Your Story Can Change Lives
Become a Peer Recovery Specialist with NJPN today.
Join a Growing Field in Peer Recovery Support
A Peer Recovery Specialist is someone with lived experience of recovery from a substance use disorder. They provide non-clinical, strengths-based support and walk alongside people on their recovery journey. Through shared understanding, respect, and empowerment, peer support workers help people become and stay engaged in the recovery process and reduce the likelihood of relapse.
NJPN’s Peer Recovery Support Training Program offers training for peer workers in DMHAS peer programs. Not all positions require formal certification, but there are two peer certifications supported by the NJ DMHAS for peer workers interested in NJ or National peer credential. Explore the peer web pages to learn more.
Professional Guidance
The NJPN team provides individualized support and professional guidance to every Invest in You student.
Professional Development
Peer Recovery Career Pathways
Peer Recovery Specialists can work in a variety of settings including treatment agencies, recovery organizations, hospitals and emergency departments, law enforcement agencies, prevention agencies, educational settings, behavioral health organizations, and in many more community sectors. The services provided are non-clinical and utilize unique skill sets which focus on initiating or maintaining sustained recovery and overall wellness.
Peer Recovery Specialist
Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) (NCPRSS)
Recovery Support Care Coordinator
Peer Supervisor (Non-Clinical)
A Growing Field With a Variety of Careers
... and More!
Chart Your Course to Peer Recovery Certification
In New Jersey, Peer Recovery Specialists can obtain two credentials: the Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) from the Certification Board of NJ and the National Certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist (NCPRSS) from the National Certification for Addiction Professionals (NCC-AP). Learn more about these certifications and how NJPN can help you get certified.
Interested in becoming Peer certified? These trainings are approved for and can be applied towards initial NJ Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS/ICPRS) and the NAADAC National Certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist (NCPRSS) credentials.
Initial Certification Coursework
Take a variety of specialized trainings designed to expand knowledge and skills as a Peer Recovery Specialist. These trainings may count towards recertification hours for CPRS and NCPRSS credentials.
Specialty & Renewal Courses
Practice building motivation through dynamic simulated conversations with fictional people who are actively using. Apply skills to learn about their needs, what changes they want to make, and how you can help.
Simulation Training
Interested in becoming Peer certified? These trainings are approved for and can be applied towards initial NJ Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS/ICPRS) and the NAADAC National Certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist (NCPRSS) credentials.
Mindfulness Training
Elevate Your Peer Expertise
Unlock your full potential as a Peer Recovery Specialist through our comprehensive training opportunities. Earn your initial certification, maintain your credentials, and specialize your skills—all to empower the individuals you serve. Explore our diverse trainings and invest in your future today.
Interested in becoming Peer certified? These trainings are approved for and can be applied towards initial NJ Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS/ICPRS) and the NAADAC National Certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist (NCPRSS) credentials.
Initial Certification Coursework
Take a variety of specialized trainings designed to expand knowledge and skills as a Peer Recovery Specialist. These trainings may count towards recertification hours for CPRS and NCPRSS credentials.
Specialty & Renewal Courses
Practice building motivation through dynamic simulated conversations with fictional people who are actively using. Apply skills to learn about their needs, what changes they want to make, and how you can help.
Simulation Training
Interested in becoming Peer certified? These trainings are approved for and can be applied towards initial NJ Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS/ICPRS) and the NAADAC National Certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist (NCPRSS) credentials.
Mindfulness Training
SUPPORT OPPORTUNITIES
Resources for Success
FAQ
Have Questions?
Step 1: Obtain Employment
Your journey to certification begins with securing a peer recovery specialist position within a DMHAS (Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services) Peer Program.
Step 2: Sign up with NJPN for Training
NJPN offers two trainings that are required for the NJ peer certification (CPRS) and National certification (NCPRSS), those trainings are the 18-hour DMHAS Required Ethics Training, and CCAR’s 30-hour Recovery Coach Academy.
Step 3: Apply for Certification
The Certified Peer Recovery Specialist certification is provided by the Certification Board of NJ and requires no exam. The National Certified Peer Recovery Specialist certification is provided by NAADAC and does require passing an exam.
Step 4: Maintain your Certification
NJPN makes it easy to keep your certification current with our advanced renewal continuing education trainings.
What is the path to peer certification?
The CPRS certification qualifies you to provide direct peer recovery support services specifically within the state of New Jersey. It is widely recognized by most employers across the state, making it an excellent choice if you plan to work in New Jersey.
On the other hand, the NCPRSS certification is nationally recognized, allowing you to provide peer recovery services across state lines. This certification is particularly beneficial if you anticipate relocating or working outside of New Jersey in the near future.
What is the difference between a CPRS (Certified Peer Recovery Specialist) and a NCPRSS (National Certified Peer Recovery Specialist)?
To obtain the CPRS (Certified Peer Recovery Specialist) credential, you must complete 46 hours of training. This can be achieved by attending the 30-hour Recovery Coach Academy and the 18-hour DMHAS Required Ethics training that we offer.
To obtain the NCPRSS (National Certified Peer Recovery Specialist) credential, a total of 60 hours of training is required. In addition to the 30-hour Recovery Coach Academy and the 18-hour DMHAS Required Ethics training, you must complete an additional 6 hours of HIV and Bloodborne Pathogens training and 6 hours of Recovery Oriented Systems of Care (ROSC) training. These additional trainings are separate from those required for the CPRS credential.
What trainings are required for the initial application for the CPRS and NCPRSS?
To renew either the CPRS (Certified Peer Recovery Specialist) or NCPRSS (National Certified Peer Recovery Specialist) credential, you must complete 20 hours of continuing education every two years.
These credits must cover the four domains of peer recovery:
Advocacy
Ethical Responsibility
Mentoring and Education
Recovery/Wellness Support
What are the renewal requirements for the CPRS and NCPRSS certifications?
No, there are no fees for the required trainings. NJPN is funded by DMHAS (Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services) to provide these trainings at no cost to individuals who are working or volunteering within DMHAS-funded Peer Initiatives.
Are there fees for the required trainings?
NJPN’s peer recovery support services, trainings and resources are made available and supported by the New Jersey Department of Human Services, Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) State Opioid Response grant.