Yes, you can work as a substance abuse counselor while in recovery. Peer support specialist roles specifically require lived experience and typically need 1-2 years of continuous sobriety. Licensed professional counselor positions don’t require recovery status and focus on education and clinical competency instead.
Table of Contents
- Yes, You Can Work as a Counselor While in Recovery—With Requirements
- Minimum Recovery Time Requirements
- Peer Support Specialist: Your Entry Point in Recovery
- Professional Counselor Path: SUDP and Beyond
- Programs and Employers That Welcome Counselors in Recovery
- Benefits of Being a Counselor in Recovery
- Challenges You Need to Consider
- Legal Protections and Employer Policies
- Washington State: Pathways and Programs
- Common Questions from People in Recovery
- Best Practices for Success
Many people in recovery from substance use disorders wonder if their hardest-fought personal battle could become their life’s work. It’s a natural question. After all, who better understands the daily struggle of addiction than someone who has lived it? The good news is that working as a substance abuse counselor while in recovery isn’t just possible—it’s increasingly common and often highly valued in the treatment field.
Your lived experience can be a powerful asset in helping others find their path to recovery. However, this career path comes with specific requirements, essential considerations, and both opportunities and challenges that you need to understand before making a leap.
Yes, You Can Work as a Counselor While in Recovery—With Requirements
The straightforward answer is yes. Individuals in recovery can and do work as substance abuse counselors across the country. Many treatment programs and facilities actively seek out counselors with lived experience, recognizing the unique insights and authentic connections they bring to their work.
Research backs this up. Studies show that counselors who are personally in recovery report significantly higher levels of commitment to their profession. They feel a stronger emotional connection to their work and identify more deeply with their role as helpers. This isn’t just sentiment—it translates into real dedication to clients and the field.
The catch? You can’t jump straight from treatment into a counseling role. Most programs and employers require a minimum period of stable recovery before you can begin working in the field. This isn’t arbitrary gatekeeping. It’s about protecting both you and the clients you’ll serve.
Think about it this way: you can’t pour from an empty cup. Working in addiction treatment means constant exposure to triggers, stories of active use, and the emotional weight of watching people struggle. You need a solid foundation in your own recovery before you take on that responsibility.
Minimum Recovery Time Requirements
The standard recommendation across most addiction counseling programs is a minimum of two years of continuous sobriety before entering the field as a counselor. This guideline is widely accepted in the addiction treatment community and shows up in both educational program requirements and employer hiring policies.
It’s essential to understand what these timelines apply to. The 1-2 year sobriety requirement is primarily for peer support specialist roles and entry-level positions where lived experience is a central component of the job. For licensed professional counselor credentials, such as the SUDP, there’s no requirement to be in recovery at all. Those credentials focus on education, supervised clinical experience, and demonstrated competency.
Some programs are explicit about this. For example, NHTI’s Human Service department states clearly: “The Human Service department abides by the accepted national standard that recommends a minimum of two years of sobriety for any prospective trainee in the field of alcohol and other drug-use counseling.”
But requirements do vary by state and role. Washington State has recently updated its regulations to reduce barriers to licensure. As of the current rules, applicants with one year in recovery from a substance use disorder aren’t required to enter a monitoring program for substance use. Those with less than one year of recovery may be required to participate in monitoring until they reach one year of recovery. Check with your state licensing board for specific requirements in your area, as policies vary significantly.
Here’s what you need to know about the timeline:
- Most educational programs recommend a minimum of 2 years of sobriety
- Some states accept 1 year for certain entry-level positions
- Peer support specialist roles typically require 1-2 years of documented recovery
- Professional counselor credentials may have different standards by state
- Employers often have their own policies beyond state minimums
Why does this time matter? Two years gives you space to build the recovery skills you’ll need to stay sober while working in a high-stress, trigger-rich environment. It allows you to develop healthy coping strategies, establish a support network, and prove to yourself that your recovery is sustainable.
Peer Support Specialist: Your Entry Point in Recovery
If you’re in recovery and want to enter the addiction treatment field, becoming a peer support specialist is often your best starting point. These roles are specifically designed for individuals with lived experience of addiction and recovery. In fact, having that personal experience is a requirement, not just a nice-to-have.
Peer support specialists are often referred to by various names, depending on the state, including Peer Recovery Specialist, Certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist, or Certified Peer Support Specialist. The role remains the same—utilizing your own recovery journey to support others as they work toward theirs.
