Not at this time. NAMI Rappahannock is peer-led and volunteer-based. We hope to offer stipends in future cycles.

Am I guaranteed a certain number of hours?

At minimum, you are guaranteed the opportunity to earn all supervised hours through NAMI Rappahannock. We work to maximize hours across all four domains.

Can I choose my placement?

We match peers with placements that best fit their goals, and work closely with each intern to ensure a strong fit.

How do I apply or learn more?

Visit namirapp.org/prs — our program app works on any device and covers applications, hour logging, and resources.

Peer Recovery Specialist Intern Program

Funded by the Mary Washington
& Stafford Hospital Community Benefit Fund

PLANNING DISTRICT 16 MENTAL HEALTH & RECOVERY

Why Peer Recovery Specialist Training Matters

To promote sustained recovery, hope, and connection through community by expanding peer services throughout Planning District 16. This program selects a qualified group of trained peers to earn Virginia Certification Board hours across all four required domains while building professional, employment-ready skills.

Not sure what a Peer Recovery Specialist is?

Learn about the 72-hour DBHDS-overseen PRS training program and Virginia Certification Board requirements.

Learn more at DBHDS.virginia.gov

PEER RECOVERY SPECIALIST INTERN PROGRAM

A competitive pathway to PRS certification and employment

The NAMI Rappahannock PRS Intern Program is a selective opportunity for a qualified group of individuals who have completed the Virginia 72-hour Peer Recovery Specialist training overseen by DBHDS. Interns work toward certification hours with the Virginia Certification Board while gaining the job-ready skills needed to work in professional, recovery-oriented settings across Planning District 16.

NAMI Rappahannock serves as the regional coordinating hub that connecting trained peers with partner organizations, verifying certification hours, and building a broad ecosystem of recovery-oriented services.

"Peer support was vital to my recovery as a caregiver when I felt alone and had lost hope."

— A member of NAMI Rappahannock

ELLIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR PEERS

Peer Recovery Specialist Intern Program

Completed the Virginia 72-hour PRS training (DBHDS-overseen) with proof of completion
Motivated to pursue PRS certification with the Virginia Certification Board; committed for the current grant cycle
Completed NAMI Rappahannock volunteer onboarding and background check (if applicable)
Agrees to confidentiality, ethical standards, and all program policies

Access NAMI Rappahannock Peer Recovery Specialist Portal

Apply to Intern

Submit your application and proof of 72-hour PRS training.

APPLY NOW

Log Intern Hours

Current interns, submit peer service hours and documentation.

LOG HOURS

Become a Partner

Organizations interested in hosting PRS interns, inquire here.

PARTNER WITH US

NAMI RAPPAHANNOCK • PEER RECOVERY COMMUNITY PARTNERS

Community Partners Supporting Peer Recovery in Planning District 16

Partner organizations across Planning District 16 (PD16) provide meaningful intern placements, verify hours, and offer mentorship to NAMI Rappahannock. More partners coming soon.