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certification program

Recovery Coach Academy of Canada

Recovery Coach Academy of Canada (RCA) is creating a new standard for recovery coaching through the introduction of a certification program designed specifically to develop Recovery Coach Professionals (RCP). RCA offers a comprehensive curriculum that includes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for professionals to support individuals on their journey to recovery.

The Problem

A Workforce Gap in Recovery-Oriented Services

Canada’s addiction and mental health care system faces a critical shortage of qualified professionals to meet the rising demand for recovery services. According to the Canadian Mental Health Association (2022), mental health service wait times often exceed six months, leaving many individuals without essential support during critical recovery stages. Peer recovery support has emerged as an effective model to bridge this service gap by leveraging lived experience to guide and mentor those in recovery (White & Evans, 2014).

However, peer recovery coaching has lacked formal recognition, standardized training, and a career development framework in Canada. Without these elements, peer coaches often face limited career advancement, inconsistent training quality, and unclear service standards. This fragmented landscape inspired the creation of the Recovery Coach Academy of Canada.

The Solution

A National Training and Credentialing Platform

Founded in 2022, RCA set out to professionalize the peer recovery workforce through comprehensive training, certification, and career development pathways. By offering evidence-based curricula rooted in recovery-oriented care, RCA builds a skilled, credentialed workforce capable of delivering person-centered, trauma-informed, and culturally competent services.

 

Core Training and Credentialing Programs:

A nationally recognized credential providing foundational training in peer coaching, motivational interviewing, and recovery planning

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Specialized training in areas such as Indigenous Cultural Healing, Family Support Coaching, Coaching in Correctional Settings, and Workplace Recovery

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Ongoing professional development for certified coaches to enhance skill sets in emerging recovery practices

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Preparing experienced coaches for leadership and mentorship roles within recovery-focused organizations

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Where RCA Is Now

Driving National Workforce Development

Since its founding, RCA has become a leading voice in Canada’s recovery services sector.

Its training programs support recovery organizations, government-funded treatment centres, and private-sector health providers. To date, RCA has trained over 280 recovery coaches, many of whom are employed within addiction treatment programs, recovery housing, and harm reduction services.

Key Milestones & Achievements

Program Reach

  • Delivered training programs across Alberta
  • Partnered with provincial health authorities and recovery-focused nonprofits

National Credentialing Standards

  • Co-developed Canada’s first competency-based recovery coaching certification aligned with international standards (IC&RC, 2022)

Cultural and Community Integration

  • Created culturally responsive training tracks in collaboration with Indigenous Knowledge Keepers and Elders to ensure culturally safe practices in recovery coaching

Research-Driven Impact

Collaborated with academic institutions on peer recovery research, influencing policy development and funding priorities for peer-based services

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Future Initiatives

Looking Ahead

RCA remains committed to advancing recovery-oriented systems of care by strengthening Canada’s peer recovery workforce.

Its future initiatives include developing a digital training platform, launching specialized certifications for justice-involved populations, and expanding Indigenous-led recovery coaching tracks.

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