Who is Eligible to Enroll in DBSA’s Peer Specialist Course?
Those wishing to enroll must be
- 18 or older
- Someone with lived experience of one or more of the following: trauma, mental health, and/or a substance use condition
- Be publicly willing to identify as someone who lives with trauma, mental health, and/or a substance use condition
- Be willing to be trained to use their experience to support themselves and others seeking greater mental wellness
- Be willing to complete the full course (see course requirements)
Can Family Members or Friends Enroll?
No, they cannot. We recognize that family members and friends are a valuable source of support for people in recovery. Many other organizations provide training that is designed for family and friends. However, our course is specifically for those with direct lived experience of mental health, trauma, and/or substance use conditions.
Can People in Recovery from Substance Use Disorder Conditions (SUDs) Enroll?
Yes, this is common and highly encouraged. Our curriculum focuses broadly on recovery and mental wellness principles and skills that can benefit all who seek greater mental wellness.
Is this a national certification?
No. Currently, there is no national certification for peer specialists that is recognized by the federal government and/or a nationally recognized governing body. Training and state credentialing requirements are determined on a state-by-state basis. Our course is rooted in peer competencies from SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) and the VHA (Veterans Health Administration.) Also, our training is grounded in peer specialist pioneering efforts led by The Appalachian Consulting Group and what came to be informally known as “The Georgia Model in the early 2000s.” These were early pioneers in the world of peer support.
Does This Course Meet My State Credentialing Requirements?
Each state sets its own peer specialist training and credentialing standards. Many states accept the DBSA Peer Specialist Course as part of their training requirements, but receiving DBSA’s course certificate is just the first step in becoming a state-credentialed peer specialist.
NOTE: Individuals must check the applicable requirements of their state’s credentialing body before deciding to participate in the DBSA Peer Course.
Should I Enroll in This Course if I am Striving to be Hired by the VHA (Veterans Health Administration)?
Taking DBSA’s course does not guarantee employment at VHA facilities. If hired by the VHA, more training will likely be part of their apprentice and onboarding programs.
Does completing this course guarantee a paid position?
No. Many individuals have increased their skills and marketability by successfully completing the DBSA Peer Specialist Course. However, completing the course does not guarantee employment or a volunteer position as a peer specialist. Nor does successfully completing the course fulfill all a state’s additional requirements for a state credential. DBSA’s training is part of that overall process. It is up to the student to check with their state’s unique requirements and ensure the DBSA Peer Specialist Course can be used in that specific state.
What is the Cost?
Tuition is $1,500, plus a non-refundable $75 registration fee. If you are accepted, your registration fee will be automatically applied to your tuition. DBSA requires the full tuition payment to be submitted 10 business days before the start of the course.
Why is the Tuition Fee $1,500?
Offering best-in-class service is part of elevating the peer specialist role and workforce. As a nonprofit organization, DBSA carefully manages its budget to fulfill our mission of providing hope, help, support, and education to improve the lives of people with mood disorders.
Though we strive to avoid financial barriers to participating in our programs, we cannot eliminate the resources needed to ensure the course prepares participants for the workforce. DBSA would like to invite you to consider two things if tuition is a barrier:
- Join our advocacy efforts, which will help remove barriers like cost.
- Consider the following fundraising options:
- Research scholarship options
- Research Chapter 31 benefits if you are a Veteran
- Set up a Go FundMe style page to raise money for the course
Does DBSA Offer Scholarships for the Course?
Unfortunately, DBSA is typically not able to offer scholarships for the course. If scholarships are available, links will be on our enrollment page.
Can Veterans Use Chapter 31 Benefits Toward Their Tuition Fees?
Yes. Eligible Veterans can apply to use VA Chapter 31 benefits to cover the expenses of receiving a course completion certificate. We recommend that you contact your local VA facility to learn more.
Does DBSA Accept Payment from 529 College Savings Funds?
No. DBSA is not an accredited academic institution and, therefore, cannot be a recipient of those types of funds.
What Types of Payments Are Accepted?
DBSA accepts check and credit card payments. We can also bill a third party at the participant’s request.
What is the Cancellation Policy?
The $75.00 registration fee is non-refundable.
The $1,425.00 course tuition is:
- 100% refundable if requested up to 30 days before the first day of the DBSA Peer Specialist Course.
- 50% refundable if requested up to two weeks before the first day of the course.
- 25% refundable if requested any time after two weeks before the first day of the course.
Once the course has commenced, there will be no refund.
What’s the Course Schedule?
Please delete the following: The DBSA Peer Specialist Course combines independent learning, remote group learning, and a virtual skill-building workshop. Learn more.
When and Where Does Testing Take Place?
The final test is done online in your own time over the third week.
Is There a Testing Fee?
No. The cost of the final test is included in the course registration fee.
Can I Re-Test if I Don’t Pass?
Yes. Our test is designed to show that students were engaged to the best of their ability during the learning experience. It is not designed to be so difficult that it is a challenge to pass. We will work one-on-one with that individual.
Can I Obtain a Copy of DBSA’s Course Materials?
Only enrolled students receive course materials. Our Student Manual is proprietary material and requires classroom attendance and instructions.
Can DBSA Staff Review my Situation and Decide if I Should Apply?
No. Unfortunately, DBSA staff cannot speak about your unique situation. We highly encourage you to review these FAQs as much as needed to help you make your final enrollment decision.
How do I enroll in the course?
Visit our enrollment page to complete the online application form by the deadline. Enrollment is limited. Please note that applying does not guarantee acceptance.
