What is a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS)?

A Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) is a trained individual with lived experience in recovery from mental health, substance use or co-occurring disorders responsible for providing recovery support and guidance to others on their recovery journey. CPRS are important parts of the recovery process, using their personal experiences to help others navigate recovery by providing non-clinical, person-centered, and strength-based support that helps individuals become and stay engaged in recovery. CPRS act as role models, mentors and advocates to the person in recovery, helping reduce the likelihood of relapse.

Where do CPRS work?

CPRS can work in treatment and/or recovery centers, hospitals and emergency departments, prevention agencies, educational settings, behavioral health organizations, and many other community programs.

CPRS Minimum Requirement

To become a CPRS, you must receive training and apply for certification. In order to become certified as a CPRS, you must also meet the following basic requirements:

• Must have a High School diploma or GED.
• Must have a minimum of two years spent in recovery from lived-experience in substance use and/or mental health disorders (self-attested)

CPRS Certification Requirements

• 46 hours of pre-approved CPRS training
• Minimum of 500 hours of work experience in a pre-approved facility within the past two years
• Completion of a pre-approved 25 hour Supervised Practicum provided by a CPRS, licensed or approved agency.

Application Requirements

After completing the training, individuals can apply for certification through the New Jersey Certification Board.

Where to Get Trainings

• New Jersey Prevention Network-New Jersey Prevention Network
• Mental Health Association of New Jersey -The Mental Health Association of NJ