College Credit for Life Experience – How to Turn Your Substance Use Recovery Journey Into College Credit

Your journey through addiction and recovery has taught you things no textbook ever could. The late nights in support groups, the hard-won insights about human behavior, the deep understanding of what it takes to rebuild a life—all of this represents real knowledge. Increasingly, colleges are recognizing that this experiential learning can count toward your substance abuse counseling degree.

If you’re in recovery and considering a career helping others find their way out of addiction, you might be able to convert your lived experience into college credits through Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) programs. This can mean completing your degree faster, spending less money, and entering the field where you can make a difference sooner.

What Are Prior Learning Assessment Credits?

Prior Learning Assessment, also known as experiential learning credit or life experience credit, is a process colleges use to evaluate and award academic credit for learning that occurs outside the traditional classroom. According to the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL), over 2,400 colleges nationwide offer some form of PLA, recognizing that adults bring valuable knowledge from work, military service, volunteer activities, and yes, personal recovery experiences.

This isn’t about getting credit just for having experiences. It’s about demonstrating that those experiences resulted in college-level learning that aligns with specific course objectives.

For people in recovery, this often includes:

• Knowledge gained through intensive outpatient programs (IOP) or residential treatment
• Skills developed as a peer support worker or sponsor
• Understanding of addiction science learned through recovery education programs
• Group facilitation experience from leading or participating in support groups
• Crisis intervention skills developed through lived experience

Important Note: Not all schools offer PLA credits, and those that do have varying policies about how many credits you can earn this way. Most cap it at 25-30% of your total degree requirements. Always verify a school’s PLA policy before enrolling. Confirm with your target school whether PLA credits will apply toward your intended major or transfer plan, as some programs accept PLA only for electives or general education requirements.

How Prior Learning Assessment Works for Addiction Counseling Students

The PLA process typically follows a structured evaluation that ensures your learning meets academic standards. Here’s what to expect:

Step	What’s Involved	Typical Timeline
1. Initial Assessment	Meet with the PLA advisor to discuss your experiences and potential credit areas	1-2 weeks
2. Portfolio Development	Create detailed documentation of your learning experiences	4-8 weeks
3. Credit Evaluation	Faculty review your portfolio against the course objectives	2-4 weeks
4. Credit Award	Receive transcript notation for approved credits	1-2 weeks

Maria Rodriguez, a licensed addiction counselor in California who earned 24 PLA credits, shares: “The portfolio process made me realize how much I’d actually learned through my own recovery and sponsoring others. I documented three years of leading NA meetings, my peer support certification, and the intensive family therapy I’d been through. It all counted.”

What Recovery Experiences Can Translate to College Credit?

Not all life experiences qualify for academic credit; however, many aspects of recovery align with the coursework in substance abuse counseling. Here’s what typically qualifies:

Direct Treatment Experience

If you’ve been through formal treatment programs, you’ve likely covered material that overlaps with introductory counseling courses. Document any:

• Psychoeducation sessions on addiction science and neurobiology
• Group therapy participation and observations of therapeutic techniques
• Individual counseling experiences (from the client perspective, showing understanding of the counseling process)
• Family therapy or family education programs demonstrating systems theory
• Relapse prevention planning and cognitive-behavioral intervention implementation

Peer Support and Sponsorship

Working with others in recovery demonstrates practical counseling skills that align with foundational courses. Credits might be available for:

• Completing formal peer support specialist training or certification programs
• Sponsoring others in 12-step programs with documentation of duration and number of sponsees
• Leading support group meetings (with letters from program coordinators)
• Mentoring newcomers in recovery with specific outcomes documented
• Facilitating recovery workshops or educational sessions in community settings

Professional Development in Recovery

Many people in recovery pursue certifications and training that can count toward degree requirements:

• Recovery coach certifications through organizations like Connecticut Community for Addiction Recovery (CCAR)
• SMART Recovery facilitator training with documented facilitation hours
• Mental Health First Aid certification
• Narcan/overdose prevention training and community education delivery
• Trauma-informed care workshops from recognized providers

Building Your Prior Learning Portfolio

The key to earning credit for your recovery experience is documentation. Your portfolio should not only showcase your accomplishments but also demonstrate what you learned and how it relates to your academic coursework. Here’s how to build a strong portfolio:

1. Create a Learning Narrative

Write a detailed essay for each area where you’re seeking credit. Include:

• What specific knowledge did you gain (connect to theories, concepts, and competencies)
• How do you apply this knowledge in practice with concrete examples
• How it relates to particular course objectives (review syllabi from your target school)
• Reflection on how the experience changed your understanding and worldview

