Peer Support training courses to be offered online

Published on Jun 17, 2024

By Megan Smedley

Workforce Solutions at Maysville Community & Technical College is excited to offer a 30-hour Adult Peer Support Specialist course to meet an ever-growing need in our region.

The course is entirely online and is designed for individuals with active lifestyles and working adults. The course is offered over two weekends: July 13-14 and July 20-21.

These programs prepare individuals for entry-level positions in agencies and institutions that provide social, community, educational, and mental health services. Upon completion of the program, the graduate is prepared to seek employment in various areas, which may include childcare facilities, mental health settings, chemical dependency settings, hospitals, and other social service agencies.

"MCTC is proud to be able to join in the collaborative effort to empower and certify anyone affected by mental or behavioral health issues, by providing the Adult Peer Support Specialist training,” said De’Sarae Perry, Director of Workforce Solutions. “As we work with the Council on Postsecondary Education and the Department of Behavioral Health, Developmental, and Intellectual Disabilities within the KY Cabinet for Health and Family Services, we are committed to train as many people as possible who are working toward reentering the workforce and using their lived experiences to make a difference in our communities.”

To become qualified, a Kentucky Peer Specialist completes 30 hours of training and passes both a written and oral test.

This training transitions into a college certificate, diploma, or degree program at MCTC, for those interested in continuing their education beyond the course. The cost is $200 per participant, but tuition assistance may be available to those who qualify.

“The Adult Peer Support Specialist is just a piece of the puzzle, as we have a pathway of classes within the Human Services program that students can continue to navigate for a degree with stackable credentials,” Perry said. “And this could all be at no cost. If any resource partners want to refer potential students to us or anyone personally is interested, please reach out as we would love to have you be a part of this opportunity."

To enroll in the course, interested participants must be 18 years of age or older, have a current or past diagnosis of a mental health, substance use, or co-occurring mental health and substance use disorder, have received or be receiving treatment, have a minimum educational requirement of a high school diploma or GED, and demonstrate a pattern of recovery from a mental health, substance use, or co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders.

For more information or to register, email Keri Teegarden.