CRSS Test Review

A comprehensive set of 100 vocabulary flashcards and questions focused on key concepts relevant to the CRSS certification exam.

What is recovery in the context of mental health and substance use?

A lifelong journey of change, growth, and improvement focused on well-being, regardless of challenges.

What is the primary role of a Recovery Support Specialist?

To provide peer support, guide individuals through recovery, share their lived experience and connect them to resources

What is a critical element of effective recovery?

Ongoing support, including professional help and natural supports, to maintain progress, building resilience and using positive coping strategies.

Which of the following is NOT an example of advocating for recovery?

Telling individuals they should follow a specific recovery path without considering their personal needs and preferences

What does the strengths-based approach focus on?

Focusing on what individuals do well, their capabilities, and resources to promote growth and recovery

What is the main goal of relapse prevention in recovery?

To prepare individuals to manage triggers, stress, and cravings to maintain long-term recovery

What is person-centered support?

A support approach that prioritizes the individual’s goals, needs, preferences, and values in planning and decision-making

Non-judgmental listening

Listening to the client’s needs and wants without bias.

Which of the following is NOT an example of client autonomy?

Deciding for a client what is best for them without involving them in the decision-making process

What does systems advocacy focus on?

Promoting changes in policies, practices, and systems to improve the overall well-being of individuals in a community

What is burnout?

A state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress and exposure to secondary trauma.

Dual Relationships

Situations where a Recovery Support Specialist has multiple (including personal) roles with a client.

Coping strategies

Methods used to manage stress and challenges during recovery.

Community Engagement

Involving community organizations to improve access to services.

Strength-focused therapy is NOT

Peer support that emphasizes the client’s weaknesses rather than their strengths.

Empathy in recovery

Understanding and sharing the feelings of others in recovery.

Community stigma

Societal biases and prejudices that affect individuals in recovery.

What is the primary purpose of peer support groups?

To allow people with shared experiences to support each other in a non-judgmental, mutual environment

What are professional boundaries in a peer support role?

Guidelines that ensure respectful, ethical, and supportive relationships without becoming too personally involved

Which of the following is an effective advocacy strategy?

Educating individuals about their rights and helping them speak up for themselves

Work-life Balance

Maintaining a healthy balance between work responsibilities and personal life to support overall well-being

Motivation in recovery

The drive to engage in recovery activities and make positive changes.

What are accommodations at work?

Adjustments or modifications to a job or work environment to support employees with disabilities

Reporting unethical behavior

Informing relevant authorities about misconduct in recovery support.

What is a holistic approach in recovery or support services?

Addressing the whole person—mind, body, emotions, and environment—to support overall well-being

Crisis Intervention

Immediate assistance given to clients in psychological distress.

Recovery Milestones

Significant achievements or progress markers in the recovery process.

Substance use triggers

Factors that may lead a person to relapse or use substances again.

Community support systems

Networks that offer assistance and services for individuals in recovery.

Role of the CRSS is NOT

Providing clinical diagnoses or prescribing medication

Appropriate Self-Disclosure

A CRSS should be mindful of when and how much self-disclosure will help the client.

Crisis Support Skills

Techniques to effectively assist clients during a crisis.

Inclusive employment practices

Policies aimed at hiring a diverse workforce, including individuals in recovery.

What does resilience in adversity involve?

Using setbacks as an opportunity to develop strength, learn, and keep moving forward despite difficulties

Community-based recovery services

Support services that are provided within local communities.

Tailored Recovery Plans

Personalized strategies for each client's recovery journey.

Listening skills in support

The ability to effectively absorb and understand client needs in an empathetic way.

What is the value of lived experience in peer support and recovery?

It builds trust, offers hope, and creates connection through shared understanding.

Which of the following is a positive coping strategy?

Practicing deep breathing or mindfulness during stress

What does encouraging self-efficacy involve?

Helping individuals believe in their ability to achieve goals and make decisions

What does promoting holistic wellness involve?

Supporting all aspects of a person’s well-being, including physical, emotional, social, and spiritual health

Which of the following is a systemic barrier to recovery?

Limited access to affordable housing and healthcare

What are natural supports?

Friends, family, and community members who provide emotional, social, and practical support

What does maintaining a balanced perspective involve?

Acknowledging both the challenges and strengths in a situation for better decision-making

What is a potential issue with dual relationships in a CRSS to client setting?

They can blur professional boundaries, leading to conflicts of interest and reduced objectivity in supporting the client’s recovery.