National research has associated peer recovery support services with reductions in the recurrence of substance use, improved treatment engagement and retention, higher individual satisfactions, and reductions in emergency service utilization and hospitalizations. Peer support encompasses a range of activities and interactions between people whom share similar experiences of being diagnosed with substance use and/or mental health disorders. Peer recovery support offers a level of acceptance, understanding, and validation not found in many other professional relationships.
A Certified Recovery Specialist (CRS) is a trained professional who uses their own lived experience of recovery from substance use and/or mental health challenges to support others on their recovery journey.
CRSs focus on recovery support, not clinical treatment. Their role is built on connection, hope, and practical guidance rather than diagnosis or therapy.
A CRS supports individuals by:
-
Providing recovery support based on shared lived experience
-
Building trusting, non-judgmental relationships
-
Helping people identify recovery goals and personal strengths
-
Supporting navigation of systems (treatment, housing, benefits, employment, courts, etc.)
-
Encouraging self-advocacy and empowerment
-
Promoting long-term recovery, wellness, and stability
-
Modeling recovery-oriented behaviors and healthy coping strategies
-
Offering support during transitions, such as reentry, discharge, or relapse prevention
The Certified Recovery Specialist will work within the Montgomery County Supervision Services to engage individuals under supervision with Pretrial Services, Adult Probation and Parole, and/or Treatment Courts who may benefit from recovery support services.
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
-
Certified as Recovery Specialist through the Pennsylvania Certification Board
-
Undergo thorough pre-employment background investigation including satisfactory physical examination and drug screen
-
Demonstrated sustained recovery history, with three years preferred.
-
Prior work experience as a Certified Recovery Specialist (CRS), with one year of experience preferred.
-
Possess a valid driver's license
-
Knowledge of department policy and procedures
-
Excellent oral and written communication skills
-
Organizational skills
-
Knowledge of mental health issues and treatment strategies
-
Knowledge of treatment programs and government agencies
-
Knowledge of the criminal justice system
The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions:
While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to stand; walk; sit; and talk and hear. The employee is occasionally required to use hands to finger, handle or feel objects, tools or controls; reach with hands or arms; and stoop, kneel, crouch or crawl. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities required by this job include close vision, distance vision, color vision and depth perception.
