Become a Vermont Recovery Coach
Worried about the addiction epidemic? Want to make a real difference and help those in recovery?
The Vermont Recovery Coach Academy is a comprehensive and relatable training that equips participants with the skills and resources vital to help those in recovery. In Vermont, every year over 12,000 people leave substance use disorder treatment. When they leave treatment, we ensure that they have the evidence- based supports to continue strong in their recovery.
What is a Recovery Coach?
The role of the Recovery Coach reflects a collaborative and strength-based approach, with the primary goal being to assist individuals living in or seeking recovery from the effects of substance use disorders. Recovery Coaches employ the evidence-based practices of motivational interviewing and resource provision. They do not replace other professional services, they complement the existing array of support services. The Recovery Coach is not a twelve-step sponsor, case manager, or therapist, but rather an important resource for a lifetime of recovery.
Where do Recovery Coaches work?
Participants of the Vermont Recovery Coach Academy (VRCA) work or volunteer in recovery resources that serve Vermonters. VRCA graduates use this training in many different professional arenas. Most work for our state’s nationally renowned 12 Recovery Centers located in every corner of the state. Some work or volunteer at treatment centers or hospitals, others use their training in recovery resources such as housing, corrections, employment, youth and family services, harm reduction, or other areas of human service that support recovery.
What should I expect of the Vermont Recovery Coach Academy?
Teachings include intensive dynamic modules in:
- Motivational Interviewing
- Resource Provision
- The Science of Addiction and Harm Reduction
- Ethics and Boundaries
- Multiple Pathways to Recovery
- Self-care and Wellness Plans
- Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
- Stigma Reduction
- Trauma Informed Care
Why should I become a Vermont Recovery Coach?
According to the Vermont Governor’s Office and the Vermont Department of Health, one of the number one needs of healthcare in Vermont is the need for more Vermont Recovery Coaches. We need them in our schools, our Emergency Departments, our corrections facilities, our employment agencies and in our community. People recover – and Recovery Coaches meet them where they are at, providing thoughtful listening, tools, and strength-based resources.
Common Questions
The Vermont Recovery Coach Academy is open to those currently working or volunteering at addiction recovery resources in Vermont. This includes staff at Vermont’s recovery centers, recovery residences, recovery employment agencies, treatment centers, prevention, harm reduction, and some related fields. All students who are associated with one of Vermont’s recovery centers must have the Center Director’s approval in order to attend.
Requirements include: one year minimum of continuous recovery (if applicable), a supervisor, and a strong internet connection.
The cost of the Academy is $900. Applications for full scholarships are available for those working or volunteering at recovery resources that serve Vermonters. Applications will be considered on a case by case basis.
Vermont Recovery Coaches are recognized at the state and international level. Since 2021, Coaches are able to receive international certification through the International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC) and the Vermont Department of Health, ADAP. For more information about certification, visit our Certification page.
All of our Recovery Coaches are held to a Code of Professional Ethics created and governed by the Vermont Recovery Coach Certification Board.
Upcoming Online Academies in 2023
The Vermont Recovery Coach Academy has moved to remote learning! In response to COVID-19, in order to continue making our trainings accessible, all of our future upcoming trainings will be held online.
What Our Recovery Coach Academy Participants Have To Say
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Recovery Vermont
A program of VAMHAR
100 State Street, Suite 352
Montpelier, VT 05602
(802) 223-6263
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