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    Kaely M. Whittington, CPRS

    CPRS Training Coordinator
    On Our Own Maryland
    Bishopville, Maryland

    Kaely Whittington, CPRS (she/her), serves as the CPRS Training Coordinator at On Our Own of Maryland (OOOMD), a statewide peer-operated behavioral health advocacy and education organization promoting equality, justice, autonomy, and choice for individuals with mental health and substance use needs. She coordinates multiple grant-funded projects, provides technical assistance for Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS)-focused initiatives, and develops and presents training based on emerging peer support needs and trends. Kaely is deeply passionate about utilizing her mental health lived experience to advocate for others, empower her peers, and promote autonomy.

    Kaely is a nationally recognized subject matter expert in the area of psychiatric advance directives (PADs), propagating her knowledge and expertise across diverse platforms. Her work includes curriculum development, participation in film projects to raise awareness and understanding, active involvement in relevant committees, presentations at conferences, and contributions to written publications on the topic. Her advocacy work in this area has garnered national recognition, including participation in a panel with the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA).

    As an Advanced Level WRAP Facilitator, Adult Mental Health First Aid Instructor, and Certified Peer Recovery Specialist, Kaely effectively trains and empowers others. Her prior experience as a family peer support specialist for Affiliated Santé Group’s Mobile Crisis Team informs her current work spearheading the Peer Support in Crisis Services project, which aims to integrate peer support more effectively into crisis response. She is also active in the suicide prevention coalition for the lower shore and the CMS-funded HL7 Advance Directive Interoperability project. Kaely holds an A.A. from Wor-Wic Community College. Outside of her professional endeavors, she enjoys expressing her creativity through art and finds relaxation and rejuvenation by spending time near the water.

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