Become a certified recovery specialist

We provide the highest standard of cutting-edge, ethical, trauma- and research-informed training and bring innovative treatment modalities that support sustainable long-term recovery for individuals and families.

This is NEXT LEVEL training for advanced peer recovery as our focus is not only on individual recovery, but also on how to collaborate with families, professionals and community members. 

Integrated Excellence

Due to the high rate of relapse occurring shortly after discharge from treatment and research findings identifying trauma and brain impairment as triggers for relapse, the need for Recovery Specialists is growing. 

Led By Top Professionals In The Behavioral Health Field

Next Level Recovery Training

A Certified Recovery Specialist is trained in practical application, personal characteristics, ethical standards, legal issues, and best practices for individuals and families of those struggling with substance use disorder, addiction or behavioral and/or mental health challenges.

Universal Skills

As an IRI Certified Recovery Specialist, you will have the opportunity to make a huge difference in your own life, organization or community. By learning and practicing the skills, you will give others the opportunity to empower themselves. 

Learn about our history>>

The Team

In 2015, the International Recovery Institute (IRI) was established by two well known and highly respected professionals who have pioneered Recovery Coaches, Continuing Care, and the involvement of families: Nanette Zumwalt CADC, CCJP, CIP of Hired Power, and Judith Landau MD, DPM, LMFT, CFLE, CIP, CAI,CRS, of ARISE® Network.

Meet the team>>

Why Become a Recovery Specialist

The profession of Recovery Specialist has seen tremendous growth since the pioneering company Hired Power was founded in 2002 to the presence of over 29 companies in 2015.

Learn more about the benefits of becoming a Certified Recovery Specialist>>

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Establish Credibility with Certification

An IRI Certified Recovery Specialist will complete all educational, experiential, and clinical components of the IRI curriculum. Take your skills to a professional level with a nationally accredited certificate!

IRI is a NAADAC Approved Education Provider.
IRI is a CCAPP Approved Education Provider.

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Help others and Make a Difference

Not only do you get to help those struggling with addiction every day, but you also get to see the difference you make. When these patients begin to learn that there’s more to life than these substances, you know you helped them with that. A primary goal of this training is to change the prevailing paradigm of addiction and mental illness, providing a new language that removes blame, shame, guilt and stigma, changing the perspective on the condition and the role and relevance of families.

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Broaden your Education

Recovery Specialist training awards students with Continuing Education Hours in Ethics and Recovery Specialist Theory and Practice. Earn CEUs from all of our courses!
Continuing education unit credits can positively impact your career and also have a profound impact on your personal growth journey.

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A Certification that Fits your Lifestyle

A Recovery Specialist can provide services to clients and families within a treatment setting, in a client's home, in the community, or while traveling. A skill that goes where you go! Once certified, you can find work as a: Peer Recovery Specialist, Sober Coach, Sober Companion, Personal Recovery Assistant, Transport (Safe Passage), Family Support Specialist, Case Manager, and more!

What our students are saying

Students who have completed our program have gone on to have successful careers in the recovery specialist field

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