What Peer Support Specialists Actually Do
Peer support specialists utilize their own recovery experiences to provide empathy, support, and guidance to individuals facing similar challenges. You’re not providing clinical counseling or therapy. You’re offering something different—the hope and practical wisdom that comes from having been where your clients are now.
Your daily responsibilities might include:
- Providing one-on-one mentoring and support
- Facilitating peer support groups
- Helping clients set goals and develop recovery plans
- Accompanying clients to recovery meetings and appointments
- Connecting clients with community resources
- Offering hope through your own recovery success story
- Providing role modeling for what recovery looks like
You work under the supervision of licensed clinicians. Your role is supportive, not clinical. That’s an important distinction that protects both you and your clients.
Requirements for Becoming a Peer Support Specialist
The beauty of peer support specialist positions is that they have lower educational barriers than traditional counseling roles. This makes them accessible to people in recovery who may not have college degrees or extensive formal education.
Here’s what most states require. These requirements vary by state, so check with your state’s licensing board or certification authority for specific requirements in your area.
Educational Requirements:
- High school diploma or GED
- 40-100 hours of approved training specific to peer recovery support
- Some states require completion of state-approved training programs (Washington requires 80 hours)
Recovery Experience Requirements:
- Minimum of 1-2 years in recovery from a substance use disorder or mental health condition
- Must self-identify as being in recovery or as a family member supporting someone in recovery
- Personal recovery must be stable and sustained
Experience and Supervision:
- 200-500 hours of supervised work or volunteer experience providing peer support services
- 25+ hours of direct supervision from qualified supervisory staff
- Documentation of your support activities
Certification Exam:
- Passing score on the IC&RC Peer Recovery Examination or state-specific exam
- The IC&RC exam is a 75-question multiple-choice test
- Covers four domains: Advocacy, Ethical Responsibility, Mentoring/Education, and Recovery/Wellness Support
The timeline to become certified typically ranges from 6 months to 1 year, depending on how quickly you complete your training hours and supervised experience. Some people complete the process faster by volunteering extensively while working through their training. If you’re ready to explore this pathway, learn more about becoming a peer support specialist with our comprehensive guide.
Professional Counselor Path: SUDP and Beyond
If you want to advance beyond peer support roles into professional counseling positions, the path requires more extensive education and training. The credentials and requirements vary by state. In Washington State, the professional credential is called a Substance Use Disorder Professional (SUDP). For a comprehensive overview of educational pathways, explore our guide to substance abuse counseling degree programs.
Education Requirements
Unlike peer support roles that only require a high school diploma, becoming a professional substance abuse counselor requires significant formal education:
- Associate degree or 60 college credits, including 30 credits in substance use disorder counseling, OR
- Bachelor’s degree (reduces supervised experience hours required), OR
- Master’s or doctoral degree in a related field (further reduces required hours)
The more education you have, the fewer supervised clinical hours you’ll need to complete. This creates multiple pathways into the profession depending on your starting point.
Supervised Experience Requirements by Degree Level
The amount of supervised clinical experience required varies significantly based on your education level:
| Education Level | Required Supervised Hours | Face-to-Face Counseling Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Apprenticeship program | 4,000 hours | 600 hours minimum |
| Associate degree or 60 qualifying credits | 2,500 hours | 600 hours minimum |
| Bachelor’s degree | 2,000 hours | 600 hours minimum |
| Master’s or doctoral degree | 1,500 hours | 600 hours minimum |
| Already licensed in a related profession | 1,000 hours | 600 hours minimum |
Regardless of your education level, your supervised hours must include specific components:
- 200 hours of clinical evaluation (100 hours must be face-to-face patient contact)
- 600 hours of face-to-face counseling (individual, group, and family)
- 50 hours discussing professional and ethical responsibilities
- The first 50 hours of patient contact must be under direct observation
Do You Need to Be in Recovery for Professional Credentials?
Here’s something important: there’s no explicit requirement that SUDP candidates or professional substance abuse counselors be in recovery themselves. Many in the field have personal recovery experience, and some employers prefer or require it for certain positions. But the state regulations focus on education, knowledge, and competency rather than personal recovery status for professional-level credentials.
This means you can pursue professional counseling credentials regardless of whether you’re in recovery. Your lived experience may give you advantages in connecting with clients, but it’s not a legal or regulatory requirement for professional licensure.
