How To Become A Certified Recovery Coach In Ohio

Peer recovery support is a growing field. With the rise of substance abuse and mental health issues, the demand for a certified Ohio peer recovery supporter has never been higher. Becoming a certified peer recovery coach supporter is the perfect career choice if you’re interested in helping people to overcome addiction and lead fulfilling lives.

Recovery Coach Certification Ohio

Recovery coaches in Ohio are not required to hold any particular certifications. However, groups like the International Association of Peer Supporters (IAOTS) provide recovery coaching training and certification for peer support specialists, which includes recovery coaching.

When considering certification as a recovery coach, it is essential to consider several factors. The level of support provided to individuals during the certification process, the cost of certification, and ongoing education requirements should all be considered.

Additionally, the reputation and authority of the certifying organization are crucial in ensuring that your certification is recognized and meets industry standards. By carefully considering these factors, you can make an informed decision. You can then choose a certification program that best suits your needs and goals as a recovery coach.

Training And Certification Requirements

To become certified as a peer recovery support specialist by the International Association of Peer Supporters (IAOTS), the following training and certification requirements must be met:

The IAOTS requires the completion of a 40-hour peer support training program. This includes topics such as recovery, peer support principles and techniques, communication skills, and ethics
After completing the training program, candidates must complete a minimum of 200 hours of supervised peer support practice
Candidates must pass a certification exam that tests their knowledge and skills in peer support
The IAOTS certification must be renewed every two years through continuing education and demonstration of ongoing competence in peer support

Applying For Certification

So, you’ve completed your peer specialists training program. You’ve also met the requirements for a certified peer supporter. The next step is applying for certification.

Your application must include the following:

Proof that you have completed a 40-hour peer-supporting program.
Transcripts to show you passed any form of test given during your training course.
Evidence of work experiences in the recovery field, such as letters of reference or a resume.
Depending on the certifying organization, a background check may be required. Proof of recovery from either substance abuse or mental health issues may also be required.
There is usually an application fee.
Any additional documents that the certifying organization, such as an essay or personal statement, may require.

You must then wait for the approval of your application so that you can join the league of certified peer recovery supporters.

Working As A Recovery Coach In Ohio

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that employment opportunities in the counseling sector dealing with drug misusage, behavioral disorders, and mental health are rising. They state that growth is projected to surpass the national average.

They also mention that the average annual salary of a recovery coach is $37,330. This typically rises based on one’s years of experience and the degree of your education.

Working as a recovery coach in Ohio involves providing support and guidance to individuals recovering from substance abuse or other mental health issues. Some of the critical responsibilities of a recovery coach include the following:

Establishing a supportive relationship with individuals in recovery to help them navigate their recovery journey.
Offering guidance and advice on a variety of issues related to recovery, such as overcoming obstacles, building healthy relationships, and developing a solid support system.
Encouraging individuals to set and work towards their goals, both in their personal and professional lives.
Regularly monitoring and assessing the progress of individuals in recovery and adapting support as needed.
Collaborating with other professionals, such as therapists, physicians, and case managers, to provide comprehensive support to individuals in recovery.

Continuing Your Education

As a certified peer recovery supporter, continuing your education is essential. You need to maintain your certification and stay current with best practices and advancements in the field.

Peer recovery supporters have several avenues to pursue if they wish to continue their education after they complete training and gain certification.

This includes the following:

Attending conferences, workshops, and other events to learn about the latest developments in the field and network with other peer specialists.
Participating in peer support groups to learn from others in the field and gain new insights and perspectives.
Engaging in regular supervision with a mentor or senior colleague to receive feedback, guidance, and support in your work as a recovery coach.

Many peer recovery supporter certification boards require you to pursue extra education to keep your certification active.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do certified peer recovery supporters need personal recovery experience?

During the peer recovery supporter certification, it’s emphasized that a large part of peer support is understanding where someone is coming from. Having experience receiving peer support will help you do this.

Your experience of peer recovery support can be used as a reference for your work. This includes the ways that the certified peer recovery supporter helped during your recovery and how they ran their sessions.

What’s it like being a peer recovery supporter?

Although it can be challenging, a career in peer recovery support is often very rewarding. You can use your skills and experience to help others change their lives for the better.

Conclusion

Becoming one of Ohio’s certified peer recovery supporters is a valuable endeavor. It gives you the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively support individuals in their journey toward recovery from substance abuse, mental health, and addiction.

Once you complete your training and gain certification, a whole new world will open up for you as a peer recovery supporter and the patients you will be guiding through recovery.