Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ about Peer Academy
Are Training Sessions Conducted online?
Are there any prerequisites to enrolling in Peer Academy training?
- Have the PeerForce orientation completed and the attestation document.
- Meet the age requirement of 18 years or older
- Possess a high school diploma or equivalent
- Have personal experience with mental health challenges
- Willing to share one’s recovery story in a suitable manner
- Able to show ongoing self-directed recovery journey
How do I get Started to Enroll in the Certification?
- Sign up for PeerForce and complete the Orientation and Attestation.
- Complete the Core training and pass the assessment.
- Enrolling in Speciality training for your chosen certification MHPS.
Where can I find the Training Schedules?
We also recommend following our Facebook and Instagram pages to stay up-to-date with the latest news and updates from Peer Academy, including new training schedules and upcoming events.
Is Training Available for students outside Texas?
Additionally, please be aware that completing a training session outside of Texas may not count towards certification in your state. We recommend checking with your state’s regulatory agency or professional organization to determine if our training sessions will fulfill any certification or continuing education requirements.
Are the Trainers Practicing and Certified Peer Specialists?
Our trainers are passionate about their work and are dedicated to helping students develop the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in their careers as peer specialists. You can be confident that you are learning from experienced professionals who are committed to your success.
FAQ about Financial Aid
Is there financial Aid available from Peer Academy?
Eligibility for the program and enrollment instructions can be found here.
Please note that this program has specific eligibility criteria and is only available to a limited number of participants.
Is there any other Financial Aid Options Available?
- PeerForce – PeerForce offers training vouchers that can be used for MHPS specialty training with Peer Academy. These vouchers are limited in availability and can be checked for more information on the PeerForce website. If you are interested in applying for financial aid, please visit the PeerForce website for more information and to see if you are eligible.
- Texas Workforce Commission – The Texas Workforce Commission offers a variety of financial aid programs for core, MHPS, and RSPS specialty training. Visit the Texas Workforce Commission website for more information and to see if you qualify for financial aid.
How can I apply for Financial Aid?
Applicants must demonstrate a real need for financial assistance and do well in their training in order to be eligible.
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or need further guidance on the application process. We are here to help.
What is the eligibility to meet the stipends?
FAQ about a Career in Peer Support
What is the difference between Peer Support, Traditional Counseling Therapy, and Coaching?
Traditional Counseling Therapy typically involves a licensed mental health professional working with a client to diagnose and treat mental health disorders. The focus is on diagnosing and treating the individual’s symptoms through a combination of talk therapy, medication management, and other treatment modalities.
Coaching, on the other hand, is typically focused on goal-setting, skill-building, and helping clients achieve specific personal or professional objectives. The coach works collaboratively with the client to develop a plan of action, provide guidance and support, and hold the client accountable for taking steps to achieve their goals.
While there is some overlap between these models, the main difference lies in the approach and focus of each. Traditional counseling therapy is typically more clinically focused, coaching is typically more action-oriented, and peer support is typically more experiential and relational. Peer Support, in particular, requires previous lived experience.
What do I need to be a Certified Peer Specialist?
- Meet the age requirement of 18 years or older
- Have personal experience with mental health and/or substance use issues
- Possess a high school diploma or equivalent
- Willing to share one’s recovery story in a suitable manner
- Able to show ongoing self-directed recovery journey
- Pass any required criminal history and registry background checks.
- Living in Texas
Is Being a Peer Specialist a Good Career Path?
Which Certification is right for me?
You can become dual-certified if you have lived experiences in both fields, or choose the area that appeals to you the most.
Please note that Peer Academy provides only the following training:
- Core Training (Core Training is required for MHPS and RSPS both)
- Mental Health Peer Specialist (MHPS) Specialty Training.
Peer Academy does not currently offer Recovery Support Peer Specialist (RSPS) training, but it may be available in the future.

Any more questions about Peer Academy?
