From Georgia Council on Substance Abuse:

What is CARES?

CERTIFIED ADDICTION RECOVERY EMPOWERMENT SPECIALIST (CARES) VISION We envision a recovery-oriented system of care that supports self-directed pathways to recovery by building on the strengths and resilience of individuals, families and communities. MISSION The mission of Georgia CARES is to promote long-term recovery from substance use disorders by providing experienced peer support and advocating for self-directed care. WHAT The Certified Addiction Recovery Empowerment Specialist (CARES) is a training program parallel to the mental health certified peer specialist program and began in September, 2010, through a contract with the Department of Behavioral Health & Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD). This training program is part of an ongoing effort to create a recovery-oriented system of care where peer-based recovery support is used as a fundamental part of community-based services that enhance the treatment and recovery experience. This is a 40-hour (one-week) training course, that is followed by continuing support of CARES Faculty, trained peers & supervisors. WHO People in recovery who are interested in becoming a CARES must apply through the Georgia Council on Substance Abuse and be approved by the CARES Selection Subcommittee.

CARES Academy Workshops

The cornerstone of a recovery-oriented system of care is (ROSC) is a vibrant, well-trained peer workforce. The CARES/ROSC Workshop introduces concepts of peer recovery support to members of the recovery community, and provides them with assistance in preparing for the written and interview portions of the CARES Academy application process.

February Workshops*:

  • February 2, Decatur
  • February 8, Morrow
  • February 10, Lawrenceville
  • February 15, Atlanta
  • February 17, Gainesville

Register here for a CARES Academy Workshop

*Time and location information is on the registration page.

CARES Academy 28 April 16-20, 2018

March 5th – Applications due to the Georgia Council on Substance Abuse through our online application system.

For more information about CARES, please visit the GCSA website HERE