12VAC35-250-30: Qualifications

A. Any person seeking to be a peer recovery specialist under this chapter shall:

1. Have a high school diploma or equivalent.

2. Sign and abide by the Virginia Peer Recovery Specialist Code of Ethics, Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services, effective April 4, 2017.

3. Complete the DBHDS peer recovery specialist training.

4. Show current certification in good standing by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or one of the following certifying bodies:

a. National Association for Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC);

b. A member board of the International Certification and Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC); or

c. Any other certifying body approved by DBHDS.

B. Individuals certified through the Virginia member board of the IC&RC between April 16, 2015, through December 31, 2016, shall be exempt from completing the DBHDS peer recovery specialist training.