Recovery Support Specialist Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s health-centric society, the role of a Recovery Support Specialist has never been more crucial.

As we focus on mental and physical health recovery, the demand for empathetic, knowledgeable, and reliable professionals to guide and support individuals on their journey towards recovery is growing exponentially.

But what does a Recovery Support Specialist truly do?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker wanting to understand the heart of this role,
• A hiring manager crafting the perfect candidate profile,
• Or simply curious about the nuances of recovery support,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Recovery Support Specialist job description template, designed for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s delve right into it.

Recovery Support Specialist Duties and Responsibilities

Recovery Support Specialists provide services to clients who are recovering from addiction or mental health disorders.

They act as a role model, mentor, advocate and motivator to recovering individuals in order to help prevent relapse and promote long-term recovery.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Assess the needs of the client and create individualized recovery plans
• Provide emotional and moral support to clients during their recovery process
• Connect clients to resources and services, such as housing, education, employment, and healthcare
• Assist clients in navigating systems of care and accessing community resources
• Monitor the progress of the client and make necessary changes to their recovery plan
• Facilitate recovery-focused groups and workshops
• Maintain confidential client records and document client progress
• Provide crisis intervention and conflict resolution when needed
• Work collaboratively with other members of the client’s care team, such as therapists, doctors, and social workers
• Advocate for the needs and rights of individuals in recovery

 

Recovery Support Specialist Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Recovery Support Specialist to assist our clients on their journey to recovery.

The Recovery Support Specialist will work directly with individuals who are recovering from substance abuse, mental health disorders, or both.

They will provide support, resources, referrals, and recovery education, while ensuring a safe and healthy environment.

Our ideal candidate has personal experience with recovery, a deep understanding of the recovery process, and a passion for helping others.

 

Responsibilities

• Provide recovery education and support to clients
• Assist clients in developing personal recovery plans
• Monitor client progress and adjust recovery plans as needed
• Coordinate with healthcare professionals and other staff to provide comprehensive care
• Facilitate group sessions and recovery workshops
• Help clients build and utilize effective coping strategies
• Document client interactions and progress
• Advocate for clients’ rights and needs
• Maintain strict confidentiality and adhere to all HIPAA guidelines and regulations

 

Qualifications

• High School diploma or GED required; Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Psychology, or related field preferred
• Certified Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS) or equivalent certification preferred
• Personal recovery experience strongly preferred
• Excellent understanding of the recovery process and recovery support methodologies
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work with diverse populations and maintain professional boundaries
• Knowledge of community resources and referral processes
• Must pass a criminal background check

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuing education opportunities
• Opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of others

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Recovery Support Specialist
• Work Environment: Rehabilitation center or clinic setting. Some travel may be required to visit clients or attend community meetings.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Recovery Services Manager or Director.
• Salary: Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $35,000 minimum to $50,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Recovery Support Specialist Do?

A Recovery Support Specialist aids individuals who are recovering from mental health disorders, addictions, or trauma.

They work in a variety of settings like hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and community-based clinics.

They work in tandem with other healthcare professionals to create and implement treatment plans that are tailored to the individual’s unique needs.

This may include counseling sessions, group therapy, medication management, and other recovery-oriented services.

Recovery Support Specialists often provide emotional and moral support to their clients during their recovery journey.

They also educate clients and their families about the nature of their condition, potential triggers, and strategies to cope.

They regularly monitor and document the progress of their clients, reporting any significant changes to the relevant healthcare providers.

Recovery Support Specialists also assist clients in reintegrating into society by helping them with job placements, housing, and other essential needs.

They often act as advocates for their clients, helping to destigmatize mental health issues and addiction within the community and promoting the importance of recovery services.

Finally, they are also responsible for keeping up to date with the latest developments in the field of mental health and addiction recovery, to provide the best possible care and support for their clients.

 

Recovery Support Specialist Qualifications and Skills

A Recovery Support Specialist should possess certain skills and qualifications that align with the job description, such as:

• Strong interpersonal skills to establish trust and rapport with individuals in recovery, helping them feel understood and supported.
• Experience in providing support for individuals in recovery from addiction or mental health disorders, understanding their challenges and needs.
• Excellent communication skills to effectively convey recovery concepts and coping strategies, as well as to listen and respond empathetically to the concerns and experiences of individuals in recovery.
• Problem-solving abilities to identify potential obstacles to recovery and develop actionable plans to address these issues.
• Knowledge of community resources and services that can aid in the recovery process, and the ability to connect individuals with these resources.
• Patience and resilience to navigate the recovery process with individuals, who may face setbacks and challenges along the way.
• Ability to maintain strict confidentiality and adhere to ethical guidelines and standards of the profession.
• Physical and emotional stamina to manage the demands of working with individuals in recovery, which may include crisis situations.

