Only you can determine whether you are eligible to pursue the CRSS or CPRS credentials. No documentation of your lived experience is required. Here are a few questions you might ask yourself to determine if one of these credentials is a good fit.
- Am I comfortable with my present and/or past challenges with mental health or co-occurring mental health and substance use challenges being known by my colleagues and the people I serve?
- Am I able to share information about how I am/was able to overcome these challenges? Am I willing to do so?
- Do I feel that my experiences related to dealing with mental health or co-occurring mental health and substance use challenges have value for others going through similar challenges?
- Am I willing to learn how to share my experiences in a way that promotes hope and supports another person in their journey toward recovery?
If you feel you can confidently answer yes to 3 out of 4 of the above, you may want to pursue the CRSS or CPRS. If more than 1 of the above gives you pause, then they may not be the credentials for you.
