How to Become an Accredited
Recovery Coach of Canada
Recovery Coaches Canada is committed to elevating the standard and recognition of recovery coaching across the country. We champion excellence by supporting dedicated coaches who are making meaningful impacts every day.
To achieve these objectives, we've established the prestigious Accredited Recovery Coach of Canada (ARCC) designation, a mark of distinction and professionalism.
The ARCC accreditation process is rigorous, ensuring only the most skilled and committed recovery coaches earn this esteemed designation.
For detailed scoring guidelines, refer to our evaluation rubric here.
To find out more about Recovery Coaches Canada and our accreditation process please read our FAQ on the homepage.
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
Complete minimum 30-hour Recovery Coaching training course (ex. CCAR, ORCA, Still Here, IAPRC, Inner Start or RTIA)
Complete minimum 20-hours of Advanced Recovery Coach training (ex. CCAR, ORCA, Still Here, IAPRC, Inner Start or RTIA as available and approved; RCC reserves the right to evaluate courses)
Complete minimum 10-hour Recovery Coach Ethics course (currently available as Ethical Considerations for Recovery Coaches, through CCAR, Still Here, RTIA or others)
Upon providing certificates verifying these qualifications, applicants must submit a 20-to-30-minute recorded coaching session. A panel of three professional coaches will evaluate this recording according to a set of predefined criteria. Applicants achieving an 80% or higher score will proudly earn the ARCC designation.
FAQ
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ARCC stands for Accredited Recovery Coach of Canada. It is a national, peer-reviewed credential created by and for recovery coaches. The designation recognizes your experience, ethical commitment, and coaching competency within the Canadian recovery coaching landscape.
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You are eligible if you have completed recognized foundational recovery coach training, can demonstrate coaching competency, and have fulfilled the required experience and documentation criteria.
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The ARCC is grounded in peer-reviewed evaluation and real-world recovery coaching practice. Unlike many certifications that emphasize academic hours alone, the ARCC places equal value on demonstrated skill, ethical practice, and lived or shared experience. It is the only Canadian credential built entirely by recovery coaches.
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The process includes:
- Submitting proof of required training and experience
- Providing a recorded coaching demonstration
- Participating in a structured peer assessment
- Signing a commitment to ethical practice
- Paying the credentialing fee -
Applicants submit a 20–30 minute recorded coaching session with a client of their choosing. This recording is reviewed by a panel of experienced coaches who evaluate the applicant's use of core competencies and coaching presence.
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Yes. RCC offers guidance through email support, sample consent forms, video submission instructions, and access to a peer support group for applicants. You’re not alone—we want you to succeed.
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Once approved, you will receive a digital certificate and official recognition as an Accredited Recovery Coach of Canada (ARCC). You will also be listed in RCC’s public-facing directory, allowing prospective clients and organizations to find and contact you directly.
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Yes. The credential must be renewed every two years. Renewal includes submitting documentation of continued coaching practice, a record of professional development activities, and recommitment to the RCC Code of Ethics.
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The credentialing fee is $150 CAD. This fee helps support the peer-review process and credential administration. There are no additional fees unless re-submission is required.
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Absolutely. Once accredited, you are encouraged to use the ARCC designation in your email signature, business materials, and online profiles to demonstrate your professionalism and commitment to ethical recovery coaching.