2. Gather Supporting Documentation

Collect evidence that supports your learning claims:

• Certificates from recovery programs, treatment facilities, or formal training courses
• Letters from counselors, clinical supervisors, sponsors, or program directors
• Documentation of volunteer hours in recovery settings with specific duties outlined
• Written materials you’ve created (recovery plans, group curricula, psychoeducational handouts)
• Performance evaluations from recovery-related work or volunteer positions

3. Map Experience to Course Outcomes

Research the specific courses you’re hoping to earn credit for and explicitly connect your learning to their objectives. For example:

Your Experience	Potential Course Credit	Learning Demonstrated
90 days in residential treatment	Introduction to Addiction Studies	Understanding of addiction models, treatment approaches, and recovery stages
2 years as a sponsor in AA	Fundamentals of Counseling	Active listening, boundary setting, motivational techniques
Peer support specialist certification	Group Counseling Methods	Group dynamics, facilitation skills, and ethical considerations

Schools Known for Strong PLA Programs in Addiction Studies

While many schools offer some form of prior learning assessment, these institutions are particularly known for working with students in recovery and have established protocols for evaluating addiction-related learning:

• Empire State College (SUNY) – Extensive PLA program with specific pathways for addiction counseling students and experienced faculty evaluators in human services
• Thomas Edison State University – Accepts up to 90 credits through various PLA methods, including portfolio assessment and professional training evaluation
• Charter Oak State College – Connecticut’s public online college with generous PLA policies and recognition of recovery coach certifications
• Excelsior College – Offers portfolio assessment specifically for human services and counseling programs with detailed evaluation rubrics
• University of Memphis – Has specific PLA protocols for students with addiction/recovery experience in their Professional Studies programs

Pro Tip: Look for schools that are part of collegiate recovery programs (CRPs) or have dedicated recovery support services. These institutions often have more experience evaluating recovery-related learning for credit.

The Financial Impact: How PLA Credits Save Money

Let’s look at the real numbers. If you can earn 15-30 credits through PLA (a typical range for students with substantial recovery experience), here’s what you might save:

School Type	Average Cost Per Credit	Savings for 15 Credits	Savings for 30 Credits
Community College	$150	$2,250	$4,500
Public University (in-state)	$350	$5,250	$10,500
Private University	$1,200	$18,000	$36,000

Most schools charge a PLA assessment fee (typically $100-500 per portfolio review), but the savings still far exceed the costs. Beyond the financial impact, earning PLA credits means you can complete your degree in 12-18 months instead of 3-4 years, allowing you to enter the field and start helping others sooner.

Challenges and Limitations to Consider

While PLA can be a game-changer, it’s essential to understand the limitations:

Not All Schools Accept PLA Credits

Some institutions, particularly highly competitive programs, don’t offer prior learning assessment at all. Always check before applying. The Council for Adult and Experiential Learning maintains resources to help you identify PLA-friendly institutions.

Credits May Not Transfer

PLA credits earned at one institution may not be transferable to another. If you plan to start at a community college and transfer to a four-year school, verify the transfer policy beforehand. Get it in writing.

State Licensing Requirements Vary

Check your state’s specific requirements for licensing as a substance abuse counselor. Some states have restrictions on the number of PLA credits that can be counted toward licensure eligibility. Since regulations change frequently, check your state’s counselor certification board for the most up-to-date PLA policies. For example:

• California: The Department of Health Care Services accepts PLA credits from accredited institutions, but may require additional documentation
• Texas: The Department of State Health Services has specific coursework requirements that PLA must directly address
• New York: OASAS recognizes experiential learning but requires demonstration of competency alignment

Always verify requirements with your state’s certification board before pursuing PLA credits.

The Portfolio Process Takes Time

Developing a comprehensive portfolio can take 2-3 months. Factor this into your timeline for starting school. Many students work on portfolios while completing other courses to maximize efficiency.

Alternative Paths: When PLA Isn’t Available

If prior learning assessment isn’t an option at your chosen school, consider these alternatives:

• CLEP Exams: Test out of general education requirements (psychology, sociology, English composition)
• Accelerated Programs: Complete your degree faster through intensive scheduling with online counseling programs
• Competency-Based Programs: Move through coursework at your own pace, advancing as soon as you demonstrate mastery
• Bridge Programs: Explicitly designed for peer support specialists moving into counseling roles, often with credit for certification

Making the Most of Your Recovery Experience in School

Whether or not you earn PLA credits, your recovery experience is an asset in substance abuse counseling programs. Here’s how to leverage it:

• In Class Discussions: Share insights that connect theory to real-world recovery (while maintaining appropriate boundaries)
• For Assignments: Draw on personal examples to illustrate concepts and demonstrate deeper understanding
• During Internships, your lived experience helps you connect with clients authentically and build rapport quickly
• In job interviews, your recovery story, shared appropriately, demonstrates a deep understanding of the field and genuine passion.

