What is the primary purpose of obtaining the CRSS credential?

The primary purpose of obtaining the CRSS credential is to ensure that professionals have adequate skills to support recovery. This credential signifies that an individual has met specific training and education requirements focused on recovery-oriented practices in mental health and substance use recovery. By obtaining the CRSS, professionals demonstrate their competency in providing support, empathy, and understanding to individuals seeking recovery, which ultimately facilitates a more effective and respectful recovery process.

This credential is not meant to establish authority over others; instead, it fosters collaboration and understanding among professionals in the field. It is also not primarily about enhancing personal financial gain or creating competition among service providers, but rather about establishing a standard of care that promotes quality support for individuals in their recovery journey. The focus is on equipping individuals with the essential skills necessary to assist others in achieving their goals related to recovery, which is foundational to the role of a recovery support specialist.