Our program takes just six months to complete and includes eight classes, two of which are known as supervised practicums. The undergraduate certificate at National University combines training in psychology, physiology, law and ethics, case management, and counseling. Students learn to correctly diagnose dependence issues and develop unique treatment plans based on individual client needs. Developing relationships with other counselors and professionals is an important part of the program; students go out in the field to learn first-hand from experts already working in the profession. Some states require completion of 2,000 to 6,000 internship hours before taking an exam, but requirements vary depending on your current academic level. There are several types of jobs in this field, so as a first step to creating your career path, you’ll want to research what is available in your community and area of interest.
At Addiction Counselor, we connect our readers with the tools and resources they need to begin a successful career in the field of addiction counseling. Furthermore, when a person has state licensure in one state, they can either find a state that offers full reciprocity or one that will allow temporary licensure. Counselors must complete their new state’s requirements before the period ends, however, if they wish to remain in the profession. Since this specialty is relatively new, there is little in the way of consistency between each state. Some require lengthy periods in which burgeoning counselors must work under close supervision. Mental health issues and behavioral disorders often coincide with addiction.
How Does Someone Become a Substance Abuse Counselor?
If you are passionate about helping others to overcome, treat, and manage their addiction, it’s time to start your career as a certified addiction counselor through a Certified Addiction Counselor (CAC) program. They work with individuals, couples, families, and others affected by addiction and provide education, support, and critical coping skills to help them lead happier, healthier, and longer lives. They also utilize therapeutic, mental, and behavioral techniques and services to help their clients establish pathways to recovery.
- They may also be found on the staff of hospitals and other large health centers that treat a range of health issues as part of a patient care team.
- Finally, anyone becoming a counselor should be aware that this isn’t your standard nine to five job.
- While no degree can guarantee you a job, most graduates find that a master’s in psychology is worth it.
- An MS program may focus on scientific and research-based approaches to counseling.
While every institution has a different staff structure, a majority of the ones listed below demand that their entry-level workers (those with or without a high school education) have first-hand knowledge of drug and/or alcohol abuse. These institutions demand that these employees refrain from using drugs or alcohol for a certain amount of time — often two or three years prior to their employment. This particular experience criterion stems from the tenet of the original 12-Step Program for alcoholics that only an alcoholic in sobriety can assist another alcoholic in sobriety. Both the application and payment plan forms can be found under the Get Started tab by simply selecting the Apply option.
How can I qualify for substance abuse counselor jobs?
Substance abuse counselors are required to be licensed to practice legally. These are the types of degrees required for admission substance abuse counseling to a Masters-level program. Requirements vary from state to state, so make sure you know what is required in your state.
