How to Become a Professional Recovery Coach in South Carolina

Professional recovery coaches in South Carolina provide indispensable yet non-clinical support to everyone determined to overcome addiction.

It takes specific skills, training, and accountability to empower and motivate clients, equipping them with the tools to conquer substance dependency.

This article aims to delve into the field of recovery coaching in South Carolina.

Job Description of a Professional Recovery Coach in South Carolina

It is important to differentiate the role of recovery coaches from therapists, as recovery coaches do not offer treatment.

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

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

Key responsibilities of a recovery coach include:

• Educating clients on essential life skills, such as cultivating 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.
• Conducting regular 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 build 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 South Carolina

If you aspire to pursue a career as a recovery coach in South Carolina, you must follow some steps.

These are detailed below.

1. Obtain a High School Diploma

All professional recovery coaches need a high school diploma or a GED.

This is true for the majority of jobs out there, especially those that are entry-level positions.

2. Gain Practical Experience

Practical experience plays a crucial role in developing the necessary skills for the role of a recovery coach.

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

3. Get certified

There are a few different organizations offering certification in this state.

These are:

• CCAR Certification:
  • The Courage Center, located in South Carolina, offers comprehensive training through CCAR’s Recovery Coach Academy.
  • This 40-hour curriculum serves as the foundation for becoming a Certified Peer Support Specialist in the state.
• CPSS Certification:
  • FAVOR Pee Dee is an organization in South Carolina that offers a certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS) credential.
  • To be eligible for this certification, you must have two years of personal recovery experience.
  • Successful completion of a 40-hour course is also required.
• NCRS Certification:
  • The National Certified Recovery Specialist (NCRS) certification is another valuable credential.
  • This certification tests on your knowledge of addiction and recovery, as well as your coaching skills.

To maintain your NCRS certification, you will need to take continuing education courses to stay updated with the latest advancements in the field.

Additionally, certification renewal is required every two years.

4. Stay Informed and Engaged

To excel in your role as a recovery coach, it is crucial to stay updated on the latest advancements in the field.

Participate in educational initiatives, attend workshops, and engage in continuous learning opportunities to enhance your knowledge and skills.

This proactive approach will enable you to provide the best possible support to individuals in their recovery.

Where you can get trained as a recovery coach in South Carolina

As I already mentioned, training is important for these professionals.

Here is where I present some training programs for this occupation, in South Carolina.

The National Association of Recovery Residences

This institute provides recovery coach training programs that allow you to get certified once completed.

While the school does not provide certification, you can take the national exam at the end of the course.

The school’s recovery coach training programs are flexible and take place either online or in person.

This makes it easier for students who already have a job.

Salary Outlook for Recovery Coaches in South Carolina

You may want to know what income to expect as a recovery coach in this state.

One of the primary determinants of income potential for recovery coaches in South Carolina is the amount of experience they possess.

As recovery coaches gain more experience and expertise, they often have the opportunity to command higher salaries.

The specific region within South Carolina where you practice as a recovery coach can also impact your income potential.

Different regions may have varying demands for recovery services, which can result in different salary ranges.

Urban areas with a higher demand for recovery services may offer more competitive salaries due to the larger client base and increased need for support.

On the other hand, rural areas may have different financial considerations.

To provide you with a unique and comprehensive understanding of the income potential for recovery coaches in South Carolina, we have compiled a detailed table below.

Regional Salary in South Carolina

Professional Recovery Coach by State