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Presenter Information
Co-Presenter & Contact Information for Training

Jesse Kaplan Profile Pic.jpg

Jesse Kaplan

RCPF, CPRSR-FE-AS, CPS 

Regional Outreach Manager

Mn Adult & Teen Challenge

Direct: 612-238-6235

www.mntc.org 

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Barry Baer 

Owner

Recovery Support Network

Direct: 602-545-7330 barry@recoverysupportnetwork.org www.recoveysupprtnetwork.org 

Introduction to Peer Recovery Coaching + Foundations 1 Communicating for Connection 

Class Information

Date of Event

August 14 & 15, 2025*

Start Time

9:00 am CST

End Time

11:00 am CST

# of CE Hours Awarded

2 per class – Total 4

*Individual Classes Available Upon Request

Brief Description of Training

Introduction to Peer Recovery Coach : 

Hosted by Recovery Support Network and led by facilitator Jesse Kaplan, RCPF, CPRSR-FE-AS, CPS. Build essential skills in this virtual, two-part training on Peer Recovery Coaching and Communication for Connection. Join us August 14-15, 2025, from 9:00-11:00 am CST to empower individuals on their recovery path.

Foundations 1 Communicating for Connection

To equip staff with essential communication skills to foster genuine connections, understand diverse communication styles, and provide empathetic support while maintaining professional boundaries. This series aims to help staff become safe and empathetic individuals who can effectively communicate care and listen with full presence.

*Individual Classes Available Upon Request

Minnesota Certification Board Approved

Peer Recovery Specialists (CPRS and CPRSR)

Learning Objectives

Introduction to Peer Recovery Coach : 

• The Core of Recovery Coaching: Gain a comprehensive understanding of the principles, ethics, and boundaries that guide this vital profession. Learn how recovery coaching differs from other helping professions.

 

• Motivational Interviewing: Master truly hearing your clients. Develop essential skills in active listening and motivational interviewing (MI) techniques, fostering trust and encouraging selfdirected change.

 

• Building Trust and Connection: Explore the importance of building rapport and establishing a safe space for open communication. Learn how to navigate cultural differences and demonstrate empathy for diverse experiences.

• Goal Setting and Relapse Prevention: Craft a roadmap to success! This course equips you with the tools to help clients set SMART goals and develop personalized relapse prevention plans, empowering them to overcome challenges and maintain long-term recovery.

 

• Effective Communication: Discover how to communicate, assertively, and with empathy. Learn to navigate difficult conversations and foster productive coaching relationships.

• Self-Care for the Coach: While guiding others, maintaining your well-being is crucial. We'll explore essential self- care practices to ensure you can effectively support your clients throughout their journeys. 

Foundations 1: Communicating for Connection

• Use Eye Contact: Look at people when you talk to them to show you're paying attention and build a connection. Be aware that what's considered polite eye contact can vary across different cultures.

• Notice Body Language: Pay attention to non-verbal cues, as they are a big part of communication. • Be Present: Focus completely on the person you are with.

• Ask Open-Ended Questions: Encourage people to share more by asking questions that can't be answered with a simple "yes" or "no." This shows you are curious to learn more.

• Know the Difference:  

      o Open-ended questions are for starting a conversation (e.g., "How have 

      you been feeling?").

      o Closed-ended questions are for getting specific information (e.g., "Did

      you

      go to the meeting?").

      o Stay in Your Role: Remember to ask questions from a supportive peer

       perspective, not as a counselor.

• Listen Actively: Show you're engaged by summarizing and reflecting on what the other person says.

• Check for Understanding: Use phrases like, "If I heard you correctly..." or "Did I get that right?" to make sure you understand and show you care.

• Embrace Silence: It's okay to be quiet. Silence gives the other person space to think and share more when they're ready. Active listening and allowing for silence are powerful ways to show you care and to ensure you understand their perspective

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