CISM-Peer Support Accreditation

Program Overview

CISM–Peer Support Team Accreditation Program

The Virginia Office of EMS supports the CISM–Peer Support Team Accreditation Program in accordance with Virginia Code § 32.1-111.3. This program was developed through a multi-phase process of the State EMS Advisory Board to establish a standardized approach for CISM and Peer Support teams across the Commonwealth.

Accredited teams may be prioritized when fulfilling requests at the state level and in Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC) deployments. In addition, services provided by CISM and Peer Support teams are recognized as privileged communications under Virginia Code § 19.2-271.4, ensuring confidentiality protections for participants.

To achieve accredited status, a team must complete the application and provide supporting documentation of the required criteria. Applications are reviewed by OEMS staff, and any requests for additional information or clarification will be directed to the primary point of contact listed on the application.

 

Application & Supporting Documents

To apply for initial accreditation or renewal/reaccreditation, teams must complete the Accreditation Application and provide the required supporting documentation. The following resources are available to guide and assist you through the process:

 

  • CISM - Peer Support Training Logs (Excel File)  
    • This optional form is provided as a resource to help teams document and track both minimum and ongoing training requirements. While there is no requirement to use this form, it may help streamline your recordkeeping and simplify the submission process, particularly for larger teams.

 

 

 

 

Accredited Teams

The list of accredited teams is updated quarterly following ratification by the Provider Health & Safety Committee. Accredited teams are recognized as meeting program standards and may be available to support agencies upon direct request. Requests for deployment are coordinated directly with the team; OEMS does not manage or broker these activations.

Information shared with accredited teams during deployment is protected under Virginia Code § 19.2-271.4 (Privileged Communications for Peer Support and CISM).

List of Accredited CISM/Peer Support Teams

 

 

 

Contact

For additional information on the CISM/Peer Support Accreditation process, please contact:

Chris Vernovai, CISM/Peer Support Accreditation Program Manager

Chris.Vernovai@vdh.virginia.gov, or 804-356-1537.

Last Updated: September 17, 2025