Peer Recovery Support Specialist (PRSS) Internship Program
Peer Recovery Support Specialist Training Program
The PRSS Training Program is focused on recovery coaching/mentoring as part of a Recovery-Oriented System of Care (ROSC) for individuals and families dealing with alcohol and/or substance abuse. The Peer Recovery Support Specialist Training Program meets the Illinois foundational knowledge requirements for certification, and is open to all Illinois residents.
About the Peer Recovery Support Specialist Internship Program
The PRSS Internship Program is an 300-hour supervised practical experience at a licensed substance treatment facility.
The goal of the internship:
- Provide selected participants with supervision in developing and practicing skills and concepts introduced in the Peer Recovery Support Specialist Training Program by working with clients who are entering into the recovery process.
For more information about the 300-clock hour internship program, please contact the College of Health and Human Services at Governors State University.
Completion of the Peer Recovery Support Specialist Training Program and Internship Program
After completing the GSU Peer Recovery Support Specialist Training Program and the GSU Internship Program you can complete the certification for the Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) Certification or the Certified Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS) with the State of Illinois through the Illinois Certification Board (ICB, aka IAODAPCA). Another option you can consider is the National Association of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors' (NAADAC) National Certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist (NCPRSS).
Both organizations have instructional pages dedicated to securing these certifications.
Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS)
and Certified Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS) Certification
A CPRS certification or a CRSS certification is for individuals who share the experience of recovering from a substance use or mental health disorder, either directly or as family members or significant others. It is a national credential that has reciprocity between states.
The ICB's site page contains the applications, a study guide, an other documents to walk you through the process. The initial application is a brief sketch of the professional’s qualifications that is meant to be an assessment for review purposes. The manual is a recording and compilation of documents demonstrating competency in the knowledge and skills specifically related to the functions of a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS). This process includes validation from employers, supervisors, and trainers. An approved application means an applicant is eligible to sit for the CPRS or a CRSS examination.
National Certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist (NCPRSS) Certification
On the NAADAC site page, you will find information about the National Certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist NCPRSS. The information includes eligibility requirements, application requirements, and fees. You will find a link to the application on the bottom of the page.