NYCPS Letter of Reference Requirements

As part of the application process for becoming a New York Certified Peer Specialist (NYCPS), applicants are required to have three people submit letters of reference in support of their candidacy. Individuals eligible to become NYCPS are those in recovery from a mental health condition, mood disorder, or major life disruption, who are willing to self-disclose their mental health recovery journey. Below are detailed guidelines for what each letter of reference should include to support your application:

KEY COMPONENTS OF REFERENCE LETTERS.

Each letter of reference must address the following criteria:

1. Nature of Relationship: Clearly describe the nature of your relationship with the applicant.
2. Duration of Relationship: State how long you have known the applicant.
3. Applicant’s Strengths: Provide specific details and descriptions of the strengths, skills, and abilities of the applicant that will contribute to their effectiveness as a peer specialist.
4. Use of Personal Lived-Experience: Explain how the applicant has used their own personal lived-experience in mental health recovery to support others.
5. Additional Considerations: Include any other information that you believe the NYPSCB should consider when reviewing the application.

WHO CAN WRITE THE LETTERS?

Acceptable references can come from:

• Supervisors;
• Friends;
• Peers and colleagues.

These individuals should be able to speak to the applicant’s qualifications and experiences as outlined above.

RESTRICTIONS ON LETTERS.

Please note that letters will not be accepted from:

• Past or present clinical, medical, case management or treatment providers;
• Family members.

THE PROCESS.

You will enter the names and email addresses of three people who will write reference letters on your behalf. The NYPSCB database will then send each of those individuals an email with a link to complete and upload their letter. Your application will not be reviewed until all of your reference letters are received.

You can also have the authors of the letters email signed copies of their letters in pdf format to info@nypscb.org or mail them to 204 Second Street, Albany NY 12210.

NEED ASSISTANCE?

If you have any questions regarding the letter criteria or the submission process, please do not hesitate to contact the NYPSCB office at info@nypscb.org for assistance. Our team is here to support you through your application process to ensure you can submit your application with confidence.

By adhering to these guidelines, you help us better understand the unique qualifications and experiences that make you or your colleague a suitable candidate for the NYCPS certification. We look forward to reviewing your application.