Summary - Peer Support Counseling Certification Webinar

The Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ) is pleased to announce the official launch of the statewide certification program for Peer Support and Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) teams on November 1, 2026. This initiative reflects DOJ’s commitment to supporting the wellness and resilience of first responders and professionals working throughout the criminal justice system.

Peer support services play an essential role in helping first responders manage the emotional impact of their work. These supports may include debriefing, defusing, on‑scene assistance, or one‑on‑one sessions conducted by trained peer team members who provide emotional and moral support.

Under 2023 Wisconsin Act 220, DOJ was directed to create and implement a certification program for these teams. Agencies that obtain certification and meet ongoing training requirements will qualify for statutory privilege protections under Wis. Stat. § 905.095, safeguarding communications between certified peer support or CISM team members and the individuals they serve.

Eligible agencies include:

· Law enforcement

· Tribal law enforcement

· Corrections

· Fire services

· Emergency Medical Services (EMS)

· Nonprofit organizations and other entities that employ, represent, or serve law enforcement officers, tribal officers, correctional officers, jail officers, juvenile detention officers, firefighters, dispatchers, emergency medical responders, EMS practitioners, public safety personnel, or ambulance service provider personnel

Why establish a certified team?
First responders—including law enforcement, firefighters, EMS personnel, corrections officers, 9‑1‑1 dispatchers, and civilian support staff—routinely face traumatic events as part of their duties. The certification program provides a standardized framework to ensure the delivery of consistent, high‑quality peer support and CISM services. It includes:

· Team certification requirements

· Training and documentation standards for team members

· Certification and recertification processes for both team members and instructors

The certification structure is designed to:

· Ensure statewide alignment with established program standards

· Enable testimonial privilege protections under Wis. Stat. § 905.095

· Support quality and consistency in peer support and CISM services

· Verify that instructors and team members maintain appropriate training and documentation

This program reflects the growing recognition of the importance of mental health resources in high‑stress public safety fields and aims to foster a culture of wellness, resilience, and early support intervention.