California Licensing & Certifications For Associates & Independent Counselors
The National Council for Certifying Agencies provides accreditation to agencies that certify substance abuse counselor in California. As of 2018, the NCCA recognizes two agencies in the state – California Association of DUI Treatment and the California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals CCAPP . The California Department of Health Care Services permits anyone with active certification from either of these programs to work as a California substance abuse counselor in the state. No further licensure is required. The requirements of both California association counselor certification board programs are similar, and candidates will find an equal number of job opportunities with either credential.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary And Job Growth
TheBureau of Labor Statistics , projects the need for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors to rise 22% between 2018 and 2028, much faster than other industries. These professions grow as people continue to seek help for addictions. Substance abuse counselors earned a median annual salary of $46,240 in 2019.
Salary varies based on geographical region. Local governments often offer incentives, like federal loan forgiveness, to counselors who work in high-need areas. Certain employers, like federal prisons, often pay more to attract a competitive job pool.
Where Do Substance Abuse Counselors Work
Outpatient treatment centers employ 19% of addiction counselors, and another 10% work at residential facilities, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
These counselors in the substance abuse counseling field may also find employment with hospitals, medical clinics, correctional facilities, halfway houses, schools, youth centers, government agencies, or non-profit organizations. Others are employed by individual businesses to provide employee support.
Read Also: What To Do When Someone Is Addicted To Drugs
Do I Need A Masters To Become A Substance Abuse Counselor
Most states offer options for certification or licensure as a substance abuse counselor at the associates and bachelors degree levels, meaning that a masters degree is not strictly required. However, with a masters degree, you will typically qualify for a higher level of licensure due to the higher level of substance abuse counselor training that this degree represents, which can expand your career opportunities as well as increase your earnings potential.
Required Education And Degrees
You can fulfill the education requirement for licensure as an LPCA or LPC in two different ways.
One way is to earn a graduate degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from a program thats accredited by the Council on the Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs .
Right now in Connecticut there are five schools offering Master of Arts and Master of Science degrees in Clinical Mental Health Counseling.
The other way of fulfilling the education requirement for licensure is to earn a graduate degree in Counseling or a related mental health field thats at least 60 semester credits and accredited by a regional body recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation . Your degree program must include coursework in each of the following subject areas:
- Human growth and development
- Tests or appraisals and measurements to groups and individuals
- Evaluation and research
- Therapists, all other $68,210
Don’t Miss: How To Get Over An Addiction To Video Games
Why Get A Masters In Addiction Counseling
While not always required for certain counseling careers, earning a masters in counseling will typically qualify the graduate for higher levels of licensure. Higher levels of licensure can allow for independent practice, better salary potential, and a greater number of job opportunities overall. At the same time, a masters program is an intensive investment of both time and money. Only you can decide whether a masters is ultimately the best fit for your goals.
Faq On Becoming A Substance Abuse Counselor
After a master’s degree, substance abuse counselors must complete around 3,000 supervised hours, which takes about two years.
BLS reports amedian annual salary of $46,240 for substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors. Factors like employer type, years of experience, and geographical location affect salary.
These professionals diagnose and treat individuals experiencing substance abuse issues. They facilitate individual and group therapy sessions and provide clients with resources to overcome addiction.
Each state maintains different requirements, but most licensing boards require at least a master’s degree related to substance abuse counseling. This means most counselors spend at least six years on higher education.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration National Helpline
Recommended Reading: How To Get Rid Of An Addictive Personality
What Are The Requirements For Addiction Counselor Certification
To become a certified addiction counselor, you will first need to earn a high school diploma/GED. Once you have graduated from high school, you will be able to enroll in a bachelors degree program, in a field of your choice. In other words, you do not have to earn a bachelors degree in addiction counseling, counseling or a related field, in order to enroll in a masters degree program. You will, however, be required to earn a masters degree in addiction counseling, counseling or a related field, if you want to seek licensure in the field.
Most states require a masters degree, supervised clinical experience and successfully passing of the licensure exams to practice as an addiction counselor, however, in some circumstances you can become certified with a high school diploma/associates/bachelors degree, and extensive experience in addiction counseling.
Once you graduate with a bachelors degree, and enter a graduate program, you will complete a combination of coursework and clinical rotations .
Typical Master-Level Courses
- Survey of Research in Human Development for Professional Counselors
- Survey of Research Methodology
- Principles of Psychopathology: Diagnosis and Treatment
- Theories of Personality
- Ethical and Legal Issues in Professional Counseling
- Introduction to Clinical Mental Health Counseling
- Theories of Psychotherapy
- Life Planning and Career Development
- Counseling and Advocacy with Diverse Populations
Texas Licensing & Certifications For Associates & Independent Counselors
There are many different sorts of credentials you can hold as a Texas substance abuse counselor. You could be a licensed clinical social worker who specializes in addictions, a clinical psychologist, or a certified addiction registered nurse, among other credentials. Most of these require extensive academic training, on top of a rigorous internship. There is an alternative in Texas, if you would rather focus in on your passion.
