PAPSRS congratulates the almost 700 individuals, who have completed training as Certified Peer Specialists. The PAPSRS Board of Directors wishes to invite and encourage these new and potential practitioners to become members of PAPSRS. The Board has unanimously agreed to subsidize first year membership dues.

Psychiatric Rehabilitation services have a tradition of peer support, and PAPSRS has participated in, and strongly supports the state’s efforts to provide initial training and to encourage employment of Peer Specialists. In addition, PAPSRS recognizes that these new workers will want and need the opportunity for continued training, skills and certification to continue their career development. We believe that membership in PAPSRS, and our national affiliate USPRA (United States Psychiatric Rehabilitation Association) will afford CPS’s this opportunity through discounted conference attendance, training, publications and preparation for certification as CPRP (Certified Psychiatric Rehabilitation Practitioner). Members also receive important public policy alerts and have access to networking with colleagues and potential employers.

If a CPS is not yet employed, they are eligible to be an Associate Member of PAPSRS/USPRA, the usual annual membership dues for an Associate Member is $30, HOWEVER, we will pay the first year dues for an Associate member.

If a CPS is employed, but their employer is not an Organizational member of PAPSRS/USPRA, the CPS is eligible to apply as an Individual Member, which would usually be $90 per year. HOWEVER, if a CPS wishes to join as an Individual Member, PAPSRS will pay half of your first year’s dues. You will pay $45, and PAPSRS will match your $45.

Here is what a CPS needs to do:
Get a USPRA/PAPSRS Membership Application form:
- print it from www.USPRA.org ………..or
- email PAPSRS at papsrs@comcast.net…or
- call PAPSRS at 1-888-490-0404
Complete the Membership Application and send it to PAPSRS :
- Mail your Application to: PAPSRS, P.O. Box 8071, Philadelphia, PA 19101
- In order to be eligible for financial help from PAPSRS, do not complete your application on-line, or send it directly to USPRA
- If you are applying for an Individual Membership, your application must include your payment of $45.

PAPSRS will process your application promptly and you will receive notification of your membership in BOTH your state association (PAPSRS) and your national association (USPRA).

We think PAPSRS is a natural fit for Certified Peer Specialists and can provide excellent opportunities for future professional growth.