Process for Applying for a Specialty Track Designation

The New York Peer Specialist Certification Board (NYPSCB) offers the New York Certified Peer Specialist (NYCPS) the opportunity to specialize in areas critical to supporting diverse populations through peer services. Earning a Specialty Track designation signifies a focused expertise in a specific area, enhancing the peer’s ability to provide targeted support. Below is a detailed guide on how to apply for a Specialty Track designation through the NYPSCB. Currently, all Specialty Tracks are offered through the Academy of Peer Services. Specialty Track courses do not count toward CECs.

Click here for a visual representation of this process.

1. SELECT YOUR SPECIALTY TRACK.
   1. Explore Specialty Tracks offered by APS.
      1. Review the list of recognized Specialty Tracks, including Crisis (C), Health and Wellness (HW), Justice Involved (JI), Older Adults (OA), and Supervision (S).
   2. Understand Track Requirements.
      1. Each track has its own set of modules that must be completed. Familiarize yourself with the requirements for your chosen track.
2. COMPLETE SPECIALTY TRACK MODULES.
   1. Enroll in APS Courses associated with your selected specialty track.
3. PREPARE YOUR APPLICATION.
   1. After successfully completing the specialty track, download a copy of your APS transcript.
   2. Fill Out the Specialty Track Application.
4. SUBMIT YOUR APPLICATION.
   1. Upload Your APS Transcript.
   2. Submit your application once everything is complete.
5. APPLICATION REVIEW.
   1. Initial Review by Certification Board Staff: Your application and transcript will be reviewed by NYPSCB staff to verify that you meet all the requirements for the specialty track designation.
   2. Secondary Review by Certification Director.
   3. Final Review and Decision by the NYPSCB Board of Directors.
   4. Notification of Review Outcome.
      1. Your application can be denied at any point during the review process (Steps outlined in Sections 5.1, 5.2 and 5.3). If your application is denied, you will receive an automatic notification from the database.
6. RECEIVE YOUR SPECIALTY TRACK DESIGNATION.
   1. Issuance of New Certificate: If your application is approved,
   2. If your application is approved, you will receive an automatic notification from the database. That email will contain a certificate that reflects your specialty track designation(s). Additionally, a notation indicating your designation(s) will be made in the public search verification tool.

CONCLUSION.

Earning a Specialty Track designation through the NYPSCB is a significant professional milestone that highlights your commitment to providing specialized peer support. By following these steps and successfully completing the APS modules for your chosen track, you can enhance your credentials and better serve the needs of your community. If you have any questions or require assistance during the application process, reach out to the NYPSCB or APS for support.