The Certified Recovery Peer Specialist (CRPS) Apprenticeship Program is at the heart of our mission, connecting young people to behavioral health career pathways while addressing critical workforce needs. As a dynamic extension of Nate Howard Speaks, Movement BE embodies our commitment to transforming lives through innovation, compassion, and action.

What is a Certified Recovery Peer Specialist (CRPS)?

A Certified Recovery Peer Specialist (CRPS) is a professional who uses their personal recovery journey to help others overcome mental health and substance use challenges. CRPS professionals inspire hope, provide critical support, and model resilience, making a lasting impact on their communities.

Key Characteristics of a CRPS:

  • Lived Experience: Identifies as someone in recovery, ready to share their story to inspire others.

  • Peer Advocacy: Offers emotional and practical support to individuals navigating recovery.

  • Professional Training: Completes state-approved training and gains supervised experience to achieve certification.

  • Community Impact: Acts as a role model and change agent for those facing similar challenges.

We drive the vision and leadership behind www.movmentbe.com, inspiring organizations, workforce boards, and communities to embrace bold, innovative solutions. Through motivational speaking, workshops, and programs like the CRPS Apprenticeship, Nate Howard Speaks connects the power of storytelling to real-world impact.

Movement BE, as the operational arm, delivers transformative programs that:

  • Train youth in peer support principles and emotional intelligence.

  • Provide certifications like CRPS to foster sustainable careers.

  • Create community leaders who amplify their voices and those of others.

For Workforce Boards: Why Partner with Us?

1. Workforce Development and WIOA Alignment

  • Train youth to become Certified Recovery Peer Specialists, preparing them for high-demand roles in behavioral health.

  • Equip participants with durable skills like communication, emotional intelligence, and leadership.

2. Sustainable Funding Model

  • Leverage Medicaid reimbursements to fund apprenticeship wages.

  • Access workforce board grants and community partnerships for program support.

3. Community Impact

  • Graduates address behavioral health challenges in underserved areas, strengthening community health and resilience.

  • Amplify youth voices and stories to inspire change and connection.

Program Overview

Phase 1: Pre-Apprenticeship Training

  • Participants complete 40 hours of foundational training in peer support, storytelling, and trauma-informed care.

  • Learn essential skills like active listening and conflict resolution.

Phase 2: Apprenticeship (500 Hours)

  • Gain hands-on experience delivering one-on-one peer support and group facilitation.

  • Work under supervision, logging Medicaid-billable services while earning wages.

Phase 3: Leadership and Career Advancement

  • Graduates become leaders, mentors, or behavioral health professionals.

  • Build sustainable careers with certifications and workforce opportunities.