Peer Support Specialist Program

With half of our employees being in recovery from substance use disorder, Addiction Recovery Care (ARC) leads the way when it comes to combining drug treatment and vocational training. The results lead to second-chance employment opportunities. We believe the solution to the nation’s workforce issues is lying dormant in the lives of those struggling with addiction or alcoholism.

ARC’s flagship vocational training program, the Peer Support Specialist Program (PSSP), has seen success rates of over 80 percent, with success being defined as living in recovery and being employed. The PSSA is a training program designed to teach ARC clients how to help others recover from substance use disorder. The program includes recovery, clinical practices, life skills, health and safety courses.

Students who have successfully completed the program with all certifications and have been in recovery for one year are eligible for employment as a Kentucky Peer Support Specialist with ARC or with any behavioral health agency that bills Medicaid for addiction treatment. Through a partnership, graduates are eligible to receive 28 quarter college credit hours to use toward furthering their education.

Creative Arts Peer Support Specialist Program

When completing an internship in the Creative Arts Peer Support Specialist Program, interns will have the opportunity to complete their Peer Support Specialist certification while incorporating electives in the arts such as theater, music, drawing, and painting. All of these skills can be used as a point of interest while leading peer support groups.