---
title: "Peer Support Specialist Training in California"
description: "Learn how to become a peer support specialist in California. Explore training, certification, and program options at InterCoast Colleges."
author: "Judy Redman"
date: "2023-11-29"
categories: ["Mental Health and Counseling Studies"]
canonical: "https://www.intercoast.edu/articles/peer-support-specialists-california/"
---

# Peer Support Specialist Training in California

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<div class="wp-block-yoast-seo-table-of-contents yoast-table-of-contents"><h2>Table of contents</h2><ul><li><a href="#h-what-is-peer-support" data-level="2">What Is Peer Support?</a></li><li><a href="#h-benefits-of-peer-support" data-level="2">Benefits of Peer Support</a></li><li><a href="#h-how-to-become-a-peer-support-specialist-in-california" data-level="2">How to Become a Peer Support Specialist in California</a></li><li><a href="#h-where-peer-support-specialists-work" data-level="2">Where Peer Support Specialists Work</a></li><li><a href="#h-salary-and-job-outlook-in-california" data-level="2">Salary and Job Outlook in California</a><ul><li><a href="#h-why-become-a-peer-support-specialist" data-level="3">Why Become a Peer Support Specialist?</a></li></ul></li><li><a href="#h-learn-more-about-peer-support-training" data-level="2">Learn More About Peer Support Training</a><ul><li><a href="#h-sources" data-level="3">Sources</a></li></ul></li></ul></div>
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<p>The mental health and substance use treatment sectors are rapidly expanding, and the role of <strong><a href="/programs/behavioral-health-assistant/">Peer Support Specialists (PSS)</a></strong> is becoming increasingly vital. These professionals draw on their lived experiences with mental health or substance use challenges to support others on their recovery journeys.</p>
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<p>In California, the demand for peer support services continues to rise due to the state’s diverse population and the growing need for mental health resources. If you’re considering a career in this rewarding field, this guide will help you understand the qualifications, benefits, and opportunities available.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-what-is-peer-support"><strong>What Is Peer Support?</strong></h2>
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<p><strong>Peer support</strong> involves individuals with lived experiences listening to, sharing with, and guiding others through their mental health challenges. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (<a href="https://www.nami.org/Advocacy/Policy-Priorities/Expanding-Crisis-Services/Peer-Support-Specialist-Training-and-Certification-Programs">NAMI</a>, 2022), peer support can:</p>
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<p>• Reduce isolation</p>
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<p>• Improve self-esteem</p>
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<p>• Enhance coping skills</p>
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<p>• Strengthen recovery outcomes</p>
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<p>Peer Support Specialists offer non-clinical support and complement clinical mental health services, promoting a sense of hope and empowerment.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-benefits-of-peer-support"><strong>Benefits of Peer Support</strong></h2>
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<p>Research has documented several advantages of peer support in mental health services:</p>
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<p>• <strong>Reduced Healthcare Costs</strong>: Peer support helps lower costs by improving patient outcomes and reducing hospital readmissions (<a href="https://www.cms.gov/cciio/programs-and-initiatives/certified-community-behavioral-health-clinics" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">CMS</a>, 2022).</p>
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<p>• <strong>Improved Patient Satisfaction</strong>: Patients report higher satisfaction levels when peer support is integrated into their care (<a href="https://doi.org/10.1016/j.wpsyc.2012.05.009" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Davidson</a> et al., 2012).</p>
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<p>• <strong>Increased Access</strong>: Peer support bridges gaps in mental health services, making care more accessible, particularly in underserved communities (<a href="https://doi.org/10.3109/09638237.2011.583947" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Repper &amp; Carter,</a> 2011).</p>
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<p>• <strong>Enhanced Recovery Outcomes</strong>: Peer-supported programs lead to better recovery results and a stronger sense of community for patients (<a href="https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD004807.pub2" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Pitt</a> et al., 2013).</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-how-to-become-a-peer-support-specialist-in-california"><strong>How to Become a Peer Support Specialist in California</strong></h2>
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<p>To become a Peer Support Specialist in California, you must meet the following requirements, as outlined by the <strong>California Behavioral Health Directors Association (<a href="https://www.californiapeers.org/peer-certification">CBHDA</a>, 2022)</strong>:</p>
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<p>1. <strong>Age</strong>: You must be at least 18 years old.</p>
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<p>2. <strong>Education</strong>: A high school diploma or equivalent (e.g., GED) is required.</p>
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<p>3. <strong>Lived Experience</strong>: Candidates must self-identify as individuals with personal experience in mental health or substance use recovery.</p>
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<p>4. <strong>Training</strong>: Completing an approved peer support training program is mandatory.</p>
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<p>5. <strong>Certification</strong>: Successfully pass a certification exam to demonstrate competency.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-where-peer-support-specialists-work"><strong>Where Peer Support Specialists Work</strong></h2>
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<p>Peer Support Specialists can work in a variety of settings, including:</p>
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<p>• <strong>Community Mental Health Centers</strong>: Providing support to diverse populations.</p>
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<p>• <strong>County Mental Health Facilities</strong>: Supporting individuals in local programs.</p>
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<p>• <strong>Treatment Centers</strong>: Assisting patients in recovery-focused environments.</p>
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<p>• <strong>One-on-One Settings</strong>: Offering personalized, non-clinical guidance to clients.</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-salary-and-job-outlook-in-california"><strong>Salary and Job Outlook in California</strong></h2>
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<p>The job outlook for Peer Support Specialists is positive, driven by increasing demand and a shortage of qualified professionals (<a href="https://www.aurrerahealth.com/california-pursues-addition-of-peer-support-specialist-services-to-list-of-med-cal-covered-behavioral-health-services/">Aurrera Health</a>, 2021). Salaries vary based on location and experience, so research pay rates and working conditions in your area before applying.</p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-why-become-a-peer-support-specialist"><strong>Why Become a Peer Support Specialist?</strong></h3>
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<p>Becoming a Peer Support Specialist is a unique opportunity to turn personal experiences into meaningful work. With proper training and certification, you can:</p>
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<p>• Enhance mental healthcare access and outcomes</p>
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<p>• Build a fulfilling career in a growing field</p>
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<p>• Make a lasting impact on individuals and communities</p>
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<h2 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-learn-more-about-peer-support-training"><strong>Learn More About Peer Support Training</strong></h2>
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<p>Proper training is essential if you’re ready to begin your journey as a Peer Support Specialist. Programs like those offered by <a href="/">InterCoast Colleges</a> provide the education and skills needed to succeed in this rewarding profession.</p>
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<h3 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-sources"><strong>Sources</strong></h3>
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<p>• Aurrera Health. (2021). <a href="https://www.aurrerahealth.com/california-pursues-addition-of-peer-support-specialist-services-to-list-of-med-cal-covered-behavioral-health-services/">California Pursues Addition of Peer Support Specialist Services</a></p>
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<p>• BLS. (2022). <a href="https://www.bls.gov/careeroutlook/2017/youre-a-what/peer-support-specialist.htm">Peer Support Specialists</a></p>
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<p>• CBHDA. (2022). <a href="https://www.californiapeers.org/peer-certification">Peer Support Specialist Certification</a></p>
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<p>• CMS. (2022). <a href="https://www.cms.gov/cciio/programs-and-initiatives/certified-community-behavioral-health-clinics">Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics</a></p>
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<p>• NAMI. (2022). <a href="https://www.nami.org/Advocacy/Policy-Priorities/Expanding-Crisis-Services/Peer-Support-Specialist-Training-and-Certification-Programs">Peer Support Specialist Training</a></p>
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