Advanced Peer Professional Training (APPT)
Become a Certified Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist through our CalMHSA-approved training! Combine your lived experience with the 17 core competencies for Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialists to unlock new job opportunities or switch careers. Join us for free and take the next step in your professional journey with job search assistance.
Program Merger
We are excited to share that PROPEL and APPT are merging into a single, unified program under the name APPT (Advancing Peer Professional Training). Our name and structure have changed, but our programming remains the same! We’ll continue offering Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist training and workforce development support in a more seamless way.
What We Do
We offer a transformative, 80-hour training course that is designed to develop compassionate and skilled Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialists. Our employment specialists work with you 1:1 to prepare you with lifelong skills to navigate the ever-evolving workforce as you seek employment utilizing your new certification. This comprehensive training equips students with the tools and knowledge needed to leverage their lived experience to make a profound impact on the lives of those living with mental health challenges.
What You’ll Learn
The 17 core competencies required to become a Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist.
The power of your personal lived experience and how a peer connection can create wellness and empower others.
Peer support principles and practices that will help you profoundly impact the lives of those facing mental health challenges.
How to build a strong resume to help you find the perfect role for you.
Tips for writing a powerful cover letter to help you stand out amongst applicants.
Interview skills to help you land the role.
Where to find job and volunteer opportunities tailored to your goals.
By the End, You’ll Have
Training certification for completing 80+ Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist Training.
Sponsored certification application and state exam fees. (No cost to students)
1:1 support from a dedicated employment specialist who will provide personalized support in registering for the state certification exam and help you find the best job with your new certification.
Why You’re Set to Succeed
Our instructors are dedicated certified Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialists with a strong passion for education and enhancing the public mental health workforce.
Our employment specialists offer comprehensive support for up to six months, assisting you in your job search and helping you adjust to a new workplace.
97% of APPT graduates express high satisfaction with all aspects of our program.
Our training program is designed to be accessible and fully virtual, engaging students with interactive knowledge checks and real-life scenarios shared by experienced peer support specialists. You won’t spend all day watching recorded videos in our program.
Training and Eligibility Requirements
At least 18 years of age.
Possess a high school diploma or equivalent degree.
Self-identified as having experience with the process of recovery from a mental illness or substance use disorder, either as a consumer of these services or as the parent, caregiver or family member of a consumer.
Willingness to share their experience.
A strong dedication to recovery.
Access to a computer with dedicated internet access.
A webcam (internal or external).
A microphone and speakers (internal or external).
Agreement, in writing, to adhere to the Code of Ethics for Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialists.
APPT – Upcoming 2025 Cohorts
MONDAY - THURSDAY
March 17 – April 14, 5:30 PM- 9:30 PM
April 28 – May 22, 9:00 AM- 1:00 PM
June 2 – June 30, 5:30 PM- 9:30 PM
July 7 – July 31, 9:00 AM- 1:00 PM
August 18 – September 15, 5:30 PM- 9:30 PM
September 22 – October 16, 9:00 AM- 1:00 PM
October 27 – November 24, 5:30 PM- 9:30 PM
Program Roadmap
Apply Today
For a peer to enroll in the Medi-Cal Peer Support Specialist Training (MCPSST) offered by APPT, they must complete the APPT MCPSST program application and meet all the program eligibility requirements. All applicants must complete a pre-screening with one of our employment specialists to determine eligibility.
Submission of this application does not guarantee acceptance into APPT.
