Peer Certifcation

Peers Certification

DBHDS-Approved 72-Hour Peer Recovery Specialist Training

The 72-Hour Peer Recovery Specialist (PRS) Training is the foundational course
required by the Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental
Services (DBHDS) to become a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (PRS). It was
created from years of collaboration between people with lived experience,
behavioral health professionals, and peer support leaders. The result is a
unified, Virginia-specific curriculum that prepares participants to offer
effective, ethical, and recovery-oriented peer support in diverse settings.

What You’ll Learn:

• Core Competencies developed by DBHDS and shaped by national and Virginia-based best practices.
• Trauma-Informed, Recovery-Focused Principles that apply to both mental health and substance use recovery.
• Practical Skills in communication, engagement, and crisis intervention.
• Ethics & Boundaries for professional peer support roles.
• Cultural Sensitivity & Inclusion in all aspects of support.
• Navigating Systems & Resources within the Virginia behavioral health framework.
• Wellness & Resilience Strategies for yourself and those you serve.

Why This Training Matters:

• Recognized statewide as meeting the DBHDS requirement for PRS certification eligibility.
• Builds a shared foundation of knowledge and skills across the peer workforce.
• Reflects the belief that recovery is possible for everyone and that people with lived experience bring unique, valuable expertise to behavioral health systems.
• Designed to be applicable across populations, including those living with mental health challenges, substance use disorders, co-occurring conditions, and justice involvement.

Training Format:

• 72 hours of instruction
• Interactive presentations, group discussions, and real-world practice
• Led by experienced trainers with lived experience in recovery

Next Steps:

Completing this training fulfills the education requirement to apply for
Virginia Peer Recovery Specialist Certification through the Virginia
Certification Board.

Fast Facts – DBHDS-Approved 72-Hour PRS Training

Delivery: Virtual via Zoom

Schedule Options: 9–12 training days, delivered over 3, 4, or 5 weeks

Tuition: $375.00

Prerequisites:

• Minimum 1 year of demonstrated recovery
• High-speed internet connection
• Laptop, Chromebook, or newer tablet
• Zoom application installed
• Smartphone
• Ability to attend all training sessions

Certification Path: Meets DBHDS education requirement to apply for Virginia PRS Certification

Enrollment: Enroll online at www.vaprs.org

Upcoming Trainings