01/14/2026
If you have thought about working in the mental health field, there is training available that the MHA can help get you started on. In addition, to getting a NYS certified peer credential in one of the two areas listed below, you can even get paid for taking and completing the training:
- Starting the training will get you $250
- Completing the training will get you $500
- Getting a job as a YPA or FPA will get you $1,500
A Youth Peer Advocate (YPA) is someone between 18-30 years old who has personal experience with emotional (mental health) and/or behavioral challenges; A YPA uses their lived experience (disability, mental illness, juvenile justice, substance use disorder, etc.) to support other youth in their resiliency, recovery, and wellness.
A Family Peer Advocate (FPA) is a parent or caregiver who has personal experience supporting a child under 21 years of age with emotional, behavioral, mental health, developmental, or substance-use challenges. They use this experience to guide and support other families, helping them build skills and improve their child's success.
If you are interested in either one of these trainings contact our Executive Director, Dan Colpoys at dcolpoys@mhanc.com
