Recovery is a process of change through which individuals improve their health and wellness, live a self-directed life and strive to reach their full potential.

What is a Recovery Coach?

A personal guide and mentor for people seeking  or in recovery. The Recovery Coach helps to remove barriers and obstacles, and links the recovering person to the recovery community.

In May 2013, Idaho began training Recovery Coaches and Recovery Coach trainers. Planning for additional trainings is ongoing. View the Recovery Coaching calendar and Training Materials on this page for additional training information.

What is required to become a Recovery Coach?

• 30 hours of training offered by IDHW.
• A willingness to help and serve.
• It is encouraged that Recovery Coaches are people in recovery from alcohol or substance abuse.

Roles of a Recovery Coach

• Mentor
• Ally
• Role Model
• Motivator
• Problem Solver
• Resource Broker
• Advocate
• Community Organizer

Who can be coached?

Adults and transitional aged youth with a chronic substance use disorder and/or substance use problem.

Expected Outcomes

• Success and quick turn‐around in re‐engaging the individual in treatment and/or recovery support following any episodes of drug or alcohol use or lapses in recovery.
• Decrease in substance use or cessation of returning to use.
• Decreased criminal justice involvement.
• Increased optimism that recovery is possible.
• Increased participation in community activities, natural supports, families.

E-mail RecoveryCoaching@dhw.idaho.gov or call (208) 332-7238.

Macklemore talks about how his battle with drug abuse affected his creativity and his relationships, and how he got on the road to recovery.