Frequently asked questions
how do i become a peer or family support specialist?
To be employed as a Peer or Family Support Specialist in Arizona, individuals must complete an approved training program and pass a competency exam to become “credentialed”. We offer advanced training once you are already credentialed as a peer or family support specialist. There are amazing organizations already providing the credentialing training throughout the state, we encourage you to find a training that best fits your needs with their schedule, course topics, and additional training offerings. AHCCCS Office of Individual and Family Affairs (OIFA) provides and overview of the process and training agencies in this one page document.
How often do you have classes?
We develop and roll out new classes all year long. Classes are currently being offered online in a virtual format to meet the workforce needs of flexibly and reduce statewide travel. In person courses are based on request. We offer typically 2-5 courses a month on a rotating basis. You can check out the course calendar, here.
how do i enroll in a class?
All class registration can be accessed through our course calendar, here. We utilize ZOOM registrations and eventbrite. We encourage our students to ensure to add the training to their calendar. We send an email 24-48 hours before the course with the link and student workbook.
Can anyone take these classes?
Most Peer & Family Career Academy courses are designed exclusively for credentialed Parent/Family Support Providers and/or Peer/Recovery Support Specialists. Coursework is designed to build upon basic knowledge obtained during your credentialing program, offering advanced topics and opportunities to develop expertise in specialized areas. We promote the development of learning communities amongst our students, so that you can continue to reflect, dialogue, and grow in your professional practice together. Many of our courses are also open to supervisors of Parent/Family Support Providers and/or Peer/Recovery Support Specialists.
Who creates your classes?
Peer & Family Career Academy classes tap into the knowledge of top national and local subject-matter-experts. Our Curriculum Review Committee is made up of a diverse group of individuals and leaders who are actively delivering parent/family support and peer support and building new opportunities for the peer workforce. We are a learning organization that listens to our stakeholders and responds with content that meets your needs. Have an idea about how we can improve a class or a new topic you think would be beneficial? Don’t hesitate to reach out and let us know. You can contact us at hello@azpfca.org
what do the classes cost?
Classes are currently being offered at no cost to the participant or their organization, thanks to the generous support of AHCCCS, Banner University Health Plans, Arizona Complete Care, Mercy Care, and Molina Complete Complete Care. We are working hard to ensure that scholarships are readily and widely available and that individuals interested in professional development are able to participate in courses, regardless of ability to pay.
How do I become a trainer for the PFCA?
PFCA Trainers must be credentialed Parent/Family Support Providers or Peer/Recovery Support Specialists, familiar with the healthcare and social service delivery systems, and well-respected members of our community. Trainers must go through the class as a regular student, and then spend a trainer orientation, followed by a train the trainer session of the course content. Trainers must commit to facilitating a minimum of ONE courses in a given year to remain active.
How long are the classes?
PFCA classes range from 2-16 hours, depending on the topic. The classes are high energy and immersive, so we ask participants to commit to undivided attention during class time. Most of our courses are through a virtual format utilizing Zoom. In-person trainings are typically available upon request with a minimum of 15 students.
how can i support the peer & family career academy?
Consider making a tax-deductible, charitable contribution or becoming a Corporate Sponsor. If you are a provider organization offering parent/family support and/or peer support, consider becoming an Organizational Member.
What is an organizational Membership?
Organizational Membership is exclusively designed for healthcare providers that offer peer support and/or parent/family support services for individuals experiencing challenges related to mental health and/or substance use and their families. Organizational Members receive recognition and promotional opportunities while experiencing an array of benefits, ranging from access to professional development activities and training programs at no additional cost to workforce development consultation. Becoming a member helps to support the long-term sustainability of the Peer & Family Career Academy while contributing towards coordinated advocacy for the advancement of peer support and parent/family support.