Bilingual Recovery Coach

MHA Inc.; Springfield (MA); On-site; USD 42,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

MHA Inc. is seeking a Bilingual Recovery Coach to support individuals in need of substance use services in Springfield, MA. This role involves sharing personal recovery experiences, helping individuals set goals, and advocating for them in treatment settings.

The ideal candidate will have completed the Recovery Coach Academy, possess lived experience with recovery, and demonstrate the ability to engage effectively with a diverse community. A valid driver's license and a cheerful personality are essential.

Qualifications

• Completed the Recovery Coach Academy and hold a certification.
• Lived experience with psychiatric diagnosis, substance use, or trauma.
• Prior experience in advocacy or peer support is preferred.

Responsibilities

• Share personal recovery journey to build trust and inspire hope.
• Help individuals articulate their recovery goals and build confidence.
• Provide peer support during treatment planning and transitions.

Skills

Advocacy

Peer support

Crisis management

Community engagement

Culturally responsive support

Education

High school diploma or equivalent (GED)

Certified Recovery Coach

Job description

Position Summary

Mental Health Association, Inc. is hiring for a Bilingual Recovery Coach. The Recovery Coach supports individuals in need of substance use services to live independently in the community. They work within the Agency’s team model, establishing open communication, support, and accountability among co-workers in accordance with MHA’s Core Values (Respect, Integrity, and Compassion), policies, practices, program funding and applicable regulatory agency guidelines. The Recovery Coach provides a unique perspective and related skills to the integrated treatment team, including confidence and experience in the recovery process. They communicate this perspective to individuals to better advocate for them in the formulation of individualized action plans and the development of programs and services.

Pay Rate: $21 an hour

Key Responsibilities

• Share personal recovery journey to build trust and inspire hope.
• Help individuals articulate their recovery goals and build confidence.
• Serve as an advocate for individuals in treatment and community settings.
• Provide peer support during treatment planning, hospitalizations, and transitions.
• Model self-care, self-advocacy, and healthy decision‑making.
• Facilitate access to community‑based peer resources, support groups, and events.
• Provide information and guidance on housing, benefits, and social supports.
• Offer limited practical support (e.g., transportation) based on participant needs.
• Facilitate mutual support/self‑help groups and encourage leadership development.
• Stay current on recovery‑oriented practices and community resources.
• Recognize and report participant crises, safety concerns, or critical incidents.
• Complete required documentation, including timesheets and call logs.
• Promote culturally responsive, strengths‑based support in all interactions.

About BestLife – Emotional Health & Wellness

The BestLife Emotional Health & Wellness Center provides compassionate, person‑centered care for individuals, families, and couples facing mental health and substance use challenges. Using evidence‑based approaches, our team supports both short‑term needs and long‑term recovery through services such as assessments, individual, group, family, and couples therapy, substance use and co‑occurring disorder treatment, medication management, case coordination, and recovery support. Care is delivered by licensed clinicians and overseen by a board‑certified psychiatrist, ensuring high‑quality, supportive treatment every step of the way.

Requirements

• Must have completed the Recovery Coach Academy (Certified Recovery Coach)
• Lived experience with psychiatric diagnosis, extreme states, substance use, and/or trauma
• Prior experience in advocacy or peer support role preferred
• High school diploma or equivalent (GED)
• Valid driver’s license, sufficient automobile insurance, acceptable driving record, and a safe reliable vehicle during working hours
• Demonstrated ability to adapt to the changing needs of the program participants.
• Cheerful, outward‑going personality
• Demonstrates ability to engage and build respectful and collaborative relationships
• Must be at least 21 years old
• Performs well under stress and in the event of a crisis
• Familiarity with local community resource

Equal Opportunity Statement

The Mental Health Association is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.