Certified Peer Support Worker (CPSW)

Requirements
Applicant must be at least 18 years of age, and have a minimum of three (3) years of demonstrable mental wellness and or substance use recovery. Applicant must be a current or former consumer of mental health and/or substance use support services. Applicant might be asked to provide a letter of reference from sponsor, counselor, religious leader and or therapist, etc.

Education
A high school diploma or equivalent is required and verification must be submitted. 

Requirements
The Office of Peer Recovery & Engagement (OPRE), through the Behavioral Health Services Division (BHSD) of the New Mexico Human Services Department (NMHSD), offers a training program for individuals seeking certification as Peer Support Workers. 

Supervision Requirements
Applicant must have 40 hours of supervised volunteer or paid work with direct client contact in a behavioral health agency. 

To apply to become a CPSW you must successfully complete the Peer Support Worker training offered through the Office of Peer Recovery and Engagement (OPRE) and complete the certification examination provided through the New Mexico Credentialing Board.

The curriculum is structured to train individuals in skills and content universal to peer support services and provide an understanding of how peer support services are structured in New Mexico.

Domains are as followers: 

• Professionalism
• Ethics
• Components of recovery and resiliency
• Mental health and substance use disorders
• Building communication skills
• Stress management
• Supportive housing

Fees
There are no fees.  OPRE provides supplies used in exercises, a training manual, resource lists, and an exam study guide.