Welcome to the North Carolina Certified Peer Support Specialist (NCCPSS) Program Resource Page. Here you’ll find key policies, data, peer support documents, and answers to frequently asked questions. For additional support, submit a ticket or access self-help resources via our Freshdesk Support.

Certified Peer Support Specialists (CPSS): CPSS are individuals who have personally experienced and are in recovery from a mental illness and/or substance use disorder. They are uniquely trained to provide support to others who can benefit from their lived experiences. The North Carolina Certified Peer Support Specialist Program, a rigorous and comprehensive training program, ensures that these peers have met a set of requirements necessary to support individuals with mental health or substance use disorders. It's important to note that not everyone with recovery experience in mental health or substance use disorders is a CPSS.

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.

Hiring/Supervising Certified Peer Support Specialists: Behavioral health services and peer-run organizations hire Certified Peer Support Specialists to support individuals in their recovery journey. Thus, Certified Peer Support Specialists must adhere to the organization's policies and assigned duties consistent with the role of a Certified Peer Support Specialist. The organization must also have policies that support Certified Peer Support Specialists in sustaining their recovery while working. It is critical to support Certified Peer Support Specialists through supervision. The North Carolina Certified Peer Support Specialist Program encourages supervisors to complete the "Supervising NC Certified Peer Support Specialists" training before supervising Certified Peer Support Specialists.

Certification & Recertification Requirements
Learn the steps, timelines, and eligibility criteria for initial CPSS certification and recertification.

Trainer & Course Policies
Information on course expiration, extensions, and requirements for trainers.

Code of Ethics & Professional Conduct
Review the standards and professional expectations for all certified peer support specialists.

Late Recertification & Complaints Policy
Understand procedures, fees, and potential outcomes if recertification is submitted late or a complaint is filed.

For complete Program policies on certification, training, and related procedures, click HERE

Program Statistics
View statewide data on certified CPSS, training completions, and demographics HERE

Some common questions include:

How do I apply for CPSS certification or recertification?
What happens if I have a complaint pending during the application?
Can I use AI or get help to write my recovery statement?
How do I become a trainer or host a training?
What are the fees associated with certification or late recertification?
Where can I find the course schedule?

Please click HERE for responses to these questions.

For additional questions, such as:

  • How do I access or edit my application?
  • How do I upload certificates to my application?

Check the Freshdesk Support HERE

 

 

HELPFUL THINGS TO KNOW

Freshdesk Guidance: For technical issues, application questions, or policy clarification, submit a ticket through the Freshdesk portal.

Freshdesk also houses the most up-to-date FAQs, so check there before reaching out by email.

Policy Updates: Policies may be updated periodically. Always check the Policies section for the latest versions and downloadable PDFs.

Contacting the Program: For help with applications, training, or other technical issues, use the Freshdesk Support Portal: Submit a ticket or browse FAQs HERE