Information for the Community Members

What are Certified Peer Support Specialists

Are you looking for support with your recovery journey? North Carolina Certified Peer Support Specialists (CPSS) are people in recovery from a mental illness and/or substance use disorder who provide support to others who can benefit from their lived experiences. Peer support is a critical part of an evidence-based and recovery-oriented behavioral health system that supports individuals on their path to recovery and helps them to become more engaged in their communities. The role of a CPSS includes: 

  •   Cultivating relationships built on trust, respect, empathy, mutual experience, and choice
  • Offering support through validation, encouragement, empowerment, and highlighting strengths
  • Sharing personal experiences to inspire hope and recovery
  • Recognizing personal beliefs, cultural values, lived experience, and individual needs
  • Providing education about recover, advocating for oneself, and navigating the behavioral health system

Connect with a Peer

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. The Statewide Peer Warmline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It is free and confidential. Just call 1-855-PEERS NC (1-855-733-7762). The Peer Warmline and the 988 Lifeline are available to anyone, anytime.

The CHESS Connections App offers FREE Certified Peer Support Services to all of North Carolina.  To participate, log into the app and create an account to access services. Connect with CPSS from anywhere in the state and get help with your recovery path or ways to maintain your personal wellness. 

Certified Peer Support Specialist Map

Explore North Carolina's Peer Support Specialist Led Program Map to see where trained peers are providing vital mental health and recover support across the state.

Peer Support Resources in Your Community

Peer Support Services for individuals in various stages of personal recovery are located across the state of North Carolina. These services include:

  • Crisis response through mobile outreach programs, 988, and the Peer Warmline

  • Post-crisis services such as referrals for follow-up care

  • Assistance transitioning back into the community, including individuals leaving incarceration

  • Free Walk-in Centers and Peer Living Rooms for a place to chat or just to, get away for the day and receive support

  • Peer Run Respite Homes, provide a safe place for short-term stays when someone needs a nurturing environment

  • Daily services for mental health and substance use to reach your recovery goals 

Become a Certified Peer Support Specialist

Do you have lived experience that could inspire and support someone in their recovery journey? If so, you may be ready to become a Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS) in North Carolina. To become certified, individuals must meet specific eligibility requirements, complete training, and submit an application for certification.

Submit an application

Eligibility Requirements:

  • At least 18 months of lived experience in recovery from a significant mental illness and/or substance use disorder
  • A high school diploma or equivalent
  • Completion of an NCCPSS-approved training course - choose the training path that best fits your goals from the two options listed on the NCCPSS Programs webpage.  
  • 20 hours of additional training, including approved courses in Ethics and Peer Support Boundaries training
  • Two reference letters and a signed Code of Ethics and Conduct Policy

How to Apply

Step 1: Complete the Certification Application Form

Step 2: Submit the required documents:  

  • A copy of your high school diploma or equivalent
  • A signed Code of Ethics Policy
  • Two letters of reference  
  • Certificates of completion for 20 hours of additional training

Step 3: Choose your Certification Pathway  

Pathway 1: NC Standardized Peer Support Certification Curriculum  

  • Foundations of Peer Support - Part I (20 hours): Free, self-paced online training that can be completed using a mobile device. Multiple learning pathways are available.  
  • Foundations of Peer Support - Part II (40 hours): Free, in-person, hands-on training featuring interactive activities and role-play exercises to help apply new skills in the community.  
  • Final Examination: Pass an online proctored exam with a score of 70% or higher. A study guide is provided to help you prepare.

Pathway 2: Alternative 50-Hour In-Person Training

  • Choose one of the 50-hour, in-person training courses listed on the NCCPSS Programs webpage.  
  • Course costs range from $190 to $400, depending on the provider.  

Step 4: Submit Your Certificate of Completion

After completing your chosen pathway, submit your certificate of completion to finalize your certification as a Certified Peer Support Specialist.

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