Programs and Employers That Welcome Counselors in Recovery
Plenty of treatment facilities, recovery programs, and supportive employers actively hire counselors and staff who are in recovery. They view lived experience as a strength rather than a liability. Here’s where you’ll find the most opportunities.
Treatment Facilities and Rehabilitation Centers
Many substance abuse treatment facilities employ a mix of clinically trained counselors and those with lived experience. These settings value the authentic connections that counselors in recovery can build with clients.
Residential Treatment Programs: Inpatient facilities often hire staff with recovery experience for various roles. If you’ve been through residential treatment yourself, you understand the challenges of 24/7 structured living and can provide insights that purely academic training can’t replicate.
Outpatient Treatment Centers: Intensive outpatient programs (IOP) and standard outpatient services frequently hire counselors in recovery, particularly for group facilitation roles. These settings offer more flexibility in your schedule, which can help maintain your own recovery activities.
Detoxification Centers: Detox facilities employ behavioral health technicians, peer support specialists, and counselors—roles that are accessible to people in recovery who meet the credential requirements.
Sober Living Homes and Recovery Residences
Sober living facilities are particularly open to employing individuals in recovery. In fact, having lived experience is often considered essential for these roles:
- House managers and live-in staff positions
- Recovery coaches provide accountability and support
- Case managers helping residents with daily living skills
- Employment support specialists assisting with job search and career planning
Facilities like Seattle Sober Living emphasize structure, accountability, and peer support. Many staff members share their own recovery experiences to build authentic connections with residents. If you’re early in your recovery career journey, sober living facilities can offer excellent entry-level opportunities while you pursue additional credentials.
Recovery-Friendly Workplaces
An increasing number of employers are adopting recovery-supportive workplace policies. These organizations don’t just accommodate employees in recovery—they actively recruit individuals with recovery experience and recognize it as a strength.
Recovery-friendly workplaces typically:
- Recognize recovery as an asset rather than a limitation
- Commit to hiring people in recovery
- Provide training to staff about addiction and recovery
- Offer flexibility to support recovery-related needs (therapy appointments, support group meetings)
- Reduce stigma through inclusive language and policies
Seattle and Washington-Area Opportunities
If you’re in the Seattle area or elsewhere in Washington State, several organizations specifically serve individuals with substance use disorder and actively employ people with lived experience:
Contracted Agencies in King County:
- Community Psychiatric Clinic
- Cowlitz Tribal Health
- Seattle Indian Health Board
- Sound
- Therapeutic Health Services
The Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Program in Seattle partners with FareStart to provide six weeks of education and job skills training for participants. This includes opportunities for continued employment support after graduation.
Recovery Career Services is a specialized organization that works specifically with people in recovery to help them rebuild their careers through coaching, workshops, education, and employment support.
Benefits of Being a Counselor in Recovery
Working as a substance abuse counselor while in recovery offers unique advantages that counselors without lived experience can’t replicate. These benefits extend to both your clients and your own continued recovery.
Authentic Connection and Rapport
When you’ve “been there,” you can establish immediate rapport with clients. You understand firsthand the shame, fear, and challenges of addiction. This creates a safe, judgment-free environment where clients feel truly seen and understood. They can’t dismiss your advice with “you don’t know what it’s like” because you do know. You’ve lived it.
Credibility and Hope
You serve as living proof that recovery is possible. Your presence offers hope to clients who may be struggling to envision a life beyond addiction. When someone in early recovery sees you—thriving, working, building a meaningful career—it becomes real for them in a way that statistics and treatment theory never could.
Deep Understanding of the Recovery Process
Personal experience with the stages of change, the ups and downs of recovery, and the challenges of maintaining sobriety provides invaluable insight. You know what it’s like to white-knuckle through cravings. You understand the isolation of early sobriety. You’ve felt the pull of older adults, places, and things. This knowledge informs every interaction with your clients.
Reinforcement of Your Personal Recovery
Many counselors in recovery report that their work reinforces their own sobriety. You’re constantly reminded of where you’ve been and the consequences of relapse. You see the progression of the disease in your clients. You witness both the devastation of continued use and the beauty of sustained recovery. This keeps your own recovery at the forefront.
Higher Professional Commitment
Research shows that substance abuse counselors who are personally in recovery express significantly higher affective professional commitment than those who aren’t in recovery. This suggests a deeper emotional connection and greater identification with the profession. You’re not just doing a job—you’re living a mission.
