Provider/Workforce Technical Assistance

Certified Peer Support Specialists (CPSS) are individuals with lived experience of mental illness and/or substance use disorders who are actively engaged in recovery. They are specially trained to use their experiences to support others on similar recovery journeys. The NCCPSS Program ensures that CPSS meet established standards and requirements necessary to assist individuals with mental health or substance use challenges effectively. It is important to note that not everyone with lived experience in recovery is a CPSS; certification requires specific training, competencies, and adherence to program standards.

What are the common methods of delivering peer support services?

Peer Support services are provided through organizations that contract with their local LME/MCO, per the Medicaid and state Peer Support Services (Medicaid Peer Support Service Definition). The Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Use Services mandates that Certified Peer Support Specialists must deliver all peer support services billed through Medicaid or State funds. For additional information, follow this link: Certified Peer Support Specialists | NCDHHS. Some of the common methods of delivering peer support services are as follows:

One-on-one support: CPSS works directly with individuals to encourage recovery, share recovery strategies, support goal-setting, and help navigate systems such as behavioral health, housing, and employment services.

Group facilitation: CPSS may lead or co-facilitate support groups that create a safe space for shared experiences, mutual learning, and community building.

Community-based support: Services are often delivered in natural settings, such as homes, community centers, or public spaces, helping individuals build skills in real-world settings.

Clinical and integrated care settings: CPSS may be part of multidisciplinary teams in outpatient clinics, hospitals, or integrated care settings, contributing a recovery-oriented perspective to care planning and service delivery.

Telehealth and virtual support: Peer support can also be delivered through phone calls, video conferencing, or messaging platforms, increasing access for individuals who may face barriers to in-person services.

Crisis and recovery support: In some settings, peers provide support during or after a crisis, helping individuals stabilize, connect to resources, and develop recovery plans.

Behavioral health service providers and peer-run organizations employ CPSS to support individuals in their recovery journeys. In these roles, CPSS are expected to follow organizational policies and fulfill responsibilities aligned with the scope of peer support practice.

Organizations also play a critical role in supporting CPSS by establishing policies and practices that promote their ongoing recovery and well-being in the workplace. Effective supervision is essential to this support. The NCCPSS Program strongly encourages supervisors to complete the “Supervising NC Certified Peer Support Specialists” training before overseeing CPSS.

The NCCPSS Program provides workforce technical assistance to enhance the peer support workforce and service quality throughout North Carolina. We work with providers (agencies), supervisors, and CPSS to build effective, sustainable peer support programs that align with state standards and the values of lived experience. This support also ensures that peer support services are implemented with quality, integrity, and fidelity to the NCCPSS Program standards.

Our goal is to ensure that Certified Peer Support Specialists and their employers have the necessary tools, knowledge, and support to deliver high-quality, recovery-oriented services.

Our team guides on:

• Program Implementation
• Supervision and workforce development
• Training and certification
• Quality Improvement and Evaluation

Whether you’re launching a new peer program, refining existing services, or seeking consultation on specific challenges, we’re here to help.

Use the "Request TA Meeting" tab to connect with us and request individualized support, or to learn more about available resources and learning opportunities.

The NCCPSS Program team provides tailored guidance and resources in the following areas:

Program Implementation

• Integrating Certified Peer Support Specialists into service settings
• Clarifying peer roles and responsibilities within clinical and non-clinical teams
• Aligning program practices with Medicaid and state service definitions

Supervision and Workforce Development

• Building effective supervision models for CPSSs
• Developing onboarding, mentorship, and retention strategies
• Supporting supervisors in maintaining role fidelity and ethical boundaries

Training and Certification

• Understanding NCCPSS training, certification, and recertification requirements
• Supporting agencies in identifying approved training providers
• Providing clarification on course implementation standards

Quality Improvement and Evaluation

• Assessing workforce needs and training outcomes
• Using data to strengthen service delivery and workforce sustainability

Who Can Request Technical Assistance

We offer TA to a wide range of partners, including:

• Behavioral health providers and agencies employing Certified Peer Support Specialists
• Peer-run and recovery community organizations
• Certified Peer Support Specialists and supervisors
• Training organizations and community colleges
• Local Management Entities/Managed Care Organizations (LME/MCOs)
• State and community partners supporting the peer workforce

Technical Assistance Process

The NCCPSS Program makes it easy to request and receive support for your organization or program. 

• Submit a Request
  Requests may be submitted by email to the Program at nccpssprogram@unc.edu
• Review and Response
  The NCCPSS Program team will review your request and contact you within 3-5 business days to confirm receipt and schedule a meeting. During this contact, the team may gather any additional information as needed.
• Receive Support and Resources
  Meet with our team to discuss your needs, explore potential solutions, and receive personalized guidance, tools, and follow-up resources tailored to your specific requirements.

If your request is urgent or time-sensitive, please include “Urgent” in the email subject line.