How to Become a Professional Recovery Coach in New Jersey

As a recovery coach in New Jersey, you offer guidance and assistance to individuals undergoing addiction treatment and assist them in achieving recovery.

This article aims to delve into the field of recovery coaching and illuminate its significance in the context of New Jersey.

Job Description of a Professional Recovery Coach in New Jersey

It is crucial to acknowledge the distinct role of recovery coaches separate from therapists, as they do not engage in diagnosing or providing treatment to individuals.

The primary focus of a recovery coach is to provide unwavering support and guidance to clients, aiding them in their pursuit of sustainable recovery.

Recovery coaches are equipped to work with individuals grappling with various forms of addiction, offering personalized assistance tailored to their specific needs.

The fundamental responsibilities of a recovery coach encompass:

• Educating clients on vital life skills, such as fostering a healthy and balanced lifestyle through activities like cooking and cleaning.
• Collaborating with clients to establish realistic goals and develop actionable plans to achieve them.
• Regularly conducting safety and wellness checks to ensure clients’ overall well-being throughout their recovery journey.
• Monitoring clients’ progress and holding them accountable for their actions and commitments.
• Facilitating access to additional recovery resources, including support groups, counseling services, or vocational training, based on individual needs.
• Upholding client confidentiality and adhering to HIPAA guidelines to maintain privacy and foster trust.
• Engaging with clients and their families to provide comprehensive support and address any challenges or concerns that may arise.

Steps to Become a Professional Recovery Coach in New Jersey

If you aspire to embark on a career as a recovery coach in New Jersey, here are the steps you can take.

1. Get a High School Diploma

To pursue a career as a recovery coach, it is imperative to hold a high school diploma or an equivalent qualification.

In the absence of a high school diploma, an alternative option is obtaining a General Educational Development (GED) certificate.

2. Gain Practical Experience

Practical experience is of utmost importance in developing the necessary skills for the role.

Consider volunteering at recovery centers or organizations dedicated to addiction recovery within your local area to acquire hands-on experience.

3. Get certified

In order to become a recovery coach in New Jersey, having a college degree is not a prerequisite.

However, there are specific criteria that need to be fulfilled for your application to be accepted:

• Possession of a GED, high school diploma, or higher education diploma.
• Accumulation of at least 500 hours of work or volunteer experience within the past two years.
• Submission of a signature page as proof of attendance at four self-help meetings focused on co-occurring disorders or substance abuse.
• Completion of 25 hours of practicum hours in an approved or licensed agency, which must be pre-approved.
• Presentation of an Ethical Standards Recognition Statement for CPRS (Certified Peer Recovery Specialist) signed by a supervisor.
• Verification of participation in 46 hours of in-person training related to the Four Domains of Peer Recovery.

New Jersey has established comprehensive requirements for recovery coaches compared to other states.

It is essential to obtain certification from The Addiction Professionals Certification Board of New Jersey.

This board is responsible for providing training and certification specifically for coaches within the state.

Additionally, it collaborates globally with IC&RC.

In New Jersey, there are two certifications available for recovery coaches:

• CPRS: This certification is valid exclusively within the state.
• ICPRS: Coaches who hold a CPRS certification and passed the IC&RC PRS test are eligible for this certification.

The ICPRS is in other states.

4. Stay Informed and Engaged

To thrive in your role as a recovery coach, it is essential to remain updated on the latest advancements in the field.

Active participation in classes, workshops, and ongoing educational initiatives will keep you informed of changes and updates.

Finding Recovery Coach Training in New Jersey

To obtain a recovery coach certification, it is necessary to successfully complete the Core Training Course, which is administered by Consumer Connections.

Consumer Connections Core Training Course

This comprehensive training program spans 108 hours and provides the essential core values and skills required for certification.

The course is facilitated by peers and covers 84 hours of theory plus practice.

The Core Training Course takes place three times per year and combines in-person and online training.

You can also get training from a national organization such as CCAR Recovery Coach Academy.

But, this training alone will not allow you to get certified in this state.

Salary Outlook for Recovery Coaches in New Jersey

When it comes to the financial prospects of a career as a recovery coach in New Jersey, the anticipated annual income is approximately $37,802.

However, it’s important to note that individual earnings can vary depending on factors such as personal experience, geographical location, and employer.

For a detailed breakdown of the potential income range specifically for recovery coaches in New Jersey, please refer to the informative table provided below.

This will give you a comprehensive understanding of the financial aspects associated with this profession in the state.

Regional Salary in New Jersey

Professional Recovery Coach by State