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Steps to Becoming a Certified Recovery Coach Professional (CRCP)

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Certification pathway

How to Become a CRCP

Our certification pathway is designed to build the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to become effective Certified Recovery Coach Professionals (CRCPs). Each course builds on the last, supporting personal and professional growth while helping participants meet the requirements for the CRCP designation.

Our trainings are supported by the Government of Alberta and the Government Saskatchewan

These partnerships help expand access to ethical, high-quality Recovery Coach training, certification, and professional development opportunities.

The Preliminary Step

Complete Your

Vulnerable Sector Check

This step must be initiated before training.

Before you can register for training, you must complete a Vulnerable Sector Check. This is a required part of our enrollment process to ensure safety and accountability in all training spaces.

You can request your Vulnerable Sector Check by:

1. Applying online through the links below:

2. Applying in person through your local police service.

  • Be sure to bring government-issued ID and allow for processing time.

Important Notes:

  • After submitting your request, whether online or in person, please send a copy of your full detailed proof of purchase to: training@rcacanada.ca
  • We do not need the completed check before training starts, but the process must be initiated and the receipt submitted to training@rcacanada.ca before moving forward with registration.

RCAC retains sole and absolute discretion in determining eligibility to attend training based on the results of a Vulnerable Sector Check. This determination may consider factors including, but not limited to, the nature and severity of any charges or convictions, and the length of time elapsed since the most recent charge or conviction.

The Certification Pathway

Foundations

Step 1

Foundations of Recovery Coaching: 30-hour in person course

This foundations course is where you’ll build the knowledge, skills, and mindset needed to support recovery in a participant-centered, ethical, and practical way.

Important Notes:

  • 100% attendance is mandatory to meet Alberta Government funding requirements and to move forward in the certification pathway.
  • Be prepared to fully engage. This training asks for your attention, reflection, participation, and willingness to step into vulnerable, challenging conversations.
  • You will leave this training with a stronger understanding of recovery, professional boundaries, participant-led support, and practical recovery coaching tools.
  • This course must be completed before you can move forward to Ethical Considerations, Professionalism, the Advanced Coaching Development Program, and the Panel Interview.
Click here to register

Ethics

Step 2

Ethical Considerations in Recovery Coaching: 16-hour online course

This course challenges you to think critically about ethical decision-making, participant autonomy, and the complexities of supporting recovery in real-world settings.

Important Notes:

  • 100% attendance is required to receive your certificate of completion.
  • Topics include ethical responsibilities, managing dual relationships, informed consent, confidentiality, participant rights, navigating role clarity, and the impact of bias and stigma in the helping relationship.
  • You will leave this course better equipped to navigate ethical dilemmas with courage, thoughtfulness, and participant-centered care.
  • Completion of this course is a required step in continuing through the certification pathway.
Click here to register

Professionalism

Step 3

Professionalism in Recovery Coaching: 12-hour online course

This training deepens your understanding of professional conduct, ethical practices, and the lived experience of professionalism in recovery support work.

Important Notes:

  • 100% attendance is required to receive your certificate of completion.
  • This course will explore topics such as professional boundaries, dual relationships, social media conduct, confidentiality, and the role of lived experience in maintaining professionalism.
  • You will leave this training with a clearer understanding of how to represent yourself, your organization, and the Recovery Coaching field with integrity, humility, and accountability.
  • Completion of this course is mandatory to continue along the certification pathway.
Click here to register

ACDP

Step 4

Advanced Coaching Development Program: 24-hour online course

The Advanced Coaching Development Program (ACDP) is a skill-building series designed for Recovery Coaches who are ready to take the next step in their practice. Built for those who have completed the foundational training (steps 3-5), this program offers a structured opportunity to deepen skills, explore complex coaching moments, and continue building confidence in the field.

Important Notes:

  • 100% attendance is required to receive your certificate of completion.
  • Facilitated by experienced Certified Recovery Coach Professionals, each session introduces new tools, coaching styles, and real-time feedback to strengthen your approach.
  • You will leave this training with new insights, renewed confidence, and a stronger connection to a supportive network committed to ongoing growth and professional development.
  • Completion of this course is mandatory to continue along the certification pathway.
Click here to register

Panel

Step 5

Panel Interview: 60-minutes online

The panel interview is a formal assessment that confirms your readiness to support others as a Certified Recovery Coach Professional (CRCP) with integrity, confidence, and care.

You will be asked to demonstrate your understanding, reflect on your growth, and apply what you have learned throughout your training.

Important Notes:

  • The panel consists of experienced CRCPs and leaders who understand the work and the realities of supporting recovery.
  • You will be guided through various questions and scenarios designed to demonstrate your understanding and application of key concepts including ethics, professionalism, boundaries, recovery-oriented support, and participant autonomy.
  • The panel is designed to honour your journey, highlight your growth, and affirm your readiness.

Successful completion of the panel interview finalizes your Recovery Coach certification pathway and confirms your eligibility for designation as a CRCP.

Click here to register