Peer Wellness Specialist training:

The role of the Peer Wellness Specialist is to provide peer support, encouragement, and assistance to address physical and mental health needs. In order to do that, it is important that the Peer Wellness Specialist has a working knowledge of the various health care and wellness resources in their community and how to access these services and resources.

Being a Peer Wellness Specialist does not require a diagnosis – it is based on personal lived experience and identity. Lived experience is a key part of the Peer Wellness Specialist role and training. As PWS, we draw from our own background and experience to support others in their self-directed recovery.

MHAAO’s PWS training is available in two formats: virtual and in-person. Both formats consist of 80 hours of live, mandatory instruction, and some outside assignments. All of these must be completed for the participant to apply for their Peer Wellness Specialist and/or Certified Recovery Mentor certifications.

credentialing:

The Peer Company’s PWS is state-approved as a Peer Wellness Specialist (Adult Mental Health or Addiction) certification training through the Oregon Health Authority. Recognized through the Mental Health and Addiction Certification Board of Oregon as CRM-eligible training and as CEU training through NADAAC.

2025 Cohorts:

We will be offering in-person and virtual training options.

If the calendar doesn’t load, please refresh the page.

registration:

What is Required:

Both formats require full attendance to successfully complete the Optic training course.

If you are training online, please ensure you have a stable internet connection, as video and audio capabilities are required.

Training participants will not be eligible to become certified as a Peer Wellness Specialist until all course completion requirements are met.

MHAAO is mindful of class size to ensure all students get the attention and support necessary to succeed in the training without compromising quality.

The cost of the training is $1,100, effective as of 8/1/2021.

Application Guidelines

Complete applications will be reviewed on a first-come, first-serve basis. Applicants who have not secured funding for the training will not be considered complete. Once you complete this application, you will receive confirmation that it has been submitted.

Applications submitted within 7 days of the class start date are not guaranteed a spot. Training details and materials will be shared approximately 2 - 4 weeks prior to the training start date for the cohort for which you have applied.

Payment and refund Policy: 

Tuition payment (or a commitment to pay as outlined below)  is required to secure registration. MHAAO accepts credit cards and business or personal checks. Payment may be made online, over the phone, or as otherwise coordinated. 

A 3.5% processing fee may apply for payments made via credit card.

Self-Paying Individuals: Payment in full is to be received by the first day of training.

Organizations Funding an Individual: Payment is to be received by the first day of training. If payment is not received by the first day of training, a commitment to pay before the first day of training is required via email, purchase order, or Authorization for Purchase.

Cancellation & Refund Policy:  If registering two or fewer weeks prior to the training start date, you acknowledge that no refunds will be provided. If you submit a cancellation request two business days or more prior to the training start date, then you will be eligible to use your full training credit towards a future MHAAO training within a one-year period. No cash refund will be provided.