1. Peer Support Worker (Peer Recovery Supporter) – Ohio
State Certification Requirements
In Ohio, most peer support worker roles require certification as a Certified Peer Recovery Supporter (CPRS) through the OhioMHAS eLicense system. (dbh.ohio.gov)
Basic Qualifications
-Direct lived experience with substance use and/or mental health recovery. thrivepeersupport.com
-High school diploma or GED (required). adamhscc.org
-Minimum age: 18 years. Ohio Laws
-Pass background checks (BCI & FBI), with some disqualifying offenses restricting certification. Ohio Laws
Training & Exam Requirements
Complete required 16 hours of online e-Based Academy courses (e.g., ethics, trauma-informed care, boundaries). adamhscc.org
Complete a 40-hour department-approved PRS training (or substitute three years of verifiable experience). Ohio Laws
Pass the Ohio Peer Supporter exam with a qualifying score.( dbh.ohio.gov)
Other Expectations
-Attest to reading and understanding the code of ethics at initial certification and at renewal. Ohio Laws
-Renewal every two years with continuing education requirements. Ohio Laws
-Common Job-Level Skills Employers Seek
-Empathy/motivational communication
-Experience working with individuals in recovery
-Ability to work collaboratively with clinical teams
-Documentation and organizational skills
2. Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant (CDCA) – Ohio
State Certification (OCDP Board)
The CDCA credential is administered by the Ohio Chemical Dependency Professionals (OCDP) Board and qualifies individuals to work in substance use treatment settings under supervision.
Basic Eligibility:
-18 years of age or older. ocdp.ohio.gov
-High school diploma or GED. ocdp.ohio.gov
-Must apply through the OCDP Board
Education & Training Requirements
-Complete at least 40 hours of board-approved education in chemical dependency content areas (the CDCA Preliminary pathway). ocdp.ohio.gov
-Hold the CDCA Preliminary (PRE) credential for a required period (often 10 months) before progressing to full CDCA. Cincinnati State
Coursework is typically available through colleges or training programs (e.g., courses in cultural competence, assessment, treatment planning).
Work Conditions
CDCA professionals commonly provide assessment support, case management, crisis intervention, and group/individual counseling assistance under the supervision of higher-level licensed professionals (LCDC II/III or LICDC).
Background checks and adherence to professional standards are typically required.
Typical Employer Preferences include:
-Experience in behavioral health or addiction services
-Strong communication and crisis-response skills
-Commitment to ethical practice (may require additional training or supervision documentation)
3. Peer Support Supervisor – Ohio
Supervision in Ohio’s Peer Support System
Ohio MHAS does not issue a separate “state certification” specifically for peer support supervisors, but the Ohio Administrative Code outlines what qualifies someone to supervise certified peer supporters.
Minimum State-Level Supervisor Qualifications
To qualify as a peer support supervisor under OhioMHAS will:
-Have experience delivering peer services in behavioral health for a cumulative period (e.g., 2 years). Ohio Laws
-Complete 16 hours of OhioMHAS online peer-support learning (as required for CPRS). Ohio Laws
-Complete an additional 4-hour supervisory training designated by the department. Ohio Laws
-Some supervisors can also be licensed clinicians (e.g., LICDC, social worker, counselor) who complete the peer supervisor training
Employer/Supervisor Role Expectations
Without an extra state credential, organizations typically expect peer support supervisors to:
-Provide regular direct supervision, mentorship, and performance feedback
-Understand recovery-oriented practice principles and lived experience integration
-Ensure compliance with documentation, ethics, and quality standards
-Coordinate peer support services with clinical teams and organizational policies
-Support ongoing professional development for peer support staff dbh.ohio.gov
-Additional Supervisor-Level Skills
-Strong leadership and communication skills
-Knowledge of Medicaid/service billing requirements (for peer support services)
-Ability to foster professional growth and maintain supportive workplace culture
About Us
Sum Point Recovery is a recovery-centered organization dedicated to empowering individuals affected by substance use and addiction. We believe recovery is possible for everyone — and that connection, hope, and lived experience are the foundation of healing.