Peer Wellness Specialist (PWS)

A Peer Wellness Specialist (PWS) is an individual who has lived experience with a psychiatric condition(s) plus intensive training, who works as part of a person-driven, health home team, integrating behavioral health and primary care to assist and advocate for individuals in achieving well-being.

Peer Wellness Specialist Training Requirements for Certification

• Complete an approved training program; or
• Provide documentation that you have worked or volunteered as a traditional health worker for at least 3000 hours in Oregon from January 1, 2004 to June 30, 2019; or
• If you have completed some or all of the certification training requirements, you may be able to count previously - completed training toward certification
• Peer Wellness Specialist are required to complete THW Oral Health for Peer Support and Peer Wellness Training Program, in addition to your approved training program curricula.

Application

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

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 

Additional Resources for PHW

• THW's Doulas, CHW and Peers Health Worker Presentation

Do you have a Civil Rights Complaint or concern regarding THW-PWS 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