An “assessment-based” certification program is one where the entity that provides the training, also determines whether the individual has met the requirements for certification.

A “professional” peer certification program is one where an entity that did not provide the training, determines whether the individual has met the requirements for certification, usually by administering a test.

For example, think about how a state might license motor vehicle drivers. In an “assessment-based” driver’s license program, drivers would take a driver’s education course and if they passed the course, they would become licensed drivers.

In a “professional” driver’s license program, drivers would take a driver’s education course, and then be required to pass a test administered by an entity not involved in the driver’s education course.

If Vermont were to adopt an “assessment-based” certification program, the entity that provides training for peer support specialists would also determine whether the peer specialists met the requirements to become certified peer support specialists.

If Vermont were to adopt a “professional” certification program, applicants would be required to complete a training course, and to become certified would be required to pass a test administered by an entity that did not provide the training.

Regardless of whether Vermont adopts an “assessment-based” certification program or a “professional” certification program, peer run entities can lead either type of program, including creating the test that applicants would be required to pass to become certified in a “professional” certification program.

Definition of terms is necessary to communicate to the public what is being offered; for determining eligibility for peer support specialist certification; for determining the scope of practice for peer support specialists; and for determining eligibility for Medicaid reimbursement, if applicable.

“Scope of practice” means those activities that peer support specialists are certified to perform or engage in.

Vermont, other states and individuals, and the federal government have defined some of these terms in other contexts. This survey asks whether Vermont should adopt these existing definitions or should create new definitions of these terms.

In commenting about a definition, it would be helpful to know your thoughts about:

(1) What is important to include in the definition

(2) What is important to exclude in the definition

(3) A critique of a current definition (why you believe the definition is appropriate or inappropriate)

Alternative A: People with lived experience of a mental health condition supporting each other to live self-determined lives of their own choosing.

Alternative B: A mutual relationship between individuals with lived experience of mental health challenges that emphasizes a non-judgmental, values-driven approach that promotes multiple perspectives, advocates for human rights and dignity, and focuses on genuine, mutual relationships that enrich the lives of those involved.

Alternative A: Peer support specialists use lived experience to help individuals and their families understand and develop the skills to address mental illness, substance use disorder, and other health conditions. 

Alternative B: Peer support specialists use their lived experience of recovery from mental illness and/or addiction, plus skills learned in formal training, to deliver services in behavioral health settings to promote mind-body recovery and resiliency.

Alternative A: Peer support services include providing recovery, health, and wellness supports; supporting individuals in accessing community-based resources and navigating state and local systems; providing employment supports, including educating individuals regarding services and benefits available to assist in transitioning into and staying in the workforce; and promoting empowerment and a sense of hope through self-advocacy. (Vermont Global Commitment to Health Demonstration Project)