Certified Peer Recovery Specialist Program

TN_CPRS_Logo_250

If you’ve ever heard the expression “Walk a mile in my shoes,” you know the essence of peer support services. Peer support empowers people living with behavioral health challenges to receive help from someone who’s “been there.” By sharing their experiences, strengths, knowledge, and hope, Tennessee's Certified Peer Recovery Specialists deliver this evidence-based practice in a method that conveys mutual respect and personal responsibility.  Click this link or image at the right to learn more about peer recovery services in Tennessee.

Tennessee’s Certified Peer Recovery Specialist program provides State certification for individuals who provide direct peer-to-peer support services to others who have mental illness, substance abuse, or co-occurring disorders.


A Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) is a person who has lived experience of a mental illness, substance use disorder or co-occurring disorder, who has made the journey from illness to wellness, and who now wishes to help others.

The first step toward becoming a CPRS is to complete the required training. After the Part One application is approved, applicants can be enrolled in the 40-hour training, which covers recovery, communication, values, ethics, motivation, co-occurring disorders, trauma-informed care, and wellness.

After the training, there are a few more steps to complete before you become a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist. Complete Part Two of the application and you are on your way to becoming certified. 

Learn how Certified Peer Recovery Specialists in Tennessee are putting their lived experience and their certification to work to help improve the lives of others.

To renew your certification you must provide at least 25 hours of direct peer to peer recovery services each year and complete ten hours of continuing education trainings. 

All forms for the  TN Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) Program are now available in digital format. Just find the form you need below and click on the link.

Peers currently certified in other states can become certified in Tennessee through the state to state process.

The CPRS Handbook defines the role and the responsibilities of the Certified Peer Recovery Specialist in Tennessee. It has details on how to become certified as well as all of the information you need to understand the program and its policies.

For the past twelve years, Certified Peer Recovery Specialists have gathered together for continuing education, inspiring speakers, awards and more. This year, we are welcoming our fellow Certified Young Adult Peer Support Specialists and Certified Family Support Specialists so we can all join together for the first All Peer Conference! 

For More Information

If you have concerns or need services for yourself, a child, or family member, contact our Helpline:
Phone: 800-560-5767
Email: OCA.TDMHSAS@tn.gov
Hours: Monday – Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (except for state holidays)

If you feel at any time that you are experiencing a mental health crisis, please call the Tennessee Statewide Crisis Line toll-free 24 hours, 7 days a week at 1-855-274-7471.

To learn more about the Certified Peer Recovery Specialist program, please contact:

Michelle Webster
Peer Recovery Coordinator
615-347-3262
CPRS.TDMHSAS@tn.gov