Health and Wellness Specialist

Position Summary

The Health & Wellness Specialist is responsible for supporting clients in achieving their physical health and wellness goals as part of Zia Recovery Center’s integrated treatment model. This position works closely with the facility’s Chef on nutrition and dietetics, leads clients in individualized and group physical training, and coordinates gardening activities that promote healthy living and sustainable practices. The Specialist facilitates IOP and CPSW groups focused on healthy eating, lifestyle management, and physical wellness. This role is a key bridge between treatment plans and practical implementation, ensuring that clients’ physical health goals become part of their daily routines.

Essential Responsibilities

• Collaborate with the Chef to align meal planning and preparation with dietetic best practices and client health plans.


• Educate clients on nutrition, healthy eating habits, and portion control.


• Co-lead cooking demonstrations and healthy meal prep activities.


• Develop and implement individualized fitness routines aligned with client treatment goals.


• Supervise and lead structured physical training sessions at the gym or designated facilities.


• Teach clients about safe exercise practices and strategies for maintaining lifelong wellness.


• Coordinate and oversee gardening projects to provide fresh produce for meals and therapeutic engagement.


• Involve clients directly in planting, cultivating, and harvesting activities.


• Incorporate gardening into therapeutic groups to promote holistic wellness and connection with nature.


• Facilitate IOP and CPSW groups on healthy eating, physical activity, and sustainable living.


• Use evidence-based, trauma-informed approaches when leading wellness-focused groups.


• Document group progress and individual participation in accordance with clinical standards.


• Work closely with clinical staff, chefs, and program directors to integrate wellness into treatment plans.


• Participate in treatment team meetings and provide input on client progress related to physical health.


• Maintain compliance with HIPAA, CARF, and internal standards.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science, Nutrition, Dietetics, Health & Wellness, or related field; or equivalent combination of education and experience.


• Certification in Personal Training, Group Fitness, Nutrition Coaching, or related credentials (e.g., ACE, NASM, ACSM, or comparable).


• Experience working with individuals in recovery or behavioral health settings.


• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to motivate and engage diverse client populations.


• Ability to pass a background check and drug screening.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certified Peer Support Worker (CPSW) or eligible to obtain.


• Experience leading groups in a clinical or residential setting.


• Gardening, horticulture, or sustainable food systems experience.


• CPR/First Aid certification.

Physical Demands & Work Environment

• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs. and engage in physical activity (gardening, fitness demonstrations).


• Comfort working indoors (kitchen, gym, classrooms) and outdoors (gardens, grounds).


• Exposure to therapeutic residential environments with flexible scheduling needs (some evenings/weekends).


• Reasonable accommodations available per ADA.

Equal Opportunity & Employment Compliance

Zia Recovery Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any legally protected class. Employment is contingent on successful background screening and drug testing.