Home / Blog / Becoming a Certified Peer Specialist

How to Become a Certified Peer Specialist in New York

November 4, 2026

Adult peer specialists use their own recovery to help other people with theirs. New York has two main adult peer credentials: one for mental health and one for addiction recovery.

Certified Peer Specialist (mental health)

The New York Certified Peer Specialist (NYCPS) credential comes from the New York Peer Specialist Certification Board, whose members are appointed by the state Office of Mental Health.

Full certification

• You are actively in recovery from a mental health condition or a major life disruption.
• A high school diploma or equivalent
• All 13 core courses from the Academy of Peer Services
• 2,000 hours of peer specialist experience

Provisional certification

The provisional credential (NYCPS-P) has no work experience requirement, but you still complete the 13 core courses. It lets you start working while you build your hours.

Certified Recovery Peer Advocate (addiction recovery)

For peers in recovery from substance use, the Certified Recovery Peer Advocate (CRPA) credential is overseen by the New York Certification Board, the only body the state Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS) authorizes for it. You need:

• To be at least 18 years old
• A high school diploma or GED
• 50 hours of required training
• 500 hours of related volunteer or work experience
• 25 hours of supervision
• A passing score on the IC&RC exam

A provisional CRPA is valid for two years, and full certification for three.

Which one is right for you

If your lived experience is with mental health, start on the Certified Peer Specialist path. If it is with addiction, the CRPA fits. Peers ages 18 to 30 can also become Youth Peer Advocates and work with teens and young adults.

Peer work at FSS NY

Our adult peer support program matches adults 18 and older with peers who have lived experience of recovery. We hire Peer Support Providers: the job page lists the pay and requirements, or email staff@fssny.org.

Questions?

Call or text 516-400-3040. Email info@fssny.org about programs or staff@fssny.org about jobs.

More From Our Blog

• What Is Youth Peer Support? A Guide for New York Families
• How to Become a Youth Peer Advocate in New York
• How to Become a Respite Provider in New York City