The New England ATTC, in partnership with Rhode Island Department of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities & Hospitals (BHDDH), is hosting an 8-part intensive technical assistance series titled, “Rhode Island Peer Recovery Specialist Mental Health & Substance Use Integrated Training” with subject matter experts Michele Stewart-Copes and Lisa Conlan-Lewis. A range of educational topics are covered including, but not limited to: the role of the peer recovery specialist; best practices for working with persons with mental health and/or substance use; the power of language to promote hurt and healing; the need to recognize and address implicit bias; principles of harm reduction to reduce overdose risk; and how to recognize and apply the stages of change to promote recovery. In addition, participants will practice concrete connection and communication skills such as active listening and principles of motivational interviewing, as well as concrete strategies to integrate a trauma-informed approach into assessment and provision of support. By the end of the intensive TA, attendees will be prepared to seek state certification as a peer recovery specialist. [This is a private, targeted technical assistance (TA) event. If you are interested in similar TA, please contact [email protected]]