June 9, 2025

At Forsyth Tech, we know that some of the most powerful healing happens when people with lived experience step forward to help others. That’s why we’re offering two fully funded grant opportunities for students ready to pursue careers in addiction counseling and recovery support.

Thanks to Forsyth County’s Behavioral Health Opioid Settlement funds, eligible students can receive free tuition, books, and fees—plus a quarterly stipend of $750 (up to $3,000 total), malpractice insurance during internships, and funding for certification exams.

If you’ve been personally affected by substance use, or if you’re already working in recovery spaces and ready to grow your credentials, now’s the time.

The deadline to apply is June 30, 2025!

Option 1: Become a Certified Peer Support Specialist

This track is designed for individuals who are in recovery themselves and want to help others through peer-to-peer support. You must be at least 18, live in Forsyth County, and have at least one year in recovery from a substance use disorder. A high school diploma or GED is required.

As a participant, you’ll complete NC’s Certified Peer Support Specialist (CPSS) training while working toward a Community Outreach Certificate and taking Clinical Experience courses. Along the way, you’ll receive funding for certification fees, mentorship, and access to professional workshops.

This is an especially strong fit if you bring cultural awareness, lived experience with the justice system, or advocacy for marginalized communities—including Latinx, African American, or LGBTQ+ populations.

Option 2: Train to Become a Clinical Addictions Counselor

If you already hold a clinical degree—such as a social work or counseling degree—this track helps you advance toward official certification as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) or Licensed Clinical Addiction Specialist (LCAS).

Participants must be Forsyth County residents, age 18 or older, with an associate, bachelor’s, or master’s degree in a related field. This program covers coursework for Forsyth Tech’s Accelerated Addictions & Recovery Certificate and includes financial support for exam fees, NCASPPB registration, and even background screening.

This pathway is ideal for individuals looking to step into clinical counseling roles or expand their capacity to support individuals with substance use disorders in professional settings.

A Real Investment in the Recovery Workforce

Both of these programs aim to build a stronger, more inclusive behavioral health workforce in our region. They’re designed with equity in mind—centered on those who have walked the walk and now want to guide others.

If you’re ready to turn your experience into expertise—or if you already work in the field and want to earn your credentials—this is your moment.

Ready to apply?
Click here to submit your application online before June 30, 2025.

Questions? Contact Tina Spach at tspach@forsythtech.edu or Elizabeth Zook at ezook@forsythtech.edu.