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FPSS CERTIFICATIONS

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PRE-CERTIFICATION

     One of UPN's goals is to develop a robust and thorough pre-certification process for aspiring peer specialists. In this process, we will orient peer applicants to Recovery Oriented Systems of Care, what to expect during training, how to get the most out of training, and how to utilize training to enter the workforce and join the Utah Peer Network.

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UPN is creating a process of pre-screening, where we can have a panel of certified peer specialists to help answer your questions. This would set the tone for training and ensure that you have all the info you need to be successful and provide meaningful context to this new peer journey. A pre-certification workshop would also educate prospective peer specialists about ongoing employment support and professional development possibilities. Ask us about a pre-certification info presentation!

HOW TO APPLY

     To become a Family Peer Support Specialist, you will need to apply to the State's Office of Substance Use and Mental Health. The following items are the listed requirements for application: 

  • Be an individual with lived family caregiver experience, defined as:

    • "A person who has the experience of being actively involved in raising or caring for a child or family member who experiences emotional, behavioral, mental health and/or substance use challenges."

  • Answering the following questions in a few paragraphs:

    • Please describe in detail your experience caring for a child/youth/family member with emotional, behavioral, or mental health challenges in your personal life.​

    • Please describe any experience you have, including formal or professional experience, providing support services to others.​

    • Please explain any concerns you have with sharing your personal story in a professional setting.

    • Please explain why you want to become a Family Peer Support Specialist.

  • Complete the online application on the OSUMH Website Here.

  • UPN will also support you during the certification process if you have questions or concerns and after certification through ongoing training and continuing education unit (CEU) opportunities. Find more information about this below.  

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CERTIFICATION

Core Training

FPSS training is 40 hours over five days and is offered online. If you are employed already, talk to your employer about doing this training during your working hours. 

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Dual Certification Training

 If you already have your Certified Peer Support Specialist Certification in Utah, you may be eligible to do an abbreviated Dual Certification training. This training covers topics specifically related to Family Peer Support, and doesn't cover topics learned already in CPSS training.

Requirements: 

  • Be in good standing and have written permission from your supervisor

  • 1+ year's experience as a CPSS

  • Have FPSS lived experience

  • Complete the Dual Certification application, not the New FPSS application

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 For both trainings, at the end, you will take an exam that if passed successfully, will result in your certification as a Family Peer Support Specialist valid throughout Utah.

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