OhioMHAS Explores Transition of Peer Certification to Chemical Dependency Board

The Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (OhioMHAS) announced that they are beginning to explore the transition of Ohio’s peer certification and management process from OhioMHAS to an appropriate professional licensing board. The goal of this transition is to elevate the role of this vital profession within the behavioral health workforce. The Ohio Chemical Dependency Professionals Board (OCDPB) has agreed to be a partner in this exploration process. The OCDPB has an established infrastructure and experience managing and administering multiple licenses and endorsements. OhioMHAS does not have statutory authority to license workforce professionals. 

OhioMHAS will engage with a consultant to identify opportunities and challenges. They anticipate the planning process will take place over the next 12-18 months, and will include regular engagement and feedback sessions, a review of any needed legislative and rule changes, and exploration of any fiscal impacts. No changes will be made to the management of peer certification until Fiscal Year 26 (July 2025). 

Once a consultant is on board, OhioMHAS will reach out to stakeholders to begin scheduling discussion sessions. For those who might have questions prior to the launch of stakeholder sessions, please reach out to OhioMHAS’s team at [email protected].