Peer credentials

Pathway to FPA Provisional
Credential (FPA-P)

3

Special Announcement!
Revised Criteria for the Family Peer Advocate Provisional Credential (FPA-P)

The first phase of this restructuring is designed to support more efficient processing of applicants employed in these programs. Provisional (temporary) Credential applications will only be processed from candidates currently employed in NYSOMH licensed, designated or funded programs providing Medicaid reimbursable services of family peer support or other state approved programs moving forward. The current application processing system will be closed for upgrades to align with these new criteria and will reopen on February 9, 2026. At that time, applications can be submitted meeting the new requirements and using updated application forms. Future updates may include additional information for verification of qualifications and readiness as a professionally credentialed peer worker. 

Important: Additional detailed instructions will be emailed directly to all applicants in the next couple of weeks for those who currently have pending applications in our system. 

FAMILY PEER ADVOCATE pROVISIONAL CREDENTIAL (fpa-p)

Thank you for your interest in joining “A Workforce That Makes a Difference!” Family Peer Advocates have lived experience as the parent (biological, foster, adoptive) or primary caregiver of a child/young person with significant social, emotional, developmental, medical, substance use and/or behavioral needs. FPAs provide a service called Family Peer Support.

An individual seeking a Family Peer Advocate Credential will typically start with a Provisional (temporary) Credential. Follow the “steps” below to get started!

Step 1: Complete Level 1 Online Training

What Is The Parent Empowerment Program (PEP)?

The Parent Empowerment Program (PEP) is a training program for Family Peer Advocates (FPAs). PEP training introduces new FPAs to their role and to the skills they will need to effectively engage and empower parents.

PEP Training includes self-paced online modules, a multi-day, “live” training on Zoom, and a series of coaching phone calls.   Successful completion of the Parent Empowerment Program (PEP) Training is required for anyone seeking a Family Peer Advocate Credential in New York State.

How Do I Access Level 1 Online Training?

When you click the button below you will be redirected to the Self-Learning Center hosted by our partners at the NYU McSilver Training and Technical Assistance Centers. This is where you will enroll in Level 1 Online Training using the unique Group Key. 

  • PLEASE REVIEW the Access Instructions before logging into the Self-Learning Center.
  • Group Key: fpatraining
Self-Learning Center

Step 2: Apply for the Provisional Credential

Frequently Asked Questions:
FPA Credential Information for Applicants FAQ

How to Apply:
FPA Provisional Credential Application and Instructions

FPA-P Extension

Your Provisional (temporary) Credential is valid for 18 months. It is expected that you complete all credential training and work experience providing FPSS and apply for a Professional Credential during this time period. In exceptional cases, a one-time, 12-month extension may be granted at FTNYS discretion. Contact us at FPACredential@ftnys.org to inquire.

Ready for Step 3?

Click here to visit the Pathway to FPA Professional Credential.

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