Peer support services can only be delivered by a Peer and Recovery Support Specialist (PRSS). A PRSS is someone with lived experience of behavioral health and/or substance use recovery who has received specialized training on how to use their experience to help others.

To be employed as a PRSS in Arizona, individuals must complete an AHCCCS-recognized training program and pass a competency exam. There are many training programs across the state, and while all trainings cover behavioral health and substance abuse, some trainings also focus on criminal justice involvement or other specialized topics such as Opioid Use Disorder. Agencies with AHCCCS-recognized training programs are listed below. Visit their websites or contact them for training availability and enrollment requirements. AHCCCS members may contact their provider’s employment specialist or AHCCCS Health Plan for assistance.

AHCCCS-recognized Peer Support Employment Training Programs

Providers seeking review and recognition shall submit a completed application to OIFAAlliance@azahcccs.gov with “Attn: PSETP Application'' in the subject line. Upon receipt of the application, the OIFA Alliance will jointly determine a Lead Contractor to perform program reviews and approvals on behalf of all the Contractors. Once the application review has been completed, the applicant will be notified within 30 days by the Lead Contractor.

The OIFA Alliance seeks to preserve the essence of, and uphold the integrity of, peer support as established in national recognized guidelines. To ensure this objective, Peer Support Employment Training Programs (PSETPs) must:

• Be an AHCCCS registered provider delivering services for at least one year,
• Intend to develop or adopt an AHCCCS recognized PSETP training of the core elements in AMPM Policy 963,
• Utilize trainers who hold a Peer Recovery Support Specialist (PRSS) credential from an AHCCCS recognized PSETP or reciprocal program
• Only train individuals who meet the qualifications in AHCCCS AMPM Policy 963 and have experience of sustained recovery,
• Be knowledgeable of competencies and required qualifications in Nationally Recognized Practice Guidelines, and
• Complete and submit an application to OIFAAlliance@azahcccs.gov.

If you have any questions, please contact OIFAAlliance@azahcccs.gov.

Who to contact

AHCCCS members can contact their AHCCCS health plan or Office of Individual and Family Affairs (OIFA). OIFA partners with members and their supporters to ensure that they are connected to provider supportive services.

AHCCCS Health Plan Contacts