Challenges You Need to Consider
Working as a counselor in recovery can be deeply rewarding, but it also presents unique challenges that require careful consideration. Being honest about these challenges isn’t discouraging—it’s protective. You need to know what you’re getting into.
Risk of Relapse Through Cue Exposure
Addiction counselors in recovery face constant exposure to potential triggers. You’ll work with clients who may glorify substance use or exhibit using behaviors. You might encounter former acquaintances who are now clients, triggering memories of past substance use.
One counselor in recovery shared candidly on Reddit: “I work as a therapist at a drug and alcohol rehab, and many of our clients stay in the area. In the past year, I have found myself addicted to a different substance and desperately need to throw myself into community; however, I am in a terrible bind.”
This isn’t meant to scare you. It’s intended to prepare you. You need rock-solid recovery foundations and excellent self-care practices before undertaking this level of daily exposure.
Boundary and Dual Relationship Concerns
If you attend 12-step meetings or other recovery support groups in your area, you may encounter your clients at those same meetings. This creates potential dual relationships that must be carefully managed. How do you maintain confidentiality when you see each other in both professional and personal recovery settings?
These boundary issues get complicated quickly. You need clear policies and good supervision to navigate them ethically.
Self-Disclosure Dilemmas
Should you disclose to clients that you’re in recovery? How much should you share? When is disclosure helpful versus harmful?
These questions don’t have simple answers. Some clients respond positively to knowing their counselor has shared a similar experience. Others may use it against you or become overly focused on your story rather than their own recovery. Disclosure can establish a connection or it can complicate the therapeutic relationship.
Most ethics experts recommend using self-disclosure sparingly and strategically. It should serve the client’s therapeutic needs, not your need to connect or be seen as authentic. The focus must remain on the client’s recovery, not your story.
Professional Credibility Tied to Recovery Status
If your professional identity becomes too closely tied to your recovery status, relapse can devastate not only your personal life but also your professional credibility and livelihood. Clients who knew you as a counselor in recovery may struggle to trust you again. Employers may question your judgment. You may lose your job.
This isn’t meant to suggest that relapse equals professional failure forever. Recovery isn’t linear for anyone. But the stakes are higher when your career is built on your recovery status.
Increased Need for Self-Care
Working in addiction treatment while maintaining personal recovery requires exceptional self-care practices. The emotional demands of the work, combined with constant exposure to addiction-related content, create significant stress.
You need firm boundaries, regular supervision, and active engagement in your own recovery program. Your personal recovery must always come first. If you can’t maintain that priority, you’re at risk of losing both your recovery and your career.
Potential for Burnout
Many counselors in the addiction field experience burnout. High caseloads, limited resources for clients with co-occurring disorders, and the emotional toll of witnessing relapse and struggle take their toll. Add in the pressure of maintaining your own recovery, and the risk of burnout increases.
You need to recognize the warning signs of burnout and take action before you reach a crisis point. This might mean reducing your caseload, seeking additional supervision, or temporarily stepping back from direct client work.
Legal Protections and Employer Policies
Understanding your legal rights and employer responsibilities is crucial when working as a counselor in recovery. You have protections under federal law, but they come with significant limitations.
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Protections
The ADA protects individuals in recovery from addiction, though it doesn’t protect those currently using illegal drugs. Here’s what this means for you:
- Protection from discrimination based on a history of addiction when you’re in recovery
- Right to reasonable accommodations (flexible schedules for therapy or meetings)
- Protection of confidentiality regarding your recovery status
- Job protection when seeking treatment
The keyword is “recovery.” If you’re currently using illegal drugs, you don’t have ADA protection. But if you’re in recovery—even if you’ve had a slip—you may still be protected.
Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA)
FMLA allows eligible employees to take up to 12 weeks of leave for substance abuse treatment without losing their jobs. This protection applies whether you’re seeking initial treatment or returning to treatment after a relapse.
Not all employees are eligible for FMLA. You typically need to have worked for your employer for at least 12 months and worked at least 1,250 hours during that time. Your employer must also have 50 or more employees within a 75-mile radius.
Relapse Policies in the Workplace
Workplace policies regarding relapse vary significantly. Understanding your specific employer’s policies is crucial. Generally:
- Current illegal drug use removes ADA protection
- Relapse outside of work hours that doesn’t impact job performance may still be protected
- Relapse that violates company policy or affects work performance can result in discipline or termination
- Some recovery-supportive workplaces treat relapse as a treatable part of recovery rather than automatic grounds for termination.
