Recovery Support Specialist (RSS)

RSS 101 History and Core Functions (3.5)(3.5,0)

RSS 101 is the first in a series of three classroom experiences, and two Field Experiences. In this course we will examine the history of Recovery Support Specialists. We will also explore essential helping skills, advocacy, and mentoring. Finally, we will explore the mental health disorder, substance abuse disorder, and dual diagnosis treatment continuums. Special Note: Only individuals with lived experience as consumers of mental health, substance use disorder, or dual diagnoses services are eligible to take the State exam leading to Certification. (1.2) Proficiency Credit: Not Available Pass/No Credit: Not Available.

In-District Tuition/Fees: $472.5 (effective 2024/25 academic year)

In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.

Prerequisite: Admission into the Recovery Support Specialist Program

Semester(s) Offered: Fall and Spring

RSS 103 Professional Techniques (3.5)(3.5,0)

In this course, students will study various clinical components necessary to be an effective Recovery Support Specialist. Topics include Harm Reduction, Stages of Change and Motivational Interviewing, Trauma Informed Care, Cognitive Behavioral and Strength-Based Interventions, Behavioral Modification Techniques, Working with Families, and Working with Youth. Special Note: Only individuals with lived experience as consumers of mental health, substance use disorder, or dual diagnoses services are eligible to take the State exam leading to Certification. (1.2) Proficiency Credit: Not Available Pass/No Credit: Not Available.

In-District Tuition/Fees: $472.5 (effective 2024/25 academic year)

In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.

Prerequisite: Admission into the Recovery Support Specialist Program

Semester(s) Offered: Fall and Spring

RSS 105 Professional Responsibilities (3.5)(3.5,0)

In this course students will explore their professional responsibilities as Recovery Support Specialists; review relevant state statues, and study the Code of Ethics for Recovery Support Specialists. Self-care, recovery support strategies, and crisis intervention will also be presented. Lastly, preparations for Field Experience will be implemented. Special Note: Only individuals with a lived experience as consumers of mental health, substance use disorder, or dual diagnosis treatment may sit for the State of Illinois certification exam. (1.2) Proficiency Credit: Not Available Pass/No Credit: Not Available.

In-District Tuition/Fees: $472.5 (effective 2024/25 academic year)

In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.

Prerequisite: Admission into the Recovery Support Specialist Program

Semester(s) Offered: Fall and Spring

RSS 107 Field Experience I (3)(1,10)

In this course students will conduct a field experience in an Substance Use Disorder, and/or Mental Health Disorder and/or Dual Diagnosis treatment program. Students will begin to learn, in vivo, the profession of a Recovery Support Specialists. Special Note: Only individuals who have lived experience as consumers of a mental health disorder, substance use disorder, or dual diagnosis may sit for the state exam. (1.2) Proficiency Credit: Not Available Pass/No Credit: Not Available.

In-District Tuition/Fees: $405 (effective 2024/25 academic year)

In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.

Prerequisite: Consent of Program Staff. Grade of C or better in RSS 101, RSS 103, and RSS 105.

Semester(s) Offered: Fall, Spring and Summer

RSS 109 Field Experience II (3)(1,10)

In this course is a continuation of RSS: Field Experience I. Students conduct a field experience in an Substance Use Disorder, and/or Mental Health Disorder and/or Dual Diagnosis treatment program. Students will begin to learn, in vivo, the profession of a Recovery Support Specialists. Special Note: Only individuals who have lived experience as consumers of a mental health disorder, substance use disorder, or dual diagnosis may sit for the state exam. (1.2) Proficiency Credit: Not Available Pass/No Credit: Not Available.

In-District Tuition/Fees: $405 (effective 2024/25 academic year)

In-district tuition rates are subject to change based on Board approval.

Prerequisite: Consent of Program Staff.Grade of C or better in RSS 107.

Semester(s) Offered: Fall, Spring and Summer