Associates Degree In Addiction Counseling Online

Can A Phd In Addiction Counseling Be Completed Online

Yes! There are select online addiction counseling degree programs at the doctoral level. If your goal is to become licensed, however, you should be sure to check with your state licensing board to determine whether such a program will meet credentialing requirements.

References: 1. National Center for Education Statistics College Navigator:

Online Substance Abuse Counseling Degrees

A substance abuse counselor degree is required for a career in substance abuse counseling. These counselors provide assistance to people with alcohol and drug addictions. They evaluate the health of their clients, develop treatment plans, assist with behavior modification and skill-building, and educate and counsel families. Counselors may work in a healthcare setting or in a private practice. Those that excel as substance abuse counselors are compassionate and have the abilities to communicate, listen in a non-judgmental way, remain calm, and interact with different types of people. Pursuing a substance abuse counselor degree online is a budget-friendly solution for many.

Is A Phd Needed To Become A Counselor

In most cases, no. A masters degree is generally considered the terminal degree in counseling, as a masters in counseling satisfies the education requirement for licensure in all 50 states. However, for those who have a masters in a different subject, a doctoral substance abuse counselor program can offer the necessary specialization to qualify for licensure. Additionally, a PhD may be expected for many positions in research and academia, including tenure-track faculty in colleges and universities.

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Career Opportunities In Addiction Studies

For most therapists and counselors, a masters degree is required. Thats not often the case in the field of substance abuse, where opportunities are growing at more than three times the average job growth rate for all occupations. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that, while most jobs in the field require at least a bachelors degree, some jobs require as little as a high school diploma and a certification class.

Different states and employers have different requirements. With an associates degree in this field, you might find opportunities such as program counselor or addiction counselor in inpatient or outpatient facilities, or you might be limited to support roles in substance abuse and mental health services. Often, workers in the field of substance abuse counseling who dont have a masters degree must work under the supervision of counselors who have this advanced degree. To attain a counselor role with only an associates degree, you may first need to gain a couple of years of work experience in a support or assistant role in substance abuse and mental health treatment.

Having a bachelors degree expands your career options in the field of substance abuse counseling considerably, but it still might not be the end of the line for your college studies. While 19 percent of substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors have a bachelors degree, 30 percent have a masters degree and another 16 percent have a professional degree.

Masters In Substance Abuse Counselingflorida Requirements

Another option to consider is a Florida certified addiction counselor graduate program. To qualify for admission to this type of program, you must already have a Bachelors degree from an accredited university. While some schools require a degree in psychology or a similar field, others accept students with training in other areas.

Over a period of two years, you can plan to earn up to 50 credits while taking a wide range of substance abuse treatment and intervention courses. Clinical experience is a core part of this degree, with many schools requiring several hundred hours of training prior to graduation. Requirements are similar for those wanting to earn a Florida graduate certificate in addiction and recovery.

Addiction Counselor Florida Graduate Courses

• Foundations of Counseling in Substance Abuse
• Research and Program Evaluation
• Diagnosis, Appraisal, Assessment, and Testing
• Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention of Substance Abuse

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Associates In Mental Health Counseling

Associate degrees in mental health counseling, mental health studies, or counseling prepare graduates to understand mental health and wellness and support licensed counselors in roles such as mental health technician or assistant. In mental health counseling associate degree programs, students may learn about human behavior and development, foundations of counseling, social and emotional disorders, and clinical terminology. While there are associates degrees in mental health counseling available, a graduate degree and supervised experience is required to earn full licensure and practice independently as a mental health counselor. Find more information about degree pathways in our masters in mental health counseling degree guide.

What Degree Is Needed To Be A Substance Abuse Counselor

To become a licensed substance abuse counselor in a paid or salaried position, you typically need to have at least an associates degree plus supervised work experience. Some states maintain lists of approved drug counselor degree programs and substance abuse counselor training programs. Passing scores on a professional exam focused on addiction therapy is also a common requirement. You can find detailed requirements and further information about acceptable substance abuse counselor programs through your states counselor licensing board.

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Useful Certifications For Addiction Counselors

On top of your degree, you may want to earn additional certifications that will give you a competitive advantage over other candidates for positions in the field. National certification is also a great way to increase your expertise as an addiction counsellor.

Here is an overview of the top 5 certifications that are important for drug addiction counsellors.

• National Certified Addiction Counselor, Level I Requires more than two years of education after high school and three years of work experience. It can be earned by credentialed or licensed professionals.

• National Certified Addiction Counselor, Level II Bachelors degree or higher plus three years of work experience. This certification is available for credentialed or licensed professionals.

• Master Addiction Counselor Masters degree or higher plus three years full time work experience. Candidates must have a current credential or license as an addiction counsellor or related field.

• Certified Chemical Dependency Counselor- Requires more than two years of education and training/work experience after high school.

• Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor Requires more than two years of education and training/work experience after high school.

How Much Does An Addiction Counseling Degree Cost

Addiction counseling degree costs depend on the type of degree a student pursues. A bachelor’s degree averages $35,331 per year according to the Education Data Initiative. However, in-state public institutions cost less on an average than private institutions.

The Education Data Initiative reports that a master’s degree averages $66,340 total. Most master’s degrees in addiction counseling take at least two years of study to complete. Part-time students require more time for their degree, since they take less credits per semester than full-time students.

Learners can pursue an addiction counseling degree online or in person. Depending on the degree level, students may need to complete an in-person clinical part of their program.

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Your Future In Addiction Counseling

The Addiction Counseling program is designed to provide you with invaluable skills so you can counsel clients through the recovery process. Topics include assessment, treatment planning, individual and group counseling, case management, crisis intervention, vocational rehabilitation, trauma and recovery, client education, and community resources. Discussions will occur around special issues including sexual harassment, gender, aging, disabilities, cultural differences, and co-occurring disorders.

Throughout the program, youll learn to apply theories of addiction, substance assessment, and counseling techniques including motivational counseling. Youll grow to understand the neurobiology of addiction, family addiction dynamics, and special population concerns. Throughout the program you will explore ethics and boundary considerations, all while working and interacting with those involved in Addiction Counseling. Lastly, but still very important, youll develop an understanding of diversity and tolerance for others.

With flexible online and on-campus schedules, smaller class sizes, and accelerated programs, you will feel prepared and supported to pursue your career goals upon graduation.

Ashland Universitys Department Of Addictions Counseling Prevention And Human Services

Substance use is a problem for all industries and businesses. No matter your field, expand your impact and help others overcome substance use struggles.

Ashland Universitys academic addiction programs focus on providing quality education to those preparing for a career in addictions counseling to provide ethical client-centered care to those suffering from substance use disorders and their affected families. The Department of Addictions Counseling, Prevention, and Human Services offers a Minor in Addictions for students pursuing any bachelors degrees and an Associate of Arts with a Concentration in Addictions.

A Few Extra Classes Could Dramatically Change Your Job ProspectsIn your career, situations will arise where you may encounter someone who is struggling with addiction. Be a step ahead in your field and learn ethical client-centered treatment practices.

Ashland Universitys unique addictions program offers education for all levels of credentialing/licensure in Ohio for addictions counseling that build upon each other and allows a student to choose his/her own bachelors degree major while completing the addictions minor. Popular behavioral science majors include psychology, criminal justice, social work, and nursing.

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Choosing An Associates In Counseling Degree Program

Associates degrees provide students with an introduction to post-secondary learning and often have core curriculum requirements that every student must complete. While associates degrees in counseling are available, they are not common therefore, students interested in counseling career paths may also choose to pursue a degree that provides related knowledge, such as psychology, human services, or family studies. Both counseling associate degrees and associate degrees in related fields will prepare students for further specialization in some of the most popular counseling areas of practice: professional counseling , marriage and family therapy, school counseling, substance abuse counseling, and rehabilitation counseling.

Associates-level degree programs are often designed to develop breadth of knowledge in core areas, such as writing and composition, math, humanities, and science, with a smaller number of subject-specific electives. Students can choose from a range of courses related to counseling and mental health as part of the elective requirements, depending on what is offered at the school. Choosing an area of counseling specialization becomes more important at the graduate level as each state has specific degree and course requirements for each practice area.

What Degree Do You Need To Be An Addiction Counselor

The degree level and courses required to become an addiction counselor vary by state. Many states recognize apprentice-level or entry-level substance abuse counselors beginning at the associates degree level, but many others require a bachelors degree for licensure. A masters in addiction counseling will allow you to practice independently in most states.

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Types Of Associates Degrees In Counseling

Counseling is a broad field and individuals with a counseling degree may work in a variety of settings. In most counseling areas, you will need a graduate degree to earn a full counseling license, but an associates degree in counseling or a related area can be the first step towards meeting licensure requirements and can provide opportunities to work in entry-level positions and learn about the profession. Degrees requiring a wider range of arts coursework may lead to an Associate of Arts degree, while degree programs requiring statistics, science, or clinical coursework may lead to an Associate of Science or Associate of Applied Science degree. Most associates degrees comprise 60 credits and take about two years to complete if attending full-time. The five major counseling categories recognized by the Bureau of Labor Statistics are: marriage and family therapy, mental health counseling, rehabilitation counseling, school counseling, and substance abuse counseling. Read more about associate degree options related to these common areas of counseling specialization below.

Licensure For Addiction Counseling

To work in private practice, addiction counselors must receive licensure from their state. Exact criteria vary, but every state requires a bachelor’s or master’s degree and 2,000-4,000 clinical experience hours. Find your state’s requirements with this list.

