Alliance Note: The New York Peer Specialist Certification Board, overseen by the Mental Health Empowerment Project (MHEP), will now offer a pathway for Youth Peer Advocates to get their Certified Peer Specialist- Provisional Certification. This new track will allow far more Youth Peer Advocates to translate their expertise and experience into a peer specialist career. We are excited to not only see youth peer advocates continue their journey in offering others comprehensive services, but also to see the number of peer specialists in New York grow as we aim to meet the ever-increasing demand for peer support. See below for more information.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 14, 2024
CONTACT: Amy Colesante, Chief Executive Officer, Mental Health Empowerment Project, Inc. acolesante@mhepinc.org, 518-434-1393
NYPSCB LAUNCHES NEW CERTIFICATION PATHWAY
ALBANY, NY: The Mental Health Empowerment Project (MHEP), which oversees the New York Peer Specialist Certification Board (NYPSCB), is thrilled to announce the launch of a groundbreaking pathway initiative. This program enables Youth Peer Advocates to obtain their New York Certified Peer Specialist – Provisional (NYCPS-P) certification.
This initiative significantly enhances professional development and career opportunities for Youth Peer Advocates (YPAs) and Certified Peer Specialists (CPS) across New York State. YPAs are uniquely positioned to draw on their personal experiences to engage, inspire hope, and empower young people facing various social, emotional, medical, developmental and behavioral challenges. Similarly, CPSs use their lived experiences to support peers in navigating their recovery and wellness journeys. The new pathway provides a streamlined process for both groups, further validating their skills and experience in the behavioral health field.
Peer support is recognized as an evidence-based practice that improves outcomes and the quality of life for individuals with behavioral health conditions, contributing to a more robust mental health care system.
“We are excited to see the launch of this pathway, which underscores our commitment to supporting the professional growth of Youth Peer Advocates and Certified Peer Specialists,” said Taina Laing, President of the NYPSCB Board of Directors. “This initiative not only recognizes the invaluable lived experiences of YPAs and CPSs but also strengthens the support network for individuals navigating their recovery and wellness journeys. By streamlining the certification process and providing a clear career pathway, we are enabling Youth Peer Advocates and Certified Peer Specialists to utilize their lived experiences to provide peer support across the lifespan. We also want to thank the New York State Office of Mental Health for embracing peer support and helping to make this initiative possible. This initiative will significantly enhance the quality of peer support available to everyone throughout New York State.”
Amy Colesante, Chief Executive Officer of the Mental Health Empowerment Project, shared her excitement about the launch. “We are thrilled to be part of this innovative initiative that opens new career opportunities for emerging peer leaders. This pathway not only provides professional development but also empowers young people to become advocates and leaders in their communities. The collaborative effort will create a stronger, more resilient peer support network in New York State.”
Youth Peer Advocates and Certified Peer Specialists interested in exploring this two-way pathway can complete the application on the NYPSCB website. For more information on the application process and requirements, please visit www.nypscb.org.