Certified Recovery Specialist

Certified Recovery Specialists provides supportive services to enhance clients’ recovery, including but not limited to services within the following areas: outreach, peer-based recovery support, and mentoring in all stages of recovery. Certified Recovery Specialists assist participants in gaining access to resources needed in the community by assisting them in overcoming barriers and helping bridge gaps between their needs and available resources. Such services should be made available to individuals at all stages of the recovery process including to those not yet engaged in treatment or other services. These services will enhance the service continuum by offering ongoing supports and assistance in promoting and encouraging long-term recovery. Certified Recovery Specialists work closely with program participants before, during, and after their treatment experiences to support and assist them in their recovery, in understanding and navigating the system of care, as well as encouraging any necessary connections with other service systems.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Facilitates assistance in accessing various community resources (education, housing, transportation, recovery support, employment, etc.).
• Offers referrals to treatment services when necessary.
• Provides guidance on the recovery process and recovery education.
• Helps clients with developing a Personal Recovery Plan.
• Offers support and advocacy related to obstacles that are often encountered during the early stages of recovery.
• Assists participants in acquiring self-care skills such as budgeting, nutrition, housekeeping, interview skills, hygiene, etc.
• Provides telephone recovery support when applicable (i.e. Recovery Checkups).
• Monitors participants’ recovery stability.
• Introduces and engages participants in the recovery community.
• Provides support before, during, and after treatment.
• Provides outreach and advocacy for those in the early stages of recovery (i.e. Meeting with landlord and client).
• Assists case managers and drug and alcohol staff with outreach activities to engage new participants in the recovery process.
• Performs follow-up activities with participants who have completed programs or need re-admission.
• Attends training as identified for the position, target population, and individual need for professional growth.

EDUCATION & QUALIFICATIONS:

• High School Diploma or GED
• Certification as a Pennsylvania Certified Recovery Specialist 
• Minimum of two (2) years' experience as a Certified Recovery Specialist
• Three (3) years of experience working with people with substance use disorders or related field in nonprofit sector, social service, or direct services
• Working knowledge of community resources in Philadelphia
• Must be able to demonstrate an ability to be responsive in an effective manner, while maintaining a professional and supportive demeanor
• Basic reporting skills including data entry, Outlook, Excel, and Word processing
• Ability to be self-directed and work independently without supervision. Able to work on a team, collaboratively, when necessary
• Qualified candidates must possess a valid driver's license, have access to a reliable vehicle, and provide proof of insurance