Pacific Clinics Peer Careers Program
The Pacific Clinics Peer Careers program includes the 80-hour Certified Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist (CMPSS) training, support to successfully pass the CMPSS exam and obtain state certification, help to obtain a peer position/internship or support to maintain a peer job, career counseling and guidance for up to six months post placement. Need-based financial assistance is available to help pay application and exam fees.
The following are some of the participation commitment expectations:
- Attend career counseling/planning sessions
- Commit to attending and successfully completing the 80 hr. Training/Professional Certification
- Commit to taking the peer certification exam with 2 months of completing your training
- With the assistance of the Program Coordinator, actively seek and secure employment providing peer services in the behavioral health care field
- Retain employment for a minimum period of 6 months after certification. (attend support groups to retain employment and re-placement if needed)
Admission Criteria:
Prior to admission to the PC Peer Careers program, applicants must meet the following:
- Are at least 17 years old
- Have at least a GED or High School Diploma
- Have lived experience and are able to promote hope and recovery to others
- Are legally permitted to work in the United States
- Are willing to commit to attend an 80-hour training, take the state certification exam, and actively seek and/or maintain employment in the behavioral health field
- Commit to employment retention services for six months
Applicants are reviewed on an ongoing basis and must attend an initial orientation and career planning meeting to be considered for this program.
Funded through California’s Department of Health Care Access and Information’s (HCAI) the PC Peer Careers Program includes:
Career Counseling:
You will be assigned a program coordinator who will work with you to develop a career plan so you can be successful in your new peer career.
Training/Professional Certification:
Once you complete your career plan, you will complete the 80-hour certification training, apply for the certification, and pass the exam. Your assigned program coordinator will support you through the process.
Financial Assistance:
Limited financial assistance is available to cover the cost of the application and exam fees based on need. Your program coordinator can assist you with applying for financial assistance.
Job Placement:
Your program coordinator will assist you in seeking and securing employment by helping you with your resume, job applications, interviewing, finding job openings in your area and referring you to open peer positions.
Retention Services:
Your program coordinator will check in with you monthly for up to 6 months to support you in successfully retaining employment as a certified peer support specialist. Support groups are available.
Your Role as a Program Participant:
PC Peer Careers Program is designed to train and place peers in the behavioral health care field. We ask that you abide by the following guidelines:
- Attend appointments/training as scheduled and be on time – attendance is closely monitored.
- Reach out to a program representative if you will be absent or late.
- Be neatly groomed and dress appropriately when attending appointments/training.
- Honesty on employment applications is expected. We cannot support you in placement if you are hired with false information on your application.
- Be an active part of your plan – ask questions when needed to understand any part of your services with us.
- Be courteous and helpful to others – you can expect the same in return.
Contact Info: pcpeercareers@pacificclinics.org | (626) 802-7755
Apply Here
