Peer Support Specialist (PSS)

PSS Certification Requirements

There are three ways that individuals can become an OHA-certified Peer Support Specialist:

• Option 1: Complete an approved training program 

• Option 2: Apply using Legacy Clause (see details below) 
  

• Option 3:  Apply using the Reciprocity (see details below) 

• PSS's are also required to complete THW Oral Health training
  
  

LEGACY CLAUSE

The Legacy Clause is an exemption that allows people who have been active in the field and who have lived experience, to apply to be state-certified as a THW (each worker-type has its own specific requirements). Individuals seeking THW certification and registry enrollment as a Legacy Clause for a Peer Support Specialist must provide:

• Proof of working or volunteering in the capacity for at least 2000 hours within the last five years.
• One letter of recommendation from any previous employer (manager/supervisor) for whom THW services were provided within the last five years. Letter must be on professional letterhead, must contain author's signature and contact information, and must state that the applicant has "lived experience." Job duties must be listed as they relate to the worker-type you are applying for.
  
• One letter from Human Resources stating total hours worked in the agency - listing all hours worked and dates of employment - or pay statement/paystub, services contract, student practicum, volunteer time log, or other documentation reflecting hours worked or volunteered. Letter must be on professional letterhead, must contain author's signature and contact information. Job duties must be listed as they relate to the worker-type you are applying for.

RECIPROCITY 

Individuals who hold an active PSS certification from the state of Washington or Idaho, and are in good standing with their certifying body, may be granted reciprocity or receive equivalent credit for previously completed training. Complete and submit reciprocity form to: THW.Program@oha.oregon.gov.

PSS Recertification Requirements 

Every three years, all PSS's must complete the required CEUs to renew their PSS certificate. 

• At least 20 hours of Continuing Education Units (CEUs) during every three-year renewal period for PSS - Adult Addictions and PSS - Adult Mental Health, only. 
• At least three of the 20 hours must be from suicide risk assessment, treatment, and management appropriate to the PSS scope of work. 
• At least 40 hours of Continuing Education Units (CEUs) during every three-year renewal period for PSS-Family Support Specialist as well as for PSS-Youth Specialist, only. The use of lived experience and ethical practice must be a topic included within the 40 hours.
  

A list of Suicide Prevention Trainings (PDF) 

Additional Suicide Prevention Trainings/CEUs

Raices de Bienestar Suicide Prevention for the Latinx Community Training CEUs

Responding with Care Suicide Prevention Training

Competency Test 

If your PSS certification has lapsed more than 6 months, you have the option of taking a Competency Test. You must submit proof of successful completion of the competency test along with the required CEUs. 

PSS-Adult Addictions and PSS-Adult Mental Health - Administered by FolkTime: Sign up form for PSS Competency Exam

PSS-Youth Support Specialist - Administered by Youth Era: Youth Support Specialist Competency Skills Test 

PSS-Family Support Specialist - Administered by Oregon Family Support Network: Family Support Specialist Competency Skills Test 

Application

• Apply for the Traditional Health Worker (THW) certification via the portal at https://healthworkforceregistry.oregon.gov/

• *Regarding recertification, for renewal purposes, we require applicants to apply within 60-90 days prior to their expiration date.

Once you are certified with the Oregon Health Authority, we will add you to our state registry. The registry is a reliable, trusted source for finding a traditional health worker in Oregon.