 

Recovery Support Specialist Experience Requirements

Entry-level Recovery Support Specialists may have 1 to 2 years of experience, often gained through internships or part-time roles in mental health or addiction recovery services.

Many professionals in this role start as case managers or social service assistants, where they gain practical knowledge in providing support to individuals dealing with substance abuse or mental health issues.

Those with more than 2 years of experience may have worked in addiction recovery centers or psychiatric wards, where they have honed their skills in recovery support, client counseling, crisis intervention, and relapse prevention.

Recovery Support Specialists with over 5 years of experience might have significant experience working in a variety of settings such as hospitals, outpatient centers, and residential treatment facilities.

They may have handled complex cases involving dual diagnosis and co-occurring disorders, and have experience in leading group therapy sessions and facilitating peer support groups.

Candidates with this level of experience may also be equipped with managerial skills, capable of leading a team of recovery support workers, and overseeing the implementation of recovery programs and treatment plans.

They may be ready for a managerial or team-lead position in recovery support services.

In addition to practical experience, Recovery Support Specialists often require certification such as the Certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist (CPRSS) or the Certified Recovery Peer Specialist (CRPS) certifications.

These certifications require a combination of education, work experience, and a passing score on a competency exam.

 

Recovery Support Specialist Education and Training Requirements

Recovery Support Specialists typically have a high school diploma or a GED as a minimum requirement.

They then need to complete a specialized training program that focuses on peer support, recovery principles, mental health, and coaching.

This program varies in length but is generally around 40 hours and upon completion, individuals earn a certification as a Recovery Support Specialist.

In addition to the training program, many states require Recovery Support Specialists to have firsthand experience in recovery, whether it’s from addiction, mental health issues, or both.

This experience is crucial as it enables them to better empathize with and support those they are helping.

Further, many employers prefer Recovery Support Specialists to have an associate or bachelor’s degree in a related field such as psychology, social work, or counseling.

Recovery Support Specialists must also possess strong communication skills, as they will be interacting with individuals in recovery as well as their families and other healthcare professionals.

To maintain their certification, Recovery Support Specialists are often required to complete continuing education courses.

This ensures they stay updated on the latest recovery strategies and understand the best practices for supporting individuals in their recovery journey.

Voluntary certifications, like those offered by the Association of Addiction Professionals, can also demonstrate a Recovery Support Specialist’s commitment to their professional development.

 

Recovery Support Specialist Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Recovery Support Specialist is $37,000 (USD) per year.

However, the actual compensation can vary greatly depending on factors such as experience, location, and the specific organization.

Some more experienced Recovery Support Specialists may earn over $45,000 annually.

 

Recovery Support Specialist Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Recovery Support Specialist need?

Recovery Support Specialists should have strong communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to empathize with patients.

They should possess a deep understanding of the recovery process and be able to encourage and motivate patients through challenging times.

Organizational and problem-solving skills are also important to coordinate care and find solutions to barriers in recovery.

 

Do Recovery Support Specialists need a degree?

While some roles do not require more than a high school diploma, many Recovery Support Specialist positions ask for a bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, or a related field.

Many also require certification or training in recovery coaching, peer support, or substance abuse counseling.

It’s important to note that personal experience with recovery can be seen as an asset in this role.

 

What should you look for in a Recovery Support Specialist resume?

Look for evidence of formal education in social work, psychology, or related fields, as well as any certifications or trainings in recovery support or counseling.

Experience working in recovery settings, such as rehabilitation centers or outpatient clinics, is highly valuable.

Personal experience with recovery can provide unique insight and foster deep empathy with patients, making it a desirable quality as well.

 

What qualities make a good Recovery Support Specialist?

A good Recovery Support Specialist should exhibit strong empathetic skills, resilience, and a genuine desire to help others.

They should be patient, supportive, and maintain a positive attitude, helping patients remain hopeful and motivated through their recovery journey.

Good Recovery Support Specialists also have excellent communication skills, enabling them to effectively liaise between patients and healthcare providers.

 

What is the role of a Recovery Support Specialist in a patient’s recovery journey?

Recovery Support Specialists play a crucial role in a patient’s recovery journey.

They provide emotional and practical support, help patients develop coping strategies, and assist in creating a stable recovery environment.

They also liaise between patients and healthcare providers, advocating for the patient’s needs and facilitating communication.

In some cases, they also provide education to families and communities about substance abuse and recovery.

 

Conclusion

So there you have it.

Today, we’ve dug into the heart of what it truly means to be a Recovery Support Specialist.

And guess what?

It’s not merely about offering help.

It’s about facilitating a journey towards healing, one step at a time.

With our comprehensive Recovery Support Specialist job description template and tangible examples, you’re all set to make your next move.

But why stop there?

Venture further with our job description generator. It’s your go-to tool for crafting precise job listings or honing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every step taken is a piece of a larger recovery journey.

Let’s traverse that path. Together.

How to Become a Recovery Support Specialist (Complete Guide)

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