Riverside’s new NC-8 Recovery Coach Program connects individuals with substance use challenges to trained peer support professionals who provide compassionate, personalized guidance. Through partnerships with local governments, this program is available to residents in eight Norfolk County towns: Canton, Dedham, Milton, Norwood, Walpole, Wellesley, and Weston at no cost, regardless of insurance status.
What is Recovery Coaching?
The program’s foundation is the partnership between participants and Recovery Coaches from Riverside’s Connect2Recovery service. Recovery Coaches draw from their lived experience with addiction to provide encouragement, motivation, and non-judgmental support throughout the recovery journey. This peer-to-peer model creates authentic connections that reduce stigma and isolation while fostering hope and accountability.
“Our Recovery Coaches use a person-centered, strengths-based approach that empowers people to take the lead in their recovery,” said Recovery Coach Johnny Pike. By offering practical guidance rooted in real-world experience rather than purely clinical expertise, Recovery Coaches serve as an essential complement to traditional treatment approaches.
Comprehensive Recovery Support
Each participant works with their Coach to develop a personalized Recovery Wellness Plan focusing on removing obstacles to their unique goals. To support these plans, NC-8 staff take a balanced approach to wellness that addresses multiple aspects of recovery.
Our Recovery Coaches connect participants with peer support groups, including Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, and SMART Recovery. They also help people served access essential resources including healthcare, housing assistance, and SNAP benefits. When individuals face legal or institutional challenges, Recovery Coaches provide guidance for navigating systems like governmental services, drug court proceedings, and probation requirements.
Program Impact and Future Vision
Recovery Coaching and other peer support services help participants build stronger relationships with their providers, stay in treatment longer, feel more satisfied with their care, and reduce their risk of relapse. The NC-8 Recovery Coach Program represents a vital expansion of peer-based recovery services, and Riverside hopes its continued success will lead to similar expansions throughout Massachusetts.
Complete this referral form if you or someone you know would benefit from our NC-8 Recovery Coach Program, or email NC-8@riversidecc.org for more information.
