Peer Recovery Specialist 72/hr. Training

The 72-hour Peer Recovery Specialist (PRS) training is a foundational certification program designed to prepare individuals—especially those with lived experience in recovery from mental health conditions or substance use disorders—to support others on their recovery journeys.

🔹 What It Is:

The 72-hour training is typically the core educational requirement to become a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) in many states, including Virginia. The training equips participants with the knowledge, skills, and ethical framework needed to work in various behavioral health settings, such as:

• Substance use recovery programs
• Mental health facilities
• Hospitals
• Jails and reentry programs
• Community outreach and support services

🔹 What It Covers:

The curriculum often includes these core domains:

1. Foundations of Peer Support
2. Recovery Principles and Pathways
3. Communication and Listening Skills
4. Cultural Competency and Trauma-Informed Care
5. Ethics and Boundaries
6. Documentation and Confidentiality (HIPAA)
7. Crisis Management and Suicide Prevention
8. Self-Care and Supervision

🔹 Who It’s For:

• Individuals in stable recovery (typically at least 1 year of sustained recovery)
• People passionate about using their lived experience to help others
• Those interested in working in the behavioral health or recovery services field

🔹 After Training – What’s Next?

After completing the 72-hour training, most states require:

1. Supervised experience hours (e.g., 500 hours in VA)
2. Passing a certification exam
3. Background check
4. Ongoing continuing education

🔹 Certification Example (Virginia):

In Virginia, the DBHDS recognizes the 72-hour PRS training as a requirement for becoming a Registered Peer Recovery Specialist (RPRS). Approved trainers must be certified by DBHDS, and candidates must also complete 500 hours of supervised work and 25 hours of direct supervision.