Peer Support Specialist (PSS)

A Peer Support Specialist (PSS) is any [range of] individuals who provide supportive services to a current or former consumer of mental health or addiction treatment. (From ORS 414.025).

Peer Support Specialist Training Requirements for Certification

• Complete an approved training program; or
• Provide documentation that you are certified by a group other than the Oregon Health Authority that requires completion of an approved training program and at least 20 hours of continuing education every three years; or
• Provide documentation that you have worked or volunteered as a peer support specialist for at least 2000 hours in Oregon from January 1, 2004 to June 30, 2019.
• Peer Support Specialists are required to complete THW Oral Health for Peer Support and Peer Wellness Training Program, in addition to your approved training program curricula.

Application

• Traditional Health Work Certification and Renewal Application *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.

• Traditional Health Worker Registry

FAQs

Do you have a Civil Rights Complaint or concern regarding THW-PSS services?

• Webinar on Oregon Health Authority's Non-discrimination Policy for the Public/Individual
• Complaint Form 

For additional Information about the THW program, please contact us at:

Telephone: 971-673-3353
Fax: 971-673-1128
Email: thw.program@odhsoha.oregon.gov