Texas offers a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor credential that does not require you to hold a master’s degree. In some cases, those with an associate’s degree may be LCDCs. Just like other Texas mental health professionals, your credentials will come from the Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor Program, which is run under the Health and Human Services Commission. In order to attain the credential, you will need to have met specific requirements. Chief among those are your education and background, including an extensive internship period.
Also Check: Why Are Pain Pills So Addictive
Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs At The Recovery Village
The Recovery Village has locations throughout the United States with open positions available at our facilities and nationally through the Nobu telehealth app for substance abuse and behavioral health counselors. Our staff collectively holds over 3,000 professional credentials, and our evidence-based approach to addiction treatment has earned our facilities a variety of accolades. Our organization is accredited by The Joint Commission, one of the leading health care accreditors in the United States. View the most current available positions at our job portal website.
Additional Licensing Requirements For Substance Abuse Counselors
Every state requires licensed professional addiction and substance abuse counselors to pass an exam. The National Counselor Examination , administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors, is used in some states. Other states use an exam administered by the National Certification Commission for Addiction Professionals, which offers Master Addictions Counselor certification to those who qualify. Some states may also require applicants to undergo a criminal background check, and to pass a state jurisprudence exam, which tests the applicants knowledge of state laws pertaining to counseling. As with other aspects of licensure in substance abuse counseling, it is crucial to research the specific requirements for your state of residence.
Also Check: How To Help Someone With Addiction To Alcohol
Salary Information For Substance Abuse And Behavioral Disorder Counselors
Substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors earned a median annual salary of $41,070 in 2016, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. On the low end, substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors earned a 25th percentile salary of $32,470, meaning 75 percent earned more than this amount. The 75th percentile salary is $52,690, meaning 25 percent earn more. In 2016, 102,400 people were employed in the U.S. as substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors.
References
How Long Does It Take To Become An Addiction Counselor In Arkansas
An addiction counselor plays a vital role in the development and healing progress for any patient who has addictive tendencies. Addiction is a serious mental health issue and one that is broad and diverse. Some examples of addiction can include alcohol, drug, sex, gambling, food and pornography addictions. Many people struggle with developing habits that can ruin lives, including the lives of loved ones around them. As important as it for addiction patients to receive the proper counseling and in some cases, medication with their treatment, it’s crucial to have the right addiction counselor by their side to motivate, education and congratulate them on their progress. If you are contemplating becoming an addiction counselor in Arkansas, there are some standard and specific things to know about this state, including how much time it takes from beginning to end to become a certified addiction counselor. Do you have an unlimited amount of time to become certified or just a year or two? The resources and commitment level at your disposal will make a difference as you embark on your educational and training in their field.
Don’t Miss: Where To Get Free Help For Drug Addiction
Occupational Outlook For Addiction Counselors
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts the demand for addiction counselors will rise by 22% by 2028, which is over four times the average job growth rate. The median pay in 2018 was around $44,630.
Demand is expected to grow for a few reasons. The criminal justice system is finding people with drug-related crimes are less likely to commit them again if they receive treatment. As a result, many are given mandatory treatment and counseling as part of their sentencing. Additionally, telehealth services are growing in popularity, which allows people in underserved or rural areas to receive much-needed recovery resources.
New Mexico Counseling License Requirements
Nearly 4,000 counselors were working in the five major counseling fields in the state of New Mexico as of May 2018.1-5 If you want to work as a professional counselor here, you will likely need to become licensed, and, for most types of counseling, you will need a masters or doctoral degree in counseling. Keep reading to learn how to become licensed as a Professional Clinical Mental Health Counselor , as well as find information on other types of counseling licenses in the state.
Also Check: Can You Become Addicted To Xanax
Substance Abuse Counselor Job Outlook
Employment for substance abuse counselors is projected to rise by 23 percent, or 23,800 new jobs, through 2026, the BLS reports. Several factors will contribute to the increased demand:
- More states are making a push to provide counseling and treatment to drug offenders rather than sentence them to jail time or prison.
- The continued fight against prescription pain relievers and other drugs, including heroin and fentanyl. The National Institute on Drug Abuse reports that the economic burden of prescription opioid abuse is more than $78.5 billionannually.
- Improved access to treatment centers and recovery services for drug abusers.
Job prospects are expected to be best for substance abuse counselors with bachelors and masters degrees, the BLS notes. Although advances in pain management practices, new research into pain and addiction, and the production of non-addictive medications and technologies could eventually ease demand for substance abuse counselors, these developments are in their early stages and have not had any significant impact on the nations need for trained substance abusecounselors.
How To Apply Apply For An Alcohol And Drug Counselor License
Alcohol and Drug Counselor Licenses must now be applied for and renewed on-line using the BSAS eLicensing System. In order to get access, please contact Ian Bain by phone at 774-6627.
Online
Alcohol and Drug Counselor Licenses must now be applied for and renewed on-line using the BSAS eLicensing System. In order to get access, please contact Ian Bain at .
