Certified Peer Support Specialist Training Application

A Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS) is a trained professional who uses their personal, lived experience with mental health or substance use recovery to mentor, guide, and support others on their own healing journeys. The Region 7E Adult Mental Health Initiative is pleased to be in a position to offer full CPSS training for up to 11 individuals with priority given to residents of Region 7E (Chisago, Isanti, Kanabec, Mille Lacs, and Pine counties and the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe).

Eligibility and Requirements:
RI International Certified Peer Support Specialist Training (CPSS) or Certified Peer Specialist Training is recognized around the world. To date, they have trained over 15,000 individuals worldwide. Their CPSS Training is certified curriculum in several states, including Arizona, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, and California. It is an approved curriculum of the Veteran's Administration in certifying Peer Support Specialists. CPSS Training has been developed and updated through the years, to support individuals in developing a unique set of skills needed to work as a Peer Support Specialist.

Completion Requirements / Guidelines

  • Must earn a final grade of 80% or higher based on participation, attendance, and test scores.
  • Must achieve consistent attendance; missing no more than 8 total hours of training.
  • Training is 8:30am-4:30pm. Participants must not miss the following training modules:
    • Orientation: Friday, November 6, 2026
    • Module 1, first day of training: Monday, November 9, 2026
    • Story day: Friday, November 13, 2026
    • Ethics and boundaries day: Monday, November 16, 2026
    • Final exam day: Friday, November 20, 2026

Applicants may apply using our online form or may apply using a PDF form.

For Additional Information

Amanda Stevenson, Region 7E AMHI Planner
Isanti County Health & Human Services
Oakview Office Complex, Suite A
1700 E Rum River Drive S, Cambridge MN 55008
Direct: 763.688.2511
Fax: 763.689.9877
Amanda.Stevenson@co.isanti.mn.us

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