Recovery Coach Programs in Chesapeake, Virginia

Becoming a Recovery Coach in Chesapeake, Virginia

Are you considering a rewarding career as a Recovery Coach in Chesapeake, Virginia? This guide will help you understand the steps involved in becoming a Recovery Coach, including the necessary training and certification options available locally. A Recovery Coach, often referred to as a Peer Support Specialist, plays a crucial role in supporting individuals on their journey to recovery from substance use disorders. There are various educational paths you can take to become a Recovery Coach, and this article will explore these options in depth.

About Chesapeake

Chesapeake, Virginia, is a city known for its rich history and beautiful natural landscapes. Located in the Hampton Roads metropolitan area, Chesapeake offers a blend of urban and rural environments. The city is home to the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge and the Chesapeake Arboretum, making it a great place for nature enthusiasts. For more information about Chesapeake, you can visit the official city website.

Recovery Coach Training Programs in Chesapeake, Virginia

If you’re looking to become a Recovery Coach in Chesapeake, there are several local training programs to consider:

1. Virginia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services (DBHDS)
   • The DBHDS offers the Peer Recovery Specialist (PRS) Training, a 72-hour program essential for becoming a certified Peer Recovery Specialist in Virginia. This training is a prerequisite for certification and is provided by DBHDS-certified trainers. For more information, visit the DBHDS website.
2. Chesapeake College – Professional Recovery Coach Course
   • Chesapeake College offers a 60-hour Professional Recovery Coach Course in partnership with the International Association of Professional Recovery Coaches (IAPRC). While this course provides a Certificate of Completion, it is not a state-mandated certification but can enhance your skills as a Recovery Coach. Learn more about the course on the Chesapeake College Ed2Go page.
3. Virginia Association of Peer Recovery Specialists (VAPRS)
   • VAPRS provides various Peer Recovery Specialist trainings throughout Virginia. These trainings are essential for those seeking certification and can be found on the VAPRS website.

Recovery Coach Employment Opportunities in Chesapeake

Chesapeake offers several employment opportunities for Recovery Coaches. Here are some major recovery centers and organizations where you might find employment:

1. Chesapeake Integrated Behavioral Healthcare
   • Located in the Greenbrier neighborhood, this facility provides comprehensive behavioral health services, including substance abuse treatment. They often seek qualified Recovery Coaches to join their team. Visit their employment page for more information.
2. Virginia Beach Psychiatric Center
   • Although located in nearby Virginia Beach, this center offers a range of mental health and substance abuse services and may have opportunities for Recovery Coaches. Check their careers page for current openings.
3. The Barry Robinson Center
   • Situated in Norfolk, this center provides mental health services for children and adolescents, including substance abuse programs. They may employ Recovery Coaches to support their programs. Visit their employment page for more details.

Prerequisites for Recovery Coach Training

To enroll in a Recovery Coach training program in Chesapeake, Virginia, you typically need the following:

• A high school diploma or GED.
• At least 2 years of personal recovery from alcohol and/or drugs.
• Completion of the 72-hour Peer Recovery Specialist (PRS) Training.
• Background checks or screenings may be required by some programs.

Certification Requirements for Recovery Coaches

In Virginia, becoming a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) involves completing the 72-hour PRS training and accumulating 500 hours of work experience. Certification is managed by the Virginia DBHDS. For more information on certification pathways, visit the Virginia PRS Certification and Registration Pathways.

National certification options, such as those offered by the International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC) or NAADAC, the Association for Addiction Professionals, are also available and can enhance your credentials. These certifications provide broader recognition and may open up additional employment opportunities.

Get Started Today

Embarking on a career as a Recovery Coach in Chesapeake, Virginia, is a fulfilling journey that allows you to make a significant impact on individuals’ lives. With the right training and certification, you can become a vital part of the recovery community. Contact a local training program today to start your path toward becoming a Recovery Coach. For more information on the job outlook for similar roles, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics page.