Don’t Miss: What Makes You Addicted To Cigarettes
What Courses Will I Need To Take To Be A Substance Abuse Counselor
While the specifics of the addiction counselor training you will need to complete may vary based on your states requirements and your substance abuse counselor degree program, you should expect to take courses in counseling theory, case management, and treatment planning. You may also need to take a course in pharmacology. As part of an undergraduate substance abuse counselor program, you should also plan to take general education courses including communications, biology, and mathematics.
Do I Need To Have A Degree In Addiction Counseling To Be An Addiction Counselor
A bachelors degree in addiction counseling demonstrates your knowledge about working with people who have substance use disorders, but states have different rules about the education levels they require.
If you have an undergraduate degree in an unrelated field, you could get a masters degree in addiction counseling in order to start working as a counselor for the first time. Counseling programs to consider include Addiction Studies, Psychology, Social Work, or Counseling.
Professional mental health counselors may be able to shift their focus to addiction by pursuing certifications from NCC AP.
The National Board for Certified Counselors also issues a Master Addictions Counselor certification.
Recommended Reading: How To Stop Phone Addiction
Registered Addiction Counselor: Pre
A Registered Addiction Counselor must be at least 21 years old and in possession of a high school diploma or GED . The individual may not have had problems with substance abuse or compulsive gambling in the prior two years. In order to earn the credential, the individual must have 270 hours of ADRA-approved coursework. At least 180 hours must relate specifically to treatment of substance abuse issues. Six hours must be in ethics. The remaining hours may consist of other supportive coursework. One university credit hour is considered the equivalent of 15 clock hours. One continuing education unit may be counted as ten clock hours.
The trainee will need 6,000 hours of supervised experience . Included in the experience requirement is a 300 hour practicum. The practicum experience must address the 12 core addiction counseling functions there must be at least 20 hours of practicum in each function. Functions include the following: screening, intake, orientation, assessment, treatment planning, counseling, client education, case management, crisis intervention, referral, record keeping, and consultation with other credentialed professionals.
The supervisor may be a Certified Clinical Supervisor or other professional who has been granted a waiver.
Addiction Specialist Certifications & Licensure
Currently,addiction specialists only need to be licensed in 27 states and theDistrict of Columbia. Licensing requirements vary by state andaspiring professionals should check with their local board to learnthe steps they need to take.
Addictionspecialists may pursue certification as a national certifiedaddiction counselor through TheAssociation for Addiction Professionals. While not required, it can help with employability.
Thosepursuing this career as a certified counselor, however, are requiredto be licensed in all 50 states. Licensing is also done on a state bystate basis and requirements vary. Certification can be obtained as anational certified counselor , and subsequently as a masteraddiction counselor , through the NationalBoard for Certified Counselors.
To qualifyfor the National Counselor Examination , applicants must have anaccredited masters degree in counseling ,official transcripts, a specific number of supervised work hours, a processing fee, and other requirements.
The NCEexam itself consists of 200 multiple-choice questions across eightcore areas. Candidates have three hours and 45 minutes to completeit.
You May Like: How Are Video Games Addictive
Addiction Specialist Specializations & Degree Types
Educationrequirements for addiction specialists vary based on the role theyfill.
Socialworkers helping clients with addiction may have an associate orbachelors degree in psychology or behavioral health with anemphasis in addiction. However, most addiction specialists arecertified counselors which requires at least a masters degree.There are numerous masters programs across the country inaddiction counseling. Some students may choose to simply complete amasters in counseling and complete an additional certificate inaddiction. Professionals looking to further their education canpursue a doctorate in psychology or even an MD in psychiatry.
Are There Prerequisites
The degree level youre seeking will dictate your prerequisites. If youre enrolling in a substance abuse counseling associates program, youll generally need a high school diploma or GED equivalent.
For bachelors degrees, most schools request some or all of the following elements:
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Satisfactory SAT or ACT score
- Personal essay
Graduate degrees in psychology or substance abuse counseling usually require students to provide:
- Minimum GPA
- Satisfactory score on GRE
- Bachelors degree with coursework in psychology, counseling or other fields
Every school is different and may require more items from applicants, so always check with the admissions office to ensure youve provided all necessary information.
Recommended Reading: How Does Alcohol Addiction Affect The Family
Are You A Good Fit
Texas substance abuse counselors have diverse personalities, backgrounds, and motivations for joining the profession. However, they are all interested in helping addicts recover from their problem. Thus, they all have an open mind with regards to the addict’s plight. Rather than a punitive approach, substance abuse counselors see substance abuse as a mental health issue rather than one of bad behavior. They tend to be compassionate and seek to understand the plight of their clients.
While you will need an understanding attitude you will also need to learn how to have strong boundaries. As part of your training, you will learn how to be kind and compassionate, but also objective and discerning. Alcohol drug addicts are known to be manipulative, and to have histories of deep trauma. Your task will be to find compassion for their pain, but also to maintain a healthy distance. This distance will help you provide the best care and to be a guide for someone in recovery.
