How To Become A Professional Recovery Coach In Alaska

If you’re currently in recovery, then becoming a certified recovery coach is one of the best ways to help others who are just beginning their own journeys.

In order to do this, you’ll need to receive certification from the state of Alaska.

We’re going to show you exactly what’s required to do this and how to go about it.

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The Benefits Of Becoming A Certified Recovery Coach

As a certified recovery coach, you will support people dealing with mental health and substance use disorders throughout the recovery process. This recovery journey will create mutual empowerment for you and your client as you move forward from a position of shared understanding.

The Requirements To Become A Peer Support Professional In Alaska

The requirements to become a peer support professional in Alaska are as follows:

  • 1 year of recovery from a mental health or substance use disorder. Or 1 year of caring for a family member in recovery.
  • 1,000 hours of work experience at an organization that supports people with mental health and substance use disorders.
  • 25 hours of directly supervised practicum hours.

If you don’t have a degree then the following requirements also apply:

  • 37.5 hours of Introduction to Peer Support training
  • 3 hours of ethics training within the last 2 years
  • 3 hours of confidentiality training within the last 2 years
  • 6 hours of infectious diseases and HIV/AIDS training

Recovery Coach Certification, Alaska

As of 2020, Alaska has a state-wide certification process for peer support professionals. Peer supports in the state are certified by The Alaska Commission for Behavioral Health Certification (ACBHC).

The process is multi-tiered meaning there are different levels of peer support certification available.

Training Programs For Peer Support Professionals In Alaska

There are multiple training programs in Alaska for peer support professionals, including:

  • Alaska Behavioral Health: 40 hours
  • Renew Counseling and Consulting: 40 hours
  • Ionia Natural Peer Support Training: 40 hours
  • Partners For Progress: 40 hours

Job Prospects & Earnings For Peer Support Specialists In Alaska

There are many different roles that you can apply for once you’re certified. Which one you choose will depend on your own preferences and experience. On average, recovery coaches in Alaska earn $37,330 annually.

FAQs

Do I need to recertify as a recovery coach in Alaska?

Yes, you need to resubmit your application every 2 years for recertification as a recovery coach in Alaska. This is to ensure you are continuing your education and keeping up with current practices.

What are some of the roles I can apply for once I’m a certified recovery coach in Alaska?

Some examples of the job roles you can apply for once you’re certified include:

  • Peer Recovery Specialist
  • Peer Review Specialist
  • Family Peer Support Specialist
  • Mental Health Peer Support Specialist
  • Peer Partner

Final Thoughts

Becoming a certified recovery coach in Alaska is fairly challenging. Still, the hard work you put into it will be fully repaid by the amazing career you get in return. All of the studying and volunteering is definitely worth it in the end.

Sources:

https://akcertification.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/Final-PDX-of-Peer-Support-Manual-1-13-21.pdf

https://health.alaska.gov/abada/Pages/AKpeerSupport.aspx

https://www.bls.gov/careeroutlook/2017/youre-a-what/peer-support-specialist.htm