Recovery Specialists

Recovery specialists provide non-clinical services and supports to people with substance abuse disorders. Recovery specialists have received training on substance abuse disorder treatment and recovery. Peer specialists have also had personal experience with substance abuse. Recovery specialists assist an individual with a substance abuse disorder in navigating and coordinating services throughout the continuum of care. In addition to coordinating healthcare services, recovery specialists may assist with navigating services in the criminal justice system, child welfare services, or the military health system.

Resources to Learn More

What Are Peer Recovery Support Services?
Document
An overview of the various types of services typically needed by individuals in recovery.
Organization(s): Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
Date: 2009

Facing Addition in America: The Surgeon General's Report on Alcohol, Drugs, and Health
Document
A comprehensive report on the neurobiology, prevention, treatment, and recovery of substance addiction. Chapter 6 covers the role of healthcare systems in substance abuse treatment, including how coordination of services can improve chances of recovery.
Organization(s): U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Date: 11/2016