Washington § 18.420.010 - Definitions.

The definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter unless the context clearly requires otherwise.

(1) "Approved supervisor" means:

(a) Until July 1, 2028, a behavioral health provider, as defined in RCW 71.24.025 with at least two years of experience working in a behavioral health practice that employs peer support specialists or certified peer counselors as part of treatment teams; or

(b) A certified peer support specialist who has completed:

(i) At least 1,500 hours of work as a fully certified peer support specialist engaged in the practice of peer support services, with at least 500 hours attained through the joint supervision of peers in conjunction with another approved supervisor; and

(ii) The training developed by the health care authority under RCW 71.24.920.

(2) "Certified peer support specialist" means a person certified under this chapter to engage in the practice of peer support services.

(3) "Certified peer support specialist trainee" means an individual working toward the supervised experience and written examination requirements to become a certified peer support specialist under this chapter.

(4) "Department" means the department of health.

(5) "Practice of peer support services" means the provision of interventions by a peer who is either a person in recovery from a mental health condition or substance use disorder, or both, or the parent or legal guardian of a youth who is receiving or has received behavioral health services, to a person with a similar lived experience. The peer provides the interventions through the use of shared experiences to assist the participant in the acquisition and exercise of skills needed to support the participant's recovery. Interventions may include activities that assist participants in accessing or engaging in treatment and in symptom management; promote social connection, recovery, and self-advocacy; provide guidance in the development of natural community supports and basic daily living skills; and support participants in engagement, motivation, and maintenance related to achieving and maintaining health and wellness goals.

(6) "Secretary" means the secretary of health.