What is a Peer Support Specialist?

A PSS is a certified behavioral health professional who has lived experience. Meaning, they have either received treatment for mental health difficulties and/or substance use, or they have supported a young person who received treatment for mental health difficulties and/or substance use.

What does a Peer Support Specialist do?

They support clients with similar conditions. As a part of the care team for clients who are receiving treatment for mental health difficulties and/or substance use, their work includes:

Helping to develop & implement a client’s recovery plan

Teaching effective coping techniques & self-help strategies

Sharing their own recovery process

Advocating for their clients

How do you become a Peer Support Specialist?

Anyone interested in becoming a Peer Support Specialist must

Meet the eligibility criteria outlined by the state.

Complete KY state-certified training:

Adult Peer Support Specialist

- 30-hour training

Youth Peer Support Specialist

- 30-hour training

- Kentucky Youth Leadership Academy training

Family Peer Support Specialist

- 30-hour training

- Kentucky Family Leadership Academy training

Pass both a written and oral test.

For more information, check out this Frequently Asked Questions for Peer Support Specialists from Kentucky’s Department for Behavioral Health, Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities (DBHDID).

Does Seven Counties Services provide PSS training?

Yes, you can see our upcoming trainings on Eventbrite or our Website.