant selection list for our East Tennessee growing zones, which truly made my dream garden outstanding.
Mary Woody, Former Landscape and Design Certificate Student
Register Today
This course is 100% online. Start anytime.
