How can I get the BHP Training?
The University of Maine at Augusta has contracted with the Behavioral Health Sciences Institute (BHSI) to coordinate all aspects of the Behavioral Health Professional Training Program in compliance with the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Child and Family Services - Children’s Behavioral Health Services (DHHS - OCFS - CBHS). BHSI instructs and certifies qualified individuals to deliver the BHP training within agencies. In addition, BHSI hosts BHP courses throughout the year. BHSI-hosted trainings are open to the first 20 qualified participants. Agency-sponsored BHP trainings are required to have five seats open to participants who are not from that agency. BHSI sends out notifications of all BHP trainings 30 days in advance of the training. If you would like to inquire about upcoming BHP trainings, or if you would like us to include you on our mailing list, please contact BHSI at (207) 321-6081 x102. Also, you can view the current list of state-wide trainings at this location.
What is the cost of the BHP Training?
There is no cost to attend BHSI-hosted trainings. However, trainings hosted by outside agencies may require a small fee for materials.
How do I get a BHP certification?
If you work under MaineCare section 65 you will need to take the BHP Module One Exam within 30 days of hire, and then will need to take the remaining 9 Modules and take the BHP final exam from a Certified BHP Trainer within a year. If you have a Certified BHP Trainer in your agency, that person may administer, grade the Module One Exam, and submit the results to BHSI. If you do not have a trainer, your agency can order the Module One video and exam from BHSI for $10.00. You would then take the exam and submit to BHSI to be graded.
What if I work under Maine Care Section 24?
Currently, if you work under MaineCare section 24 you are not eligible for BHP certification, but will receive a certificate of completion of the class. The Department of Health and Human Services highly recommends that people working under section 24 take the full 50 BHP course.
What do I need to pass the BHP Module One Exam and BHP Final Exam?
You need a 75 or better to pass both the BHP Module One Exam and BHP Final Exam. If you receive a 75 or better on the Module One Exam, you will obtain provisional certification which allows you to do BHP work for a year while you simultaneously complete the rest of the modules.
What are the qualifications to become a Certified BHP?
To qualify to become a certified BHP you must have a Bachelors Degree in a related field, verification of certification in CPR, First Aid, and Blood borne Pathogens, and have completed the 50 hour BHP training with a Certified BHP Trainer.
What if I don't have a Bachelor's Degree?
Anyone interested in taking the BHP course can do so. If you do not have a Bachelor's degree, and have completed the 50 hour BHP training with a Certified BHP Trainer along with CPR, First Aid, and Blood borne Pathogens you are eligible to receive a BHP Certification of Completion. The Certificate of Completion can be transformed into a BHP Certification once you get a Bachelor's Degree.
What if I don't have a Bachelor's Degree, but I am in College?
If you are a senior in college you are eligible for BHP certification as long as you have completed the 50 hour BHP training with a Certified BHP Trainer along with CPR, First Aid and Blood borne Pathogens
How do I become a Certified BHP Trainer?
You need to apply to go through the BHSI BHP Train-the- Trainer Course. To be eligible to take the course you need to: have either a Masters Degree in a Human Services related field, OR a Bachelors Degree in a related field, OR a R.N./Bachelor’s level with psychiatric emphasis and 3 years of experience in relevant programs providing services to children and families. You will need to demonstrate training skills documentation i.e. 2 years training adult learners, and one letter of recommendation from a Supervisor or Human Resource Administrator.
Further questions? Please contact:
David Kinsella, LCSW
BHSI Division Manager
Phone: 207-321-6081 x101
Email: dkinsella@bhsi.net