A Peer Wellness Specialist (PWS) is an individual who has lived experience with a psychiatric condition(s) plus intensive training, who works as part of a person-driven, health home team, integrating behavioral health and primary care to assist and advocate for individuals in achieving well-being. A PWS is an individual who meets qualification criteria adopted by the authority under ORS 414.665 and who, through community outreach, is responsible for (a) assessing mental health and substance use disorder service and support needs of a member of a coordinated care organization, (b) assisting members with access to available services and resources, (c) addressing barriers to services and providing education and information about available resources for individuals with mental health or substance use disorders in order to reduce stigma and discrimination toward consumers of mental health and substance use disorder services, (d)and assisting members in creating and maintaining recovery, health and wellness.
Peer Wellness Specialist Training Requirements for Certification
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Complete an
approved training program;
or
- Provide documentation that you have worked or volunteered as a traditional health worker for at least 3000 hours in Oregon in the past five years;
or
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If you have completed some or all of the certification training requirements, you may be able to count previously - completed training toward certification
- Peer Wellness Specialist are required to complete THW Oral Health for Peer Support and Peer Wellness Training Program, in addition to your approved training program curricula.
Application
Once you are certified with the Oregon Health Authority, we will add you to our state registry. The registry is a reliable, trusted source for finding a traditional health worker in Oregon.
Additional Resources for PHW
Do you have a Civil Rights Complaint or concern regarding THW-PWS services?
For additional Information about the THW program, please contact us at: Telephone: 971-673-3353
Fax: 971-673-1128
Email:
thw.program@odhsoha.oregon.gov