Training Overview 
  1. 78 instructional hours; including 66 in class hours and 12 hours of homework. Introductions, ice-breakers, breaks, etc. do not count towards the 78 hours.
  2. Learners are provided a Learner Manual prior to the training. Approved trainers will coordinate this process.
  3. This training is designed to prepare Recovery Specialists for work in the behavioral health field. 
Technology Requirements
  1. Be comfortable with computers, computer application and other technology
  2. Ability to complete online homework (12 hours)
  3. Laptop or desktop device. Mobile devices such as tablets and smartphones cannot be used. 
Class Expectations
  1. Attend all scheduled training days.
  2. Learners must coordinate make-up classes and homework with the trainer.
  3. All requirements must be completed in order to receive a certificate of completion for education hours.
  4. Be EARLY.
  5. Respect confidentiality.
  6. Avoid judgement and respect individual differences.
  7. Respect all pathways to recovery.
  8. Understand that this is a learning environment and not a support group or therapy.
  9. Listen carefully.
  10. Stay focused.

This training is for professionals who are interested in applying for the Certified Recovery Specialist (CRS), the Certified Family Recovery Specialist (CFRS) and/or the Certified Recovery Specialist Supervisor (CRSS) through the Pennsylvania Certification Board (PCB). While most concepts apply to both certifications, there will be times where it is noted/called out for differences/additions. The main purpose of certification is public protection: to ensure individuals are not harmed in any way while receiving recovery support services. Once certified, Recovery Specialists are held to a Code of Ethics. While the credential is active, the Code must always be adhered to – even if the Recovery Specialist is no longer providing recovery support services.  

 

The Role of the Recovery Specialist

The Recovery Specialist is an individual with personal, lived experience of their own recovery. By offering insight into the recovery process, Recovery Specialists are able to share a unique perspective with those with similar life experiences. Recovery Specialists accept and agree that their experience as a person in recovery from a substance use disorder will be known by their colleagues, individuals served, and others with whom they may share that they have achieved this credential. The Recovery Specialist is a role model, mentor, advocate, and motivator. Recovery Specialists advocate for the individual, the recovery system, recovery-oriented services and assist to identify and reduce stigma. Recovery Specialists advocate to eliminate barriers, increase natural supports and build community. Services provided by the Recovery Specialist substantially improve an individual’s and family’s ability to sustain recovery and wellness. 

 

Approved Instructors

 

Class Instructor Date / Location Organization Enroll
Recovery Specialist - 209
Private
Melissa Groden
mgroden@councilsepa.org
-
Southern Bucks Recovery Community Center
PRO-ACT Enroll
A password is required to enroll in this class.
Recovery Specialist - 184
Private
Brad Schweitzer
bheducationservices@gmail.com
-
The Rise Center - 702 N. 8th St, Reading, PA
Facilitated by Behavioral Health Education Services/Hosted by The Council On Chemical Abuse Enroll
A password is required to enroll in this class.
Recovery Specialist - 210
Private
Flyer
Frederick Shue
fshue@councilsepa.org
-
Montgomery County Recovery Community Center (MCRCC) - 601 DeKalb St., Suite 1, Norristown, PA 19401
The Council of Southeast PA / PRO-ACT Enroll
A password is required to enroll in this class.
Recovery Specialist - 214
Private
Frederick Shue
fshue@councilsepa.org
-
Philadelphia Recovery Training Center (PRTC) - 520 N. Columbus Blvd., Ste: 203. Philadelphia, PA 19123
The Council of Southeast PA / PRO-ACT Enroll
A password is required to enroll in this class.
Recovery Specialist - 189
Public
Flyer
Donald Altemus
don@recoveryeducator.com
-
Reading Area Community College 111 Penske Plaza Reading PA 19602
Enroll
A password is required to enroll in this class.
Recovery Specialist - 196
Public
Flyer
Brad Schweitzer
bheducationservices@gmail.com
-
West Lawn United Methodist Church - 15 Woodside Ave, West Lawn PA 19609
Behavioral Health Education Services, LLC. Enroll
A password is required to enroll in this class.
Recovery Specialist - 212
Private
Angela Grannas
aj8081@yahoo.com
-
HACC Campus Harrisburg
HACC Enroll
A password is required to enroll in this class.
Recovery Specialist - 206
Public
Karen Laboranti
laborantitac@gmail.com
-
Scranton, PA
Laboranti Training & Consulting, LLC. Enroll
Recovery Specialist - 213
Private
Brad Schweitzer
bheducationservices@gmail.com
-
The Rise Center - 702 N. 8th St, Reading, PA
Facilitated by Behavioral Health Education Services/Hosted by The Council On Chemical Abuse Enroll
A password is required to enroll in this class.
Recovery Specialist - 207
Public
Karen Laboranti
laborantitac@gmail.com
-
Scranton, PA
Laboranti Training & Consulting, LLC. Enroll