Certified Peer Support for Exploitation (CPSE)
There is an ongoing desire to invite survivors into anti-trafficking work. We all serve better with the benefit of their insights and will likely create a wider invitation for victims to exit exploitation if they are supported by someone who understands their experiences. Yet, over the past 15 years, many agencies have unintentionally caused harm by rushing to push survivors into limited roles without adequate preparation and support. As a result, far too many survivors have relapsed into destructive behaviors and the field has perhaps done more harm than good.
What the Anti-trafficking Movement needs is a coordinated, credentialled pathway that equips survivors to engage in meaningful ways, and ensures they are respected, supported, and compensated for their contributions.
The Certified Peer Support for Exploitation (CPSE) credential is a rigorous preparation for survivors of sex trafficking who have demonstrated stability in their own recovery and expressed a sincere desire to engage in the Anti-trafficking Movement. Through the CPSE requirements, survivors can become equipped to serve others. This approach is modeled after Peer Support Specialists for Addiction.
Courses are taught by seasoned anti-trafficking professionals and survivors. The program takes approximately 9 months to complete and is offered annually. Credentialing requirements include:
- Be at least 5 years exit from exploitation and free from any drug or alcohol dependency
- Have a GED or HSD equivalent
- Apply to the CPSE program, including recommendation from an anti-trafficking agency and interview.
- Complete 10 hours of Self Awareness and Self Care activities
- Complete 18 hours online instruction
- Attend the in-person training Intensive week (30 hours)
- Complete a 12-hour practicum with an anti-trafficking agency
- Satisfactorily complete the final exam
- Monthly check-ins through the first year of placement
In 2025, nine survivors were nominated and accepted into the pilot program. This cohort included survivors from seven different states (AZ, TX, TN, GA, KY, PA, and FL). Five aspire to work in residential care, two in jail ministry, one in emergency care and outreach, and one in advocacy.
Interested in the CPSE credential?
Applications for the 2026 Cohort will be available here starting in January. If you are interested in receiving an application, complete the interest form:
The program starts in April 2026 and continues through August. Participants are required to attend the week-long in-person training intensive, slated for June and are encouraged to attend the graduation ceremony in October.
The cost of participating in this credentialing program is $3,500, due upon acceptance into the program. Additional travels costs may be incurred. A Survivor may be sponsored by a hosting agency or donor.
If you would like to financially sponsor a survivor to participate in the CPSE program or sponsor the full program for all participants, contact:
Linda Thomas
Director of Administration
For more information about the program or to apply for the next cohort, contact:
Shannon Rapier
Program Manager