For example, the Idaho Board of Alcohol/Drug Counselor Certification, Inc. offers different levels of certification with different education requirements. Options include certified peer recovery coach, advanced certified alcohol/drug counselor, and substance use disorder associate. The applications for these certifications cost $50-$80 and the tests cost $145-$235.

Graduates working outside private practice may experience more leeway when it comes to licensure. Students should check their state’s requirements.

Besides licensure, addiction counselors may pursue certification from the National Certification Commission for Addiction Professionals. While they do not count as licensure on their own, the certifications set a national standard for addiction counselors’ knowledge and skills. Earning the credential may set potential employees apart or help employees get a promotion.

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Master In Counseling: Addiction Counseling Specialization Program Mission

Developed in alignment with the standards of The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs and curriculum specific requirements of the California Board of Behavioral Sciences , the mission of the Master of Arts in Counseling: Addiction Counseling Specialization is to provide academic and professional clinical training to students, as adult learners, to become ethical, culturally sensitive, and competent counselors who can effectively diagnose and treat a diverse population of individuals recovering from substance abuse. The program blends both theoretical and applied concepts relevant to addiction counseling professionals, thus preparing students capable of making unique contributions to the underserved in their communities and society.

Professional Certifications For Substance Abuse Counseling Degree Holders

Substance abuse counselor certification varies widely by state, though it usually requires at least some formal education. An associates degree in substance abuse counseling is commonly the entry-level education requirement for a license in this field, as earning your associates in addiction or a related field may qualify you for a technician or training license while you complete supervised experience. Some states allow you to become fully licensed after completing the required supervised experience, while others require that you work under supervision until you earn a bachelors degree or complete equivalent substance abuse counselor training. Other states may have different requirements. Examples of possible license titles at this level include Certified Addiction Counselor and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor .

A post-graduate certificate in substance abuse counseling can also qualify you for professional certification, depending on your states requirements. Possible job titles will vary widely according to the level of the drug and alcohol counselor training program as well as other aspects of your education and work history. Generally, a certificate program will lead to license titles similar to those opened up by a bachelors or masters degree.

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Accredited Online Colleges For Drug And Alcohol Counseling

Students pursue online addiction counseling degrees to work with individuals with substance use disorders. Addiction counseling careers include substance misuse and mental health counselors, community health workers, and community service managers.

Online addiction counseling degrees instruct students in counseling as it specifically relates to addiction. However, students also learn broader counseling techniques and ethics. Most online counseling degrees cover prevention tactics, human development, and trauma in families.

Institutions offer online addiction counseling degrees at several levels, but most commonly at the bachelor’s and master’s levels. Applicants need a high school diploma or equivalent for a bachelor’s program, or a bachelor’s degree for a master’s program.

Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.

What Is An Addiction Counselor

An addiction or substance abuse counsellor is a mental health professional who helps people with substance use disorders. Substance use disorders are when someone has an intense desire or need for drugs or alcohol, but their use of them causes problems in their life, including problems with relationships and jobs.

Substance abuse or addiction counsellors can help you identify if you have a problem with drugs and alcohol and then work with you to find the best way to manage your addiction and live a healthy life. They can also help you get treatment if needed.

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Diploma And Degree Options

Beal University offers a 14-month* Addiction Counseling Diploma for those who wish to take a shorter program and quickly start a career. Diploma graduates can then complete the Associates degree Diploma programs in only 8-months*. Alternatively, you can take the remaining courses to complete the Bachelor of Science Degree, which could lead to increased opportunities and a wider breadth of knowledge.

At Beal University, we offer three Addiction Counseling programs:

Addiction Counseling Diploma | 14 Months*Available 100% Online or Hybrid

If you are looking to quickly start a career in Addiction Counseling, consider our 14-month* Diploma program. This program is intended for those who wish to begin in a shorter program as a first step into becoming an Addiction Counselor.

Addiction Counseling Associates Degree | 20 Months* 100% Online

Our 8-month* Addiction Counseling Associates Degree completion program is designed for the diploma graduate to expand their academic foundation to further their career in addiction counseling services.

Note: The Addiction Counseling Associates Degree program is available to US students only.

Addiction Counseling Bachelor of Science Degree | 42 Months*100% Online

Note: Students who possess a Diploma in Addiction Counseling may transfer to the Bachelors Degree program and complete within 26 months*. Students who transfer from the Associates Degree program may complete the Bachelors program within 20 months*.

Courses In Addiction Counseling

Addiction counseling degree-seekers take courses in subjects including counseling, addiction, and treatment planning. This interdisciplinary degree teaches a broad understanding of counseling techniques for individuals with addiction in different settings.

Some schools offer specialized elective classes for students to explore their interests. These include courses in theory of personality, drug policies in the United States, and community resources in mental health.

See below for a few courses students may take earning their addiction counseling degree online. Learners may not find these exact classes at every school. Rather, the selected descriptions represent a sample curriculum.

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