Recovery Coach Programs in Arlington, Virginia

Becoming a Recovery Coach in Arlington, Virginia

Are you passionate about helping others on their recovery journey? Becoming a Recovery Coach in Arlington, Virginia, could be a fulfilling career path for you. Recovery Coaches, also known as Peer Support Specialists, play a crucial role in supporting individuals recovering from substance use and mental health challenges. This guide will walk you through the process of becoming a Recovery Coach in Arlington, Virginia, including the necessary training programs, certification requirements, and employment opportunities.

About Arlington, Virginia

Arlington, Virginia, located just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., is known for its rich history and diverse community. As a hub for both government and private sector employment, Arlington offers a unique blend of urban and suburban living. The area is home to iconic landmarks such as the Arlington National Cemetery and the Pentagon. For more information about Arlington, visit the Arlington County official website.

Recovery Coach Training Programs in Arlington, Virginia

To become a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) in Arlington, you must complete a 72-hour DBHDS-approved Peer Recovery Specialist Training Curriculum. Here are some local organizations offering Recovery Coach training programs:

  1. Virginia Peer Recovery Specialist Portal: This portal provides comprehensive information on PRS trainings, including a list of DBHDS-approved trainers and an application for training. More details can be found at vaprs.org.

  2. SAARA Program: The Substance Abuse and Addiction Recovery Alliance (SAARA) offers a 72-hour program designed to train individuals to become peer recovery coaches and pass the state certification exam. The program is conducted by certified instructors with personal recovery experience. Visit their website for more information.

  3. Arlington County Behavioral Healthcare Division: Located in the Courthouse neighborhood, this division offers resources and support for individuals pursuing a career in peer recovery. They provide guidance on available training programs and certification processes. For more information, visit their official website.

Recovery Coach Employment Opportunities in Arlington

Arlington offers various employment opportunities for Recovery Coaches within its numerous recovery centers and community organizations. Here are some potential employers:

  1. Phoenix House Mid-Atlantic: Situated in the Clarendon neighborhood, Phoenix House provides a range of substance use treatment services and often hires Recovery Coaches to support their programs. Visit their employment page for current openings.

  2. Virginia Hospital Center: Located in the Ballston neighborhood, this hospital offers behavioral health services and employs Recovery Coaches as part of their comprehensive care team. Check their careers page for job listings.

  3. Arlington County Department of Human Services: This department, located in the Courthouse neighborhood, frequently seeks Recovery Coaches to work within their mental health and substance use programs. Visit their employment opportunities page for more information.

Prerequisites for Recovery Coach Training

To enroll in a Recovery Coach training program in Arlington, Virginia, you must meet the following prerequisites:

  • A minimum of a high school diploma or GED.
  • Personal, lived experience with recovery from substance use and/or mental health issues, or experience as a family member or loved one.
  • Accumulate 500 hours of volunteer or paid experience specific to peer recovery services.
  • Complete 25 hours of on-the-job supervision in the peer recovery specialist domains.

Certification Requirements for Recovery Coaches

In Arlington, Virginia, certification as a Recovery Coach requires:

  • Completion of a 72-hour DBHDS-approved Peer Recovery Specialist Training.
  • Passing the IC&RC Examination for Peer Recovery Specialists.
  • Obtaining certification from the Virginia Certification Board (VCB).
  • Registration with the Department of Health Professions, Board of Counseling, to become a Registered Peer Recovery Specialist (RPRS) for Medicaid billing.
  • Continuing education to maintain certification. For more details, visit the Virginia Certification Board website.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Recovery Coach in Arlington, Virginia, is a rewarding journey that allows you to make a significant impact on the lives of others. With the right training and certification, you can become a vital part of the recovery community. Contact a training program today to take the first step towards this fulfilling career.

For more information on the job outlook for related occupations, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics page for Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors.