Specifications include, but are not limited to: STATE provides leadership for the planning, development, and oversight of the state's behavioral health system. STATE works with partners within the Department of Health and Human Services and the state behavioral health system to improve access to services, address behavioral health workforce needs, develop policies, and ensure quality services are available for those with behavioral health needs. One of these services is Recovery Talk. When an individual is working towards or maintaining recovery from a behavioral health need, they at times may experience situations when additional support would be beneficial. Due to the rural nature of North Dakota, recovery support may not be readily accessible, when needed. To provide additional recovery supports, a 24-hour non-crisis phone line answered by North Dakota Certified Peer Support Specialists (PSS) has been implemented. A PSS is an individual with the lived experience of recovery from a mental health condition, substance use disorder, or both, and provides support that focuses on advocacy, coaching, and mentoring to others experiencing similar challenges. As a way to increase and professionalize the peer support workforce, North Dakota created a certification process for individuals to become Certified PSS. For more information on how to become a Certified PSS, visit www.hhs.nd.gov/addiction/peer-support/certification.
