OhioMHAS formally began certifying Peer Recovery Supporters on July 1, 2016. Peer Recovery Supporters is an all-inclusive term consisting of peer specialists, recovery coaches, and peer supporters. In order to have a formal certification, individuals delivering peer services needed to have one title for consistency. Peer Recovery Supporter was chosen as it represents the three largest sections of the current peer workforce.
Individuals with a direct lived experience of a mental health or substance use disorder who are in recovery are eligible to apply for the OhioMHAS Peer Recovery Supporter Certification. Interested individuals must:
- Have completed an approved 40-hour in-person peer training. Click here for examples.
- or has a total of 3 years (work or volunteer) experience as a peer supporter, recovery coach, peer specialist, or peer navigator.
All individuals are required to complete the approved 16 hours of E-Based Academy courses, pass the Ohio Peer Supporter Exam, and submit a BCI Report.
Looking for additional information?
View Thrive Peer Recovery Service’s guide to becoming a certified Peer Supporter in the state of Ohio.
