Peer support specialists are the fastest growing segment of the mental health workforce, and 49 out of 50 states have currently implemented state-endorsed or state-run peer certification programs. Developing uniform standards across states and provider organizations is important for promoting quality and consistency and facilitating more widespread adoption of peer services. In response to this need, SAMHSA in 2023 introduced national model standards for mental health, substance use, and family peer certification. The report builds on SAMHSA’s 2015 report identifying core competencies for peer workers in behavioral health. SAMHSA’s national model standards for peer support certification identify core standards for qualifications, training, and supervision for peer specialists. For instance, the standards recommend that peer specialists should have 40-60 hours of training; up to 120 hours of supervised work experience; and supervision by certified peer supervisors who have direct experience as a peer worker. These standards can be used by state mental health authorities in developing their peer certification programs, and to promote reciprocity of certification across states. Along with SAMHSA’s 2015 core competencies report, these standards can help support provider organizations in more effectively integrating and supporting peer specialists in their work.
REFERENCES