Frequently Asked Questions
Who provides this peer support specialist training?
This particular Peer Support Specialist Training is provided by Path to Prime, LLC. There are also other organizations who provide Peer Support Specialist Training in Idaho and each training entity has a different application process.
What is the primary qualification I have to meet in order to attend the training?
You must identify as a person who has lived experience with your own mental health challenges and a mental health recovery journey and have at least one (1) ongoing and continuous year in strong recovery. Please read the Peer Support Specialist Training Guide linked at the bottom of the page to learn about additional qualifications that are required to attend the training.
What should I do before applying to the training?
Be sure to visit the training page to read the application instructions and Peer Support Specialist Training Guide and reflect on the questions at the end of the guide. It's very important for you to educate yourself about the training and profession you are pursuing.
How do I apply?
Visit the training page to read the application instructions and apply online using the button at the bottom of the page.
What happens after I submit an application?
You will receive a link to schedule your phone interview. Please sign up for a phone interview time and ensure your reference letters are submitted by the time of your phone interview. After your reference letters have been submitted and you have completed your phone interview, a training facilitator will inform you about whether you have been accepted into the training.
How much does the training cost?
The training fee is $650. This fee includes all training materials but does not include lunch, travel, or accommodations. There are no scholarships available at this time, and we encourage each applicant who has a relationship with an employer to inquire about financial assistance to attend the training if needed. You can also research and contact the following programs to see if you qualify for their financial support: Vocational Rehabilitation, Idaho Employment and Training Services, Department of Labor, Equus Workforce Solutions.
How does certification work?
Check out the certification page to learn about the process for becoming certified as a peer support specialist in Idaho.
How do I get a job?
Most certified peer support specialists work at mental health agencies. There are occasional job opportunities available at community recovery centers, crisis centers, state hospitals, the VA, and the Department of Health and Welfare. We recommend using online job search websites and contacting mental health agencies in your area to inquire about their job opportunities. We also have a small job board here.
What are the continuing education requirements for certified peer support specialists?
Check out our continuing education page to learn more.
What types of challenges do certified peer support specialists encounter?
Certified peer support specialists typically do a lot of commuting using their own vehicle, they are often paid by the billable hour so their take home pay can vary from month to month, they do quite a bit of paperwork, and they sometimes have to explain their role to colleagues and coworkers who are not familiar with peer support values. It's important to determine how you feel about these types of challenges and those described in the Peer Support Training Guide linked at the bottom of the page. We strongly recommend doing the self-reflection at the end of the training guide to decide if the peer support profession is right for you.
What resources are available to agencies who are starting or sustaining peer support programs?
This guide is one of the most comprehensive resources available at this time. It was developed by the city of Philadelphia and describes best practices for peer support programming that apply to all states. The National Association of Peer Supporters also has a great database of resources. Check out our resources page as well.
How do I request a Peer Support Training in my area?
If you do not see a location on the training page that is convenient for you and would like us to hold a training in your area, please consider the following:
Trainings must have 16-20 attendees in order for training costs to be covered.
Our screening process remains in place for all trainings and application instructions can be found on the training page.
It's ideal for you to provide training space in your area that can accommodate a large group for a full week.
We would be happy to work with you to discuss how we can help address your training needs. Feel free to contact Jess Wojcik jess@idahopeersupport.com.
Still have questions? Please read the Peer Support Specialist Training Guide linked below for a comprehensive overview of the training and peer support profession. Feel free to contact jess@idahopeersupport.com if you still have questions after reading the training guide in full. We're happy to help!