Peer Support Specialist training:
Upcoming 2025-2026 sessions

Medi-Cal peer support specialist training will be offered via Zoom during two upcoming cohorts:

August 8 – November 8, 2025

Sessions: Fridays, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.; Saturdays, noon – 4 p.m.

Mandatory orientation (choose one): June 18, 6 p.m. – 7 p.m., or July 10, 6 p.m. – 7 p.m.

January 6 – April 8, 2026

Sessions: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.

Mandatory orientation (choose one): November 20, 6 p.m. – 7 p.m., or December 4, 6 p.m. – 7 p.m.

Application requirements:

• Must be 18 or older
• High school diploma or GED (proof required for certification)
• Reliable internet access
• Lived experience with mental health challenges, substance abuse, or as a family caregiver of someone experiencing these issues
• At least six months in recovery
• Agreement to participate actively in class and role-play exercises

Application process:

1. Confirm eligibility based on requirements above.
2. Attend a mandatory orientation via Zoom on one of the specified dates.
3. After orientation, schedule an in-person readiness interview.

Questions?

Contact Hope Rogers, peer education instructor, at hope.rogers@westcountyservices.org or call 707-565-7806.

Applications are currently being accepted for all cohorts.

Welcome to Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist Training

Are you passionate about making a difference in the lives of individuals navigating healthcare challenges? Med-Cal Peer Support Specialist Training equips you with the tools and knowledge to provide compassionate and effective support for individuals receiving services in order to regain control over their lives and their own unique recovery process.

Our Mission

Our goal is to support empowerment of individuals with the skills needed to create supportive, empathetic, and informed connections. Whether you aim to work in hospitals, clinics, community organizations, or private practice, this training provides the foundation to excel as a Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist.

What is Medi-Cal Peer Support?

Medi-Cal Peer Support involves trained individuals offering emotional, social, and practical assistance to those dealing with:

• Mental health challenges
• Substance abuse recovery

By sharing lived experiences and evidence-based strategies, Peer Support Specialists foster hope and resilience while complementing professional healthcare services.

Who Should Enroll?

Our program is open to:

• Individuals with lived experience of mental health challenges and/or alcohol/substance abuse
• Family caregivers of those with lived experience of mental health challenges and/or substance abuse

No prior medical background is required, though a commitment to learning and supporting others is essential.

Program Benefits

Community Impact: Make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and families

Personal Growth: Develop valuable communication, empathy and problem-solving skills

Flexible Learning: Choose from different time and date offerings via Zoom

Why Choose Us?

Experienced Instructor: Hope Rogers is a professional with lived experience and many years in recovery and Peer Support

Comprehensive Curriculum: Our evidence-based program ensures you’re prepared for real-world challenges

Supportive Community: Join a network of like-minded individuals dedicated to fostering hope and healing

80 Hours (14 Weeks) Training Includes:

Overview of Assignments

• Reading for Every Class
• Ten Response Papers – 1/2 to 1 page
• Two Essays – 1 to 2 pages
• Four Quizzes & One Final Exam
• Class Participation and Role Play

More about California Registered Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialists

Click the image below to learn more about becoming a registered Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist

About the State Exam

After completing the training you are eligible to take the state exam. Find out more about the state exam by clicking: California Peer Certification Exam.