James Thompson, now a clinical director at a treatment center in Colorado, reflects: “My recovery gave me credibility with clients that no degree alone could provide. Combined with professional training, it makes me a more effective counselor.”

Next Steps: Starting Your Journey from Recovery to Counselor

Ready to explore turning your recovery experience into college credit? Here’s your action plan:

1. Research Schools: Look for institutions with strong PLA programs and recovery support services using CAEL’s resources
2. Document Everything: Start gathering certificates, letters, and other documentation now
3. Connect with Advisors: Reach out to PLA coordinators at schools you’re considering
4. Prepare Your Narrative: Begin writing about your learning experiences with specific examples
5. Consider Your Full Path: Review complete requirements for becoming a counselor in your state

Remember Your “Why”

Your recovery journey has given you something textbooks can’t teach: the deep, personal understanding of what it takes to overcome addiction. That experience, combined with professional education, can make you exactly the kind of counselor someone needs when they’re ready to change their life. The credits are just a bonus—your real value is in the wisdom you’ve earned through living.

Resources for Recovery-to-Counselor Pathways

To help you on your journey, here are additional resources:

• CAEL (Council for Adult and Experiential Learning): National organization promoting PLA best practices and maintaining school databases
• LearningCounts.org: Online portfolio development courses specifically for PLA with templates and examples
• Your State Certification Board: Contact them directly about PLA credit acceptance for licensure (links in state-specific sections above)
• Association of Recovery in Higher Education: Find collegiate recovery programs and recovery-friendly schools

Your path from recovery to counseling represents hope for countless others who will follow in your footsteps. By earning credit for your experiential learning, you’re not just saving time and money—you’re honoring the education that comes from lived experience and preparing to pass that wisdom forward to those who need it most.

Want to learn more about specific degree programs that welcome students in recovery? Explore our guides to online substance abuse counseling degrees and build on the degrees you already have. Your journey has prepared you for this moment—now it’s time to take the next step.

Frequently Asked Questions About Recovery Experience and College Credit

Can I really get college credit just for being in recovery?

Not exactly. You can’t get credit simply for being in recovery, but you can potentially earn credit for the learning that occurred during your recovery journey. Prior Learning Assessment (PLA) evaluates what you learned through recovery experiences—such as understanding addiction science, developing counseling skills, or completing formal training programs—and determines if that learning is equivalent to college coursework. You’ll need to document and demonstrate this learning through a portfolio process that’s evaluated by faculty members who ensure it meets academic standards.

How many college credits can I earn through my recovery experience?

Most colleges that offer Prior Learning Assessment cap credits at 25-30% of your total degree requirements. For a typical 120-credit bachelor’s degree, this means potentially earning 30 to 36 credits. The actual number depends on several factors, including your specific experiences, the extent to which you document your learning, the strength of your portfolio, and your school’s policies and procedures. Students with extensive documented expertise (such as peer support certifications, years of sponsorship, formal recovery training, and treatment program completion) typically earn 15-30 credits. Some earn 6-12 credits, while those with comprehensive documentation may earn the maximum allowed.

Will PLA credits from my recovery experience count toward state licensing requirements?

This varies significantly by state. Some state licensing boards fully accept PLA credits, provided they’re from an accredited institution, while others have specific restrictions. For example, some states may not count PLA credits toward core counseling courses but will accept them for electives. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) provides general guidance, but each state board makes final determinations. Before pursuing PLA credits, contact your state’s substance abuse counselor certification board to verify its specific policies and requirements. Getting this information in writing is strongly recommended.

Do I need to be completely abstinent to earn credits for recovery experience?

While schools typically do not require proof of current abstinence for PLA credits, the learning you’re documenting usually comes from active recovery experiences. More importantly, most states require substance abuse counselors to have a specific period of continuous sobriety (often 2-3 years) before licensure. Additionally, many counseling programs have codes of conduct that address substance use. It’s best to be honest with academic advisors about your recovery status and understand both your school’s and state’s requirements. Many programs view ongoing recovery as an asset when properly disclosed.

How much does Prior Learning Assessment cost?

