Becoming a Certified Recovery Support Peer Specialist starts with training. Nexus offers the 6-Hour Core Training as well as the 46-Hour Recovery Support Peer Specialist Training.
Click here to learn more about the RSPS Certification. If you are interested or have additional questions, please email Lindsay Malhotra, Director of Outpatient Services, or call 214-321-0156, ext. 2143.
Peer Specialists are people who have been successful in the recovery process who help others experiencing similar situations. Through shared understanding, respect, and mutual empowerment, peer support workers help people become and stay engaged in the recovery process and reduce the likelihood of relapse. Peer support services can effectively extend the reach of treatment beyond the clinical setting into the everyday environment of those seeking a successful, sustained recovery process.
Peer Specialists engage in a wide range of activities. These include:
- Advocating for people in recovery
- Sharing resources and building skills
- Building community and relationships
- Leading recovery groups
- Mentoring and setting goals
To be a Peer Specialist you must:
- Have a minimum of one (1) year recovery
- Be at least 18 years of age
- Have lived experience with a mental health condition, substance use issue, or both
- Have a high school diploma or GED
- Have a state photo ID
- Be willing to appropriately share your recovery story
- Be able to demonstrate current self-directed recovery, and
- Pass criminal history and registry checks
Part 1 – Core Training
Core Training is the first step in becoming a Peer Specialist. Core Training is a 6-hour interactive training using the ZOOM platform. A computer (no phones or tablets), a stable internet connection, microphone, speakers and webcam are required for this online training. Must pass the acknowledgement assessment immediately following the Core Training.
Please check back for the next available training dates. Download the Core Training Application here.
Part 2 – Peer Specialist Training
Peer Specialist training is the final step in becoming a Peer Specialist. The training is a 46-hour interactive training using the Zoom platform. A computer (no phones or tablets), a stable internet connection, microphone, speakers, and webcam are required for online training. Must have taken the Core Training above. Must attend each day in its entirety. Must pass the acknowledgement assessment immediately following the Peer Specialist Training.
Please check back for the next available training dates. Fill out the Peer Training Specialist application here.