Step Into a Rewarding Career with MHA’s Peer Internship Program!

Ready to turn your lived experience into a meaningful career?
MHA is now accepting applications for our Peer Internship Program, designed to train and mentor the next generation of Certified Peer Recovery Specialists.

About the Program

The Peer Internship Program is dedicated to supporting both your personal growth and professional development. Step into a role that combines hands-on experience, professional training, and mentorship. As a Peer Intern, you’ll:

Gain 500 hours of practical experience with a host agency
Participate in biweekly training sessions (in-person or via Zoom) covering key topics like documentation, confidentiality, ethics and boundaries, self-care, and more
Receive a monthly stipend
Get guidance and training for Peer Certification and assistance applying for the certification exam
Work under strengths-based, recovery-oriented supervision
Access self-care support and career planning resources

Interns work full-time (35–40 hours per week) with their host agency, gaining the hands-on experience necessary to qualify for certification as a Peer Recovery Specialist.

Who Can Apply?

We strive for a diverse and inclusive cohort. The program is open to anyone who meets the minimum requirements, regardless of race, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, religion, age, or disability.

Minimum Requirements:

Personal lived experience with mental health and/or substance use disorder
Successfully in recovery for at least 1 year
18 years or older
U.S. citizen or permanent resident
High School Diploma or GED
Basic computer literacy
Previous peer support experience is NOT required

Note: This is a competitive program. Applying does not guarantee acceptance.

How the Selection Process Works

Submit your application
Submit a resume
Submit a personal statement
Initial screening with the Manager of the Peer Internship Program
Panel interview with MHA staff and host agency representatives

If selected: background check and drug screening are required.

Transform your lived experience into a career

that helps others and strengthens communities.

Peer Recovery Specialist Internship Application