Ethical Considerations for Recovery Coaches

Ethical Considerations for Recovery Coaches is a 16-hour interactive training developed by the Connecticut Community for Addiction Recovery (CCAR). Designed for new and experienced peer recovery coaches, this training explores the unique ethical challenges faced in recovery support services and equips participants with the knowledge and tools to navigate complex situations with integrity and care. Through group discussions, case studies, and applied learning, participants will engage in critical thinking about boundaries, decision-making, confidentiality, and the responsibilities that come with lived experience and peer-based roles. This course reinforces CCAR’s foundational recovery values and prepares recovery coaches to practice ethically and responsibly in both paid and volunteer roles, across diverse settings and recovery pathways.

Learning Objectives

• Define ethics and explain their relevance to peer-based recovery coaching.
• Explore assumptions and myths about ethical behavior in the recovery coach role.
• Differentiate between recovery coaching and clinical roles to stay in your lane.
• Apply a peer-based model for ethical decision-making in real-world scenarios.
• Understand the legal issues that may affect recovery coaches, including HIPAA and 42 CFR Part 2.
• Examine the role of values such as dignity, respect, hope, autonomy, and service in ethical peer support.
• Learn how to recognize and navigate boundary issues, dual relationships, and role clarity.
• Discuss the ethical obligations of self-care and how to develop a personal recovery wellness plan.
• Understand the importance and structure of a code of ethics in peer recovery support.
• Practice ethical communication and reflection through interactive role play and group work.