We are thrilled to share a momentous achievement within our Axiom Community of Recovery family. Our Executive Director, Mark Martz, recently became a state credentialed Peer Support Specialist (PRSS). This certification reflects Mark's unwavering commitment to utilizing his personal substance use recovery journey to empower and support others on their own path to wellness.
RI International: Leading the Way in Mental Health and Substance Use Crisis Services
Mark successfully completed specialized training through the renowned global organization RI International to achieve this milestone. With a strong presence across the United States and beyond, RI International is a recognized worldwide leader in mental health, substance use crisis service design, and peer-delivered care, making this credential even more significant.
RI International has been at the forefront of revolutionizing mental health and substance use crisis services, emphasizing the vital role of peer support in the recovery process. With a firm commitment to promoting peer-delivered care, RI International's programs have transformed countless lives by offering empathy, understanding, and empowerment through lived experiences.
The Essence of Peer Support
At the heart of peer support lies a deep understanding of shared experiences. It serves as a vital resource, delivered by individuals who have triumphed over similar adversities, fostering a connection that reduces feelings of shame and isolation. This shared connection boosts practical knowledge and sustains the positive efforts of those seeking help, becoming a beacon of hope and guiding individuals toward personal growth, wellness, and recovery.
Axiom Community of Recovery's Commitment
At Axiom Community of Recovery, we take immense pride in supporting and celebrating Mark’s dedication to becoming a credentialed Peer Support Specialist. His accomplishment further strengthens our mission of fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all individuals on their journey to recovery. Our commitment to providing exceptional care and assistance to those seeking recovery remains steadfast from all levels of the organization.
Mark's unwavering dedication to pursuing state recognition as a credentialed Peer Support Specialist through RI International demonstrates his passion for empowering others on their path to recovery. With his lived experience and newfound skills, Mark is better equipped to support individuals facing behavioral health and substance use challenges, offering them strength, inspiration, and hope on their own recovery journeys.
How to Become a Peer Recovery Support Specialist
If you are on your own path of recovery from behavioral health and/or substance use issues and are passionate about assisting others, consider becoming a Peer Recovery Support Specialist. In Arizona, this requires the completion of an approved training program and passing a competency exam.
Numerous training programs are available across the state, each covering essential topics related to behavioral health and substance abuse. Some programs also delve into specialized areas like criminal justice involvement or focus on specific issues such as Opioid Use Disorder (OUD).
AHCCCS (Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System)-recognized training programs are listed on the AHCCCS Peer Support webpage. To begin your journey towards becoming a PRSS, visit their websites or contact them directly for training availability and enrollment information. If you are an AHCCCS member, you can also contact an employment specialist for additional assistance.
About Axiom Community of Recovery
At Axiom Community of Recovery, our mission is to transform the lives of individuals and families struggling with substance use and co-occurring mental health disorders in Arizona. We provide evidence-based peer recovery support services, advocacy and educational opportunities, sober social activities, and affordable, safe recovery housing.