What is a Recovery Support Peer Specialist ?
In Texas a certified Recovery Support Peer Specialist (RSPS) is a person who uses lived experience in recovery from a substance use disorder*, in addition to skills learned in formal training, to deliver strengths-based, person-centered services to promote a recipient's recovery and resiliency.
All peer specialist services are recovery-oriented, person-centered, relationship-focused, and trauma-informed.
Peer specialist services may include:
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Recovery and wellness support - includes providing information on and support with planning for recovery
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Mentoring - includes serving as a role model and providing assistance in finding needed community resources and services
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Advocacy - includes providing support in stressful or urgent situations and helping to ensure that the recipient's rights are respected
Services may be provided individually or in a group
Peer support is always voluntary!
*Substance use disorder--A recurrent use of alcohol or drugs that causes clinically and functionally significant impairment, such as health problems, disability, and failure to meet major responsibilities at work, school, or home.
Steps to Becoming Certified
Recertification
Find Training Opportunities
Ready to get trained as an MHPS? Looking for CEU opportunities for renewal? Check out our training calendar. Here is a list of upcoming training and CEU opportunities for you to choose from.

MHPS credentials require a supervised internship period. Start here if you need to find a supervisor or learn more about this stage of the process.

Find Employment
MHPS credentials require a supervised internship period. Start here if you need to find a supervisor or learn more about this stage of the process.

Apply for Financial Assistance
PeerForce has limited funds for training, background checks, and state application fees. Learn more about applying here.