PLA fees vary widely but typically range from $100 to $500 per portfolio assessment. Some schools charge a fee per credit awarded (usually 25-50% of the regular tuition), while others have a flat fee. Additional costs may include portfolio development courses ($200-$500), transcript evaluation fees ($50-$150), and documentation costs such as obtaining official letters or certificates ($0-$100). Despite these fees, PLA generally saves a significant amount of money compared to taking traditional courses. For example, a $300 portfolio fee to earn 24 credits worth $8,400 at standard tuition rates results in net savings of $8,100. Always ask about total PLA costs upfront and factor them into your education budget.

What if my school doesn’t offer Prior Learning Assessment?

If your preferred school doesn’t offer PLA, you have several options: Consider starting at a community college that does offer PLA, then transferring those credits. Look into CLEP or DSST exams to test out of general education requirements (psychology, sociology, human development). Explore competency-based education programs that let you move quickly through material you already know. Check if the school offers “challenge exams” for specific courses where you demonstrate mastery. Consider online programs that tend to have more flexible PLA policies. Remember, even without formal credit, your recovery experience remains valuable in your education and future career.

Is my recovery story protected by privacy laws when applying for PLA credits?

Your educational records, including PLA portfolios, are protected under the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA). The information you choose to share in your portfolio becomes part of your academic record, but it’s kept confidential. Faculty evaluators will see this information, but confidentiality requirements and professional ethics prevent them from disclosing it. You control what details to include in your portfolio—focus on learning outcomes rather than personal information. Some students choose to speak generally about “experience with addiction treatment” rather than specifying their own recovery. Consult with your PLA advisor about privacy concerns and how to frame your narrative professionally.

Can I get credit for 12-step sponsorship or peer support work?

Potentially, yes. Many schools award credits for documented peer support experience, especially if you’ve completed formal peer support specialist training or certification. For 12-step sponsorship, the key is demonstrating college-level learning outcomes, including an understanding of behavior change theories, the development of active listening and motivational interviewing skills, knowledge of group dynamics and support systems, ethical decision-making in helping relationships, and the application of recovery principles. You’ll need to articulate what you learned through frameworks and concepts, not just what you did. Provide supporting documentation where possible, such as letters from 12-step group secretaries, documentation of meeting attendance, or certificates from 12-step workshops you’ve completed.

What’s the difference between PLA credits and transfer credits?

Transfer credits come from courses you’ve completed at other accredited institutions and typically transfer more easily between schools. A specific institution awards PLA credits for experiential learning, which may not be transferable to different schools. Key differences include transferability (transfer credits usually move between schools while PLA credits often don’t), GPA impact (transfer credits usually don’t affect GPA while PLA credits typically are pass/fail), documentation (transfer credits require transcripts while PLA requires portfolios), and cost (transfer credits are already paid for while PLA requires assessment fees). If you plan to transfer schools later, ask about PLA credit transferability upfront and get transfer agreements in writing before investing time and money in the portfolio process.

How do I know if a school’s PLA program is legitimate?

Legitimate PLA programs have several key characteristics: The school must be regionally or nationally accredited (verify through the Council for Higher Education Accreditation). They have clear written policies about credit limits, fees, and evaluation criteria. Subject matter experts (faculty with expertise in the field) evaluate portfolios, not just administrators. Many follow Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL) standards. They provide transparent processes with clear timelines and appeals procedures. Red flags include promises of “instant degrees,” no evaluation process required, credits awarded for experience without demonstrating learning, or unusually low costs that seem too good to be true. Always verify that credits will count toward your state licensing requirements before enrolling.

Should I mention my recovery in regular college applications if I’m not seeking PLA credits?

This is a personal decision with no single correct answer. Disclosing recovery in college applications can demonstrate resilience, personal growth, and motivation for pursuing a career in the helping professions. Schools with collegiate recovery programs often view recovery experience positively. Substance abuse counseling programs frequently value lived experience as it brings authenticity to clinical work. Focus on growth and learning rather than past struggles if you choose to share. Remember that you’re not obligated to disclose protected health information. Consider these factors: Does the school have a culture that supports recovery? Will disclosure strengthen your application by showing your commitment to the field? Can you frame it as a strength that enhances your perspective? If you do share your story, connect it clearly to your academic and career goals. Many successful counselors have found that thoughtful disclosure helped their applications stand out and led to supportive educational experiences.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as academic advising or a guarantee of credit approval. Prior Learning Assessment policies vary significantly between institutions and states, and regulations are subject to frequent changes. Always consult directly with schools and state licensing boards for current requirements and policies before making enrollment decisions. Individual results may vary based on specific experiences, documentation quality, and institutional standards. This content was last verified in November 2025.