Frequently Asked Questions About the Certified Peer Specialist Training Program

CNSJ’s Community Health Worker (CHW) and Certified Peer Specialist (CPS) training program is designed for young adults ages 18–24 with lived experience related to trauma, community violence, or systemic inequities.

Ideal participants:

• Have self-awareness in their healing journey
• Understand the impact of trauma and violence
• Demonstrate empathy, patience, and emotional maturity
• Are ready for intensive, meaningful work
• Are open to feedback and committed to growth

You do not need to be fully healed, but you should be in a stable place to support others.

This program may not be a good fit for individuals who:

• Have not begun addressing their own trauma
• Are not prepared for emotionally intensive material
• Struggle with empathy or professional boundaries
• Cannot commit to a structured, rigorous schedule

Participants must:

• Be a Philadelphia resident
• Be 18–24 years old
• Have a high school diploma

These are required for state certification. CNSJ can provide referrals for those who do not meet eligibility.

The program runs full-time for nine weeks, Monday through Friday.

The attendance requirements are:

• 80% attendance required for CHW certification
• No more than two full days missed for CPS certification

No. The program and certification are free.

The first step to apply is the pre-screen application, which opens twice each year: first in the winter for our Spring Training Academy, and second in the summer for our Fall Training Academy.

Check our Instagram page for updates on the next application window or email HCL_Training@drexel.edu for information.

The pre-screen application is an online survey. You will be asked to submit the application as well as a resume. If you do not have a resume you may type your work history into the survey

If you have any questions or need assistance completing the pre-screen application, please contact HCL_Training@drexel.edu.

The process includes:

• A structured interview focused on lived experience
• Reference checks
• Onboarding documentation

CNSJ looks for empathy, self-awareness, professionalism, and openness to feedback.

Due to high demand, the process may take approximately 4 to 6 weeks.

Yes, with advance communication. Missed interviews without notice may not be rescheduled.

The curriculum includes:

• HIPAA and medical privacy
• Healthcare systems and medical terminology
• Mandated reporting
• Suicide awareness and prevention
• Trauma-informed care
• Identity, gender, and culturally responsive care
• Self-care and compassion fatigue
• Recovery support
• Career readiness (resumes, interviews, job applications)

Participants receive:

• Weekly one-on-one check-ins
• Case management support
• Resource referrals (housing, food, childcare, etc.)
• Peer support within their cohort

Participants should be prepared for:

• Strict attendance requirements
• Emotionally heavy material
• Staying engaged during virtual sessions

Staff provide content advisories and encourage use of grounding strategies when needed.

Graduates may participate in a nine-week experiential learning internship with a CNSJ partner organization. Opportunities may include community engagement, client support exposure, and professional skill-building. Watch the videos below to get an idea of what the internship might look like.

After completion, graduates may:

• Enter the behavioral or community health workforce
• Pursue higher education
• Continue professional development within CNSJ’s network

Yes. CNSJ provides follow-up case management and check-ins for up to one year after graduation. Many alumni remain connected and continue to engage with CNSJ.