What should RSS professionals refrain from giving to clients?

RSS professionals should refrain from giving legal advice because their role is focused on providing support and resources related to recovery, rather than navigating the complexities of legal systems. Legal advice requires specific training and expertise in law, which recovery support specialists do not possess. Therefore, when RSS professionals attempt to give legal advice, they may inadvertently mislead clients or provide information that could lead to undesirable outcomes.

In contrast, emotional support, resource information, and motivational assistance are all within the scope of the RSS role. Providing emotional support helps clients feel understood and less isolated in their recovery journey. Sharing resource information equips clients with access to services they may need, and motivational assistance can help encourage clients toward achieving their recovery goals. However, these supportive actions must always remain within the RSS’s professional boundaries, avoiding areas like legal matters that require specialized knowledge.