If you work for a recovery-friendly employer, they may have policies that acknowledge relapse as part of the recovery process. These employers might offer support, require you to re-engage with treatment, or temporarily reassign you to non-clinical duties rather than immediately terminating employment.
Other employers have zero-tolerance policies. Know which kind of workplace you’re in before you need that information.
Disclosure Considerations
You’re not required to disclose your recovery status unless you’re requesting specific accommodations. Many counselors in recovery choose to disclose selectively, weighing several factors:
- Workplace culture and supportiveness
- Nature of the job (safety-sensitive vs. non-safety-sensitive roles)
- Relationship with supervisors
- Need for schedule flexibility for recovery activities
- Potential impact on career advancement
Some workplaces celebrate recovery and view disclosure in a positive light. Others may still face a lingering stigma despite legal protections. You need to assess your specific situation and make an informed choice about what to share and with whom.
Washington State: Pathways and Programs
Washington State has made significant strides in reducing barriers for individuals in recovery to enter the substance abuse counseling field. If you’re in Washington, you have clearer pathways and more supportive policies than in many other states.
Washington’s Updated Regulations
Recent changes to Washington law (RCW 18.130.175 and RCW 43.43.84) specifically reduce barriers to licensure for substance use disorder professionals. The key changes:
- Applicants with one year in recovery aren’t required to enter a monitoring program
- Those with less than one year may be required to participate in monitoring only until achieving one year in recovery
- The focus has shifted toward competency and public safety rather than creating unnecessary barriers
This represents a significant improvement over previous policies that created additional hurdles for individuals in recovery to enter the field.
Washington Certification Pathways
Washington offers clear pathways for individuals at various stages of recovery and education. Always verify current requirements with the Washington State Department of Health, as regulations are updated periodically.
Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS)
This is your entry point if you’re in recovery and want to start working in the field quickly:
- Requires one or more years in recovery (self-attestation)
- 80-hour peer specialist training from Health Care Authority
- High school diploma or GED
- Focus on lived experience rather than academic credentials
Substance Use Disorder Professional Trainee (SUDPT)
This is an entry-level credential for those working toward full SUDP certification:
- Requires an associate degree or 60 credits, including 30 in SUD counseling
- Allows you to accumulate supervised hours while working
- Must work under the supervision of a fully credentialed SUDP
Substance Use Disorder Professional (SUDP)
This is the full professional credential:
- Requires a degree, supervised experience, and passing an exam
- No specific recovery status requirement
- Recovery experience neither needed nor prohibited
For comprehensive state-specific guidance, please explore our complete guide to becoming a substance abuse counselor in Washington.
Seattle-Area Training Programs
If you’re in the Seattle area, several colleges and universities offer programs that can help you pursue substance abuse counseling credentials:
Seattle Central College
- Chemical Dependency Specialist Certificate Program
- Prepares students for entry-level positions in addiction treatment
- Can be completed while working in the field
Edmonds College
- Addiction Studies Program (accredited)
- Offers both certificate and degree options
- Flexible scheduling for working students
Highline College
- Substance Use Disorder Professional program
- Meets Washington State educational requirements for SUDP credential
- Includes supervised practicum experience
Antioch University Seattle
- Graduate Certificate in Addiction Studies
- For those who already have a bachelor’s degree
- It can be applied toward a master’s degree if you continue
Seattle-Area Employment Opportunities
Seattle has a robust demand for addiction professionals across multiple settings. Employers actively hiring in the region include:
- Navos Mental Health Solutions
- Valley Cities Behavioral Health Care
- Therapeutic Health Services (THS)
- Community Psychiatric Clinic
- Seattle Indian Health Board
- Numerous private treatment facilities
- Sober living homes throughout the area
Many of these organizations offer positions at various credential levels, from peer support specialists to fully licensed clinical counselors.
Common Questions from People in Recovery
People considering this career path have recurring questions and concerns. Here are honest answers to the most frequently asked questions.
Do I have to disclose my recovery status to my employer?
Not unless you’re requesting specific accommodations or applying for peer support specialist positions that require lived experience. For professional counselor roles, you can choose whether to disclose your personal information. Consider your workplace culture and your comfort level.
What if I relapse while working in the field?
