CPRS-V

Beginning in 2025, TDMHSAS established optional advanced endorsements on the peer recovery specialist certification in specialized areas. These endorsements recognize both advanced training and specialized lived experience of Certified Peer Recovery Specialists and will serve to further break down stigma and increase the recovery potential of Tennesseans throughout our state.

CPRS-V is an advanced endorsement for Certified Peer Recovery Specialists who have served in the United States Armed Forces. It is implemented through a partnership between the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services and the Tennessee Department of Veterans Services.

This endorsement recognizes the unique combination of recovery experience, peer-support training, and military service held by individuals who support veterans and others with military-related experiences.

Eligibility

• Current certification as CPRS.  Verify your CPRS is current at this link.
• Lived experience of service in the U.S. Armed Forces
• No wait time required between trainings
• No background checks required*

*Please note that the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services does not conduct criminal background checks when issuing peer recovery specialist certifications. Accordingly, the department neither forms nor offers any opinion regarding any information contained therein. Any person or entity with interest in that information should conduct a criminal background check themselves to determine if any particular Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) is an appropriate person to conduct the CPRS services sought.

Continuing Education

• CPRS requires 20 hours of continuing education every two-year certification period, including 2 hours in ethics.
• Of those 20 hours, 5 must be specific to veteran-related topics for CPRS-V.

Ready to apply? Log into your account in CADRE, and complete your application there.

CPRS-V Stories

In the videos below, some of the first Tennesseans to earn their CPRS-V share what makes the program unique, what they learned, and why they are excited to spread this program far and wide.