Scope of Practice - DMH Peer Support Specialists

Scope of Practice - DMH Peer Support Specialists A. DMH professional credentials are valid only in Mississippi’s “state mental health system.” DMH Peer Support Specialists may only use their credential title if actively employed in the state mental health system (or in Inactive Status). B. The scope and type of peer support, support services by Provisionally Certified Peer Support Specialists (PCPSSs) and Certified Peer Support Specialists (CPSSs) as well as the principles, methods and procedures of peer support must be in compliance with the Mississippi Department of Mental Health Operational Standards for Mental Health, Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Use Community Service Providers. The standards can be found in Chapter 42.1 and activities 42.2. C. DMH Peer Support Specialists should only practice within the boundaries of their education, training, supervised or other relevant professional experience, and credential(s) held. D. DMH Peer Support Specialist certification does not qualify an individual to provide services outside this scope of practice or in private practice. E. Practicing beyond the scope of practice may lead to sanctions as described in Chapter Twenty -One. F. A person issued a certificate/license by the Mississippi Department of Mental Health may use the title appropriate to his/her category of professional certification/licensure while in the employ of a state mental health system program (or while in Inactive Status). G. Professional identification is directly affected by employment. DMH-credentialed individuals who experience a change in or separation from state mental health system employment are expected to follow the relevant guidelines below.