This depends on your employer’s policies and the circumstances. If relapse doesn’t affect your work performance and you seek help immediately, you may be protected under ADA and FMLA. However, some employers have zero-tolerance policies. Being honest with your supervisor and seeking support quickly is crucial.
Can I attend the same recovery meetings as my clients?
This creates a dual relationship that most ethics guidelines advise against. If you live in a small community where options are limited, discuss this with your supervisor. You may need to attend meetings at different times or locations to maintain professional boundaries.
How long should I wait after getting sober to enter the field?
Most professionals recommend waiting at least 1-2 years to ensure stable recovery before beginning training or employment in the addiction field. This allows time to develop solid recovery foundations and self-care practices that can withstand the stress of the work.
Will my criminal record prevent me from becoming a counselor?
A criminal record can be a barrier to licensure in some states, but many states now have more lenient policies, especially for convictions related to past substance use. Washington State’s recent reforms specifically aim to reduce these barriers. Each case is evaluated individually.
Do I need to have been an addict to be an effective addiction counselor?
No. Lived experience isn’t required to be an effective addiction counselor, though it can be helpful. Empathy, genuine connection, and clinical skills matter more than personal history. However, peer support specialist roles specifically require lived experience by definition.
How do I handle clients who ask if I’m in recovery?
Many counselors use a reflective response such as “Is it important to you if I am?” to explore why the question matters to the client. Some choose to answer honestly if asked directly, while others maintain boundaries around personal disclosure. Discuss your approach with your supervisor.
Is the work emotionally draining?
Yes. Many counselors report that addiction work is emotionally demanding. Challenges include high caseloads, witnessing relapse, managing complex cases, and dealing with inadequate resources. Strong self-care practices and regular supervision are essential for sustainability in this field.
Best Practices for Success
If you’re considering a career as a substance abuse counselor while in recovery, following these best practices can help you succeed while protecting both your recovery and your clients. For comprehensive career guidance across all credential levels, review our substance abuse counselor career guide.
Ensure Stable Personal Recovery First
Wait until you have at least 1-2 years of continuous sobriety and have developed strong recovery foundations before entering the field. This isn’t about following arbitrary rules. It’s about protecting yourself and the clients who will depend on you.
Maintain an Active Personal Recovery Program
Continue attending support groups, therapy, or other recovery activities throughout your career. Your personal recovery must remain the top priority. The moment your job becomes more important than your recovery, you’re at risk of losing both.
Develop Strong Boundaries
Learn to separate your personal recovery from your professional role. Avoid dual relationships where possible. Be thoughtful about self-disclosure. Know when to refer clients to other providers if the boundaries between you and them become blurred.
Prioritize Self-Care and Supervision
The work is emotionally demanding. Establish robust self-care practices, including regular clinical supervision, peer support, stress management techniques, and work-life balance. Don’t skip supervision because you’re “too busy.” That’s when you need it most.
Pursue Ongoing Education
Take advantage of continuing education opportunities to enhance your skills and stay current with best practices. Attend conferences, workshops, and trainings. The field evolves constantly, and you must adapt to it.
Consider Starting with Peer Support Roles
Begin your career as a peer support specialist to gain experience and determine if the field is right for you before committing to extensive education for professional credentials. This provides a lower-stakes opportunity to test the waters.
Be Prepared for Challenging Moments
Understand that you’ll witness relapse, struggle, and sometimes tragedy. Develop strategies for processing these experiences without letting them threaten your own recovery. Have a plan for who you’ll call and what you’ll do when things get tough.
Build a Support Network
Connect with other counselors in recovery. Join professional organizations that support your dual identity. Don’t try to do this alone. Having people who understand both your recovery and your professional challenges is invaluable.
Key Takeaways
- You can work as a substance abuse counselor while in recovery, but most programs require 1-2 years of continuous sobriety before starting.
- Peer support specialist roles are specifically designed for people with lived experience and offer the most accessible entry point.
- Professional counselor credentials (like Washington’s SUDP) don’t require recovery status but do require significant education and supervised experience.
- Working in recovery offers unique benefits, including an authentic connection with clients and reinforcement of your own recovery.
- Challenges include trigger exposure, boundary management, and increased burnout risk, which require exceptional self-care.
- You have legal protections under the ADA and the FMLA, but current illegal drug use removes those protections.
Ready to Explore Your Path to Becoming a Peer Support Specialist?
Learn everything you need to know about certification requirements, training programs, and career opportunities in our comprehensive guide to peer support specialist careers.
