Peer Certification

For details on training, certification, examination, applying and more, visit capeercertification.org.

In 2020, California passed a law (Senate Bill 803) that makes it possible for certified peer support specialists to be eligible for Medi-Cal reimbursement through county mental health plans and substance use disorder plans (behavioral health plans). This important step in the delivery of behavioral health care values the experience that peers — persons with lived experience — can provide and expands counties’ capacity to care for those who need them.

County behavioral health plans selected CalMHSA to implement a single, standardized Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist certification program. This was done in recognition of the need for a uniform process across the state — one that does not require peers to obtain multiple certifications in multiple counties, supports quality and application of standards, creates efficiency for counties, and adds credibility to the peer profession in California. Key program activities include:

• Creating and implementing the certification program, approving training entities, certifying persons, conducting investigations, and collecting data
• Administering and disbursing scholarships
• Monitoring program activities, evaluation, and quality assurance; processing complaints and appeals

For more information visit www.capeercertification.org. Questions or comments can be sent to [email protected].