How to Become a Substance Abuse Counselor

However, a career in counseling comes with a number of meaningful benefits—like improving clients’ lives—that can outweigh the difficulties. This certification is intended for experienced professionals who plan to teach, coach, mentor, and evaluate other substance abuse and addiction professionals. Some states require you to pass similar examinations for mental health licensure. Examples include the National Counselor Examination (NCE) and the National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE).

Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) Certification Guide

It provides proof that the individual has met certain standards of knowledge and skill in the area of substance abuse counseling, and is thus qualified to provide counseling services. This certification can be obtained through an accredited program or institution, and requires meeting specific educational requirements, passing an exam, and completing supervised clinical experience. Every state licensing agency has its own criteria, but there are a few general guidelines that should be helpful. First, aspiring LPCs should attend and graduate from an accredited program where they complete the requisite number of credit hours in mental health counseling, social work, or an affiliated field.

What does a substance abuse counselor do?

Addiction happens when an individual becomes overly dependent on potentially harmful substances, such as alcohol or drugs. Addictions counselors, previously referred to as substance abuse counselors, are trained and equipped to treat patients seeking recovery from substance addictions. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health substance abuse counseling Services Administration (SAMHSA) aims to reduce the impact of substance misabuse and mental illness on communities across the nation. SAMHSA encourages interested individuals to become counselors to improve behavioral health and improve the lives of people living with and in recovery of substance use disorders.

Earning a Drug and Alcohol Counseling Certificate in California

Mental health counselors provide support and guidance to clients struggling with addiction, stress, depression, relationship conflicts, grief and abuse. Because this counseling specialty requires skills in several areas of mental health, it best suits generalists interested in various patient populations. To become a grief counselor, you need a master’s degree in psychology, educational counseling or a related mental health field. Grief counselors need a license to practice and can pursue the Grief Counseling Certification through the American Academy of Grief Counselors, which is valid for four years.

• Choosing between CADC (Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor) and LADC (Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor) certifications is a critical decision for those pursuing a career in substance abuse and addiction counseling.
• Counselors work wherever mental health services are needed, including the military, schools, tertiary institutions, rehabilitation centers, hospitals and private practice.
• Residential (meaning you live at a treatment program)Residential care usually lasts for a few weeks to a few months.
• Nonetheless, a person can attain licensure and then decide to return for more education and a higher level of state certification.
• It also demonstrates their understanding of how to provide effective counseling services to those in need.

Counseling Careers

To become a CADC, an individual must complete certain educational requirements and pass an examination. To qualify to take the exam, applicants must have a minimum of 180 hours of documented education in alcohol and drug counseling as well as three years of supervised work experience in the field. Having a substance abuse counselor certification can help individuals stand out from other practitioners in their field, as it shows that they have taken the initiative to meet higher levels of training and competency.

Addiction counselors, also called substance abuse counselors, play a large role in helping individuals recover from substance use disorders and other destructive habits. These professionals work directly with clients and their families by providing ongoing therapy, counseling and guidance. Many addiction counselors have experienced the effects of addiction personally, whether in themselves or in the lives of loved ones. Addiction counselors must be caring, nonjudgmental individuals who have a passion for helping others. The career path is not a quick one, as it requires many years to attain licensure and certification. However, the end result is a profession that allows you to make a positive difference in people’s lives each day.

• LADC licensure ensures that you meet specific educational and clinical requirements and adhere to ethical and professional standards.
• Achieving CADC certification is an important step in your career, but ongoing education and advancement opportunities are key to maintaining and enhancing your professional skills over time.
• Understanding the economic landscape and the societal impact of their work can help guide their decisions in choosing appropriate degree programs and certifications.
• NAADAC also provides credentials through the National Certification Commission for Addiction Professionals (NCC AP), an independently managed branch of the organization.
• Many aspiring counselors start by obtaining their bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as addiction studies, psychology, or social sciences.
• The National Certified Counselor (NCC) is a prerequisite for the CCMHC specialty.

• The time it takes to obtain CADC certification can vary based on several factors, including your starting level of education and the specific requirements of your state.
• Having someone who truly listens, understands what you’re going through, and creates a safe space to be open and honest can significantly impact your recovery.
• A degree from the Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School will allow you to impact vulnerable individuals, families, and communities positively.
• Students should keep in mind that proof of student status will be required and that certain restrictions may apply.

• Other prescription drugs such as Adderall, Ritalin, and Benzodiazepines are likewise triggering addiction problems across the population.
• If you’re interested in or required to join your state’s association for substance abuse counselors, a quick search online should get you moving in the right direction.
• The CCDP certification is intended to recognize those counselors who have demonstrated expertise in this specialized area of practice.