Recovery Coach Programs in Portland, Oregon
Becoming a Recovery Coach in Portland, Oregon
Are you interested in becoming a Recovery Coach in Portland, Oregon? A Recovery Coach, sometimes known as a Peer Support Specialist, is an individual who helps guide, mentor, or provide support to those who are seeking recovery from substance use disorders or mental health challenges. In Portland, aspiring Recovery Coaches have various education paths, including options for obtaining certification as a Peer Support Specialist or a Certified Recovery Mentor. This guide will help you navigate the path to becoming a Recovery Coach by exploring local training programs and understanding certification requirements.
About Portland, Oregon
Portland, Oregon, known for its unique culture and emphasis on community well-being, provides an ideal environment for pursuing a career as a Recovery Coach. Home to diverse neighborhoods and landmarks such as Powell’s City of Books and the iconic Portland Japanese Garden, the city fosters a supportive atmosphere for individuals recovering from addiction. For more information about Portland, visit the official city website.
Recovery Coach Training Programs in Portland, Oregon
Fortunately, Portland offers several renowned organizations that provide Recovery Coach training programs:
- Mental Health and Addiction Association of Oregon (MHAAO)
- Located in the central area of Portland, MHAAO offers comprehensive training programs for Peer Support Specialists and Certified Recovery Mentors. Their programs are designed to empower personal experience in recovery while providing essential skills necessary for the role.
- Learn more about their programs on the MHAAO website.
- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) of Oregon
- NAMI Oregon offers various training courses to help individuals become certified Peer Support Specialists. The organization is well-respected for its dedication to mental health advocacy and education.
- Explore their offerings on the NAMI Oregon website.
- Central Oregon Community College (COCC)
- Although located outside the central Portland area, COCC provides a reputable training program that covers both Peer Support Specialist and Peer Wellness Specialist certifications. It’s an excellent option for those willing to commute.
- Find more details on the COCC website.
Recovery Coach Employment Opportunities in Portland
Portland hosts a range of establishments where Recovery Coaches may find employment opportunities, including:
- Cascadia Behavioral Healthcare
- As one of the largest community health providers in Portland, Cascadia Behavioral Healthcare offers extensive services in mental health and addiction recovery. Employment opportunities for Recovery Coaches are available across their facilities in various neighborhoods.
- Check out job openings at Cascadia’s Careers Page.
- De Paul Treatment Centers
- Located in the Pearl District, De Paul Treatment Centers focus on addiction recovery through evidence-based practices and offer roles for both Peer Support Specialists and Certified Recovery Mentors.
- Visit De Paul’s website for more information.
- Outside In
- A non-profit organization in the Southwest Portland area, Outside In provides comprehensive services for vulnerable populations, including substance abuse treatment. They often have roles suitable for Recovery Coaches.
- Discover job opportunities at Outside In Careers.
Prerequisites for Recovery Coach Training
To enroll in a Recovery Coach training program in Portland, you must:
- Be at least 18 years of age.
- Hold a high school diploma or GED certificate.
- Preferably have personal experience in substance abuse recovery or be a family member of someone in recovery.
- Have at least one year of sobriety from alcohol or other substances.
Certification Requirements for Recovery Coaches
To become certified as a Recovery Coach in Portland, Oregon, you must satisfy the following:
- Complete an Oregon Health Authority-approved training program.
- For CRM certification, pass a criminal background check and the CRM Ethics Quiz.
- Maintain certification with 20 hours of continuing education every two years, including specific topics like ethics.
Specific certification options include:
- Certified Recovery Mentor (CRM)
- Peer Support Specialist (PSS)
- Peer Wellness Specialist (PWS)
For more information, please refer to the Mental Health and Addiction Counselor Certification Board of Oregon (MHACBO) and Oregon Health Authority.
Get Started Today
If you aspire to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals recovering from addiction, consider starting your journey to becoming a Recovery Coach in Portland, Oregon. Reach out to one of the training programs discussed above to begin the certification process and take the first step toward a rewarding career.
For further information on the job outlook for similar roles, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics page on Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors.