Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor CASAC Office of Addiction Services and Supports

Physical, emotional and physical aspects of addiction are primary strengths and avenues to healing for the individual and family. Learn to apply the Christian worldview and key concepts in spirituality to understanding and treating addiction. These professionals work with individuals who experience a range of substance use issues. This may involve working with people with alcohol https://ecosoberhouse.com/article/13-actionable-tips-to-stay-sober-at-different-times/ use disorders, but they may also work with clients with substance use disorders involving drugs such as cocaine, heroin, marijuana, and prescription medications. Specific job duties often vary depending on where professionals work and the type of support they offer. They often counsel individuals or groups to help people understand the factors contributing to addiction.

Our drug and alcohol abuse counselor training and certification are designed with the busy, modern student in mind. That student may be a veteran who just finished their military service or a grandparent looking for a career change. We publish material that is researched, cited, edited and reviewed by licensed medical professionals. The information we provide is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. It should not be used in place of the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare providers.

How to become an addiction counselor

If you’re eager to get into the field, you don’t have to wait until you complete your substance abuse counselor degree. Many substance abuse clinics have positions that offer students the chance to gain practical experience while working toward a degree and/or license. Courses in the substance abuse concentration are taught by practicing professionals who bring years of experience to their teaching. You’ll develop the research and communication skills needed to identify and assess community resources for your clients, conduct assessments and interview and assist clients who need services. This guide addresses specific treatment needs of adult men living with substance use disorders. It reviews gender-specific research and best practices, such as common patterns of substance use among men and specific treatment issues and strategies.

If so, then a career as a certified substance abuse counselor may be right for you. This manual lists competencies for effective supervision in substance use disorder treatment programs. It provides step-by-step guidance for implementing comprehensive supervisory training and workforce development. This guide helps substance use counselors treat clients with symptoms of depression and substance use conditions.

Why Pursue Substance Abuse Certification?

As a licensed counselor with a master’s degree, you can look forward to a strong job market and reliable employment. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 22 percent of substance abuse counselors work in outpatient facilities. For example, those who specialize in working with kids and teens may end up working in the school district. Some counselors work directly for hospitals, while others may open a private practice. Counselors also work in tandem with detention centers such as jails or prisons.

The same report found that less than 10 percent of people who needed treatment for substance use disorder received it. The need for well-trained counselors who can diagnose, assess and treat addiction is greater than ever—for those who have never received treatment and for the millions of people who benefit from counseling services every day. Like other counselors and psychologists, substance abuse counselors work closely with individuals and groups to identify problem behaviors and offer solutions. Substance abuse counselors, however, focus on the world of addiction and its far-reaching effects, with the aim of assisting patients in finding the right path to recovery and staying on that path for as long as possible. Professionals who work in substance abuse counseling also work to educate people about the effects and risks of drug and alcohol misuse.

How long does it take to become a drug counselor?

Nationally, the field of substance abuse/addictions counseling is expected to enjoy faster than average job growth (United States Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics). Thus, the field of substance abuse counseling represents a wise choice for students interested in entering this helping profession. Professionals in private practice must be licensed by the state where they work. Such requirements vary from one state to the next, but most require between 2,000 and 4,000 hours of supervised clinical experience, the passage of a state licensing exam, and the completion of continuing education credits every year. Are you prepared to show warmth and empathy to a client struggling with drug or alcohol abuse? Are you able to commit to your client’s health while maintaining your own well being?

• This manual presents guidelines for clinical supervision in the substance use disorder treatment field.
• Counselors must know community resources and procedures for referral to be able to insure access to effective and appropriate support services for clients.
• They teach individuals how to modify their behavior with the intention of full recovery.
• According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), nearly 9.2 million Americans suffer from co-occurring disorders (e.g. mental health conditions) alongside a substance use disorder.
• Learn more about the certificate for substance abuse counseling at MWCC by requesting additional information or applying online today.

And with no set class times, 24/7 access to the online classroom, and helpful learning resources along the way, you’ll have everything you need to reach your goals. If you think it’s time to start seeing a therapist but haven’t found one yet, let us help. You can use the search tools on OpenCounseling to find free or low-cost therapy where you live. You may also want to consider trying affordable online therapy through BetterHelp (a sponsor). Counselors must be able to articulate and implement counseling intervention strategies perceived as appropriate by both the counselor and the client.

Substance Abuse Counseling vs. Therapy: How to Choose

Speak with your university counselor to learn more about your opportunities for scholarships off tuition through GCU’s educational alliances or to find out about options for continuing education for teachers. SNHU’s online bachelor’s in human services offers a choice of 3 concentrations – child and family services, gerontology and substance abuse – that can help you get started in a rewarding profession helping others. Today, there are counselors working with people who struggle with mental illness, substance abuse, domestic violence and health conditions. There are also counselors specifically trained to help people handle grief or manage stress.