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Degrees and Schools
Degrees in substance abuse or addiction counseling can be earned at the associate's, bachelor's and master's levels. Undergraduate and graduate certificate programs are also available in this field. Some general counseling degree programs offer concentrations in substance abuse and behavior disorders counseling. Since licensing in each state varies considerably, it is important for individuals to research the requirements in their state before choosing a program. Some states and jobs only require completion of a certificate program in substance abuse counseling while other jobs or states require a master's degree.
Coursework
Substance abuse and addiction counseling programs will include courses such as the following:
- the addictive process
- counseling the addicted person
- addicted family intervention
- employee addiction
- substance abuse prevention
- behavior management and modification
- group work intervention
- current topics in addiction treatment
Online Classes and Programs
There are numerous online addiction counseling programs available online. Certificate and degree programs at all levels are available from both traditional schools with online programs and online schools. Students should make sure the school or program is accredited by a regional accrediting agency and/or an agency that is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or the US Department of Education.
Employment Requirements
Substance abuse and behavioral disorder counseling jobs vary considerably in their educational and licensing requirements. Some positions are available for those with an associate's degree or certificate in addiction counseling while other positions require a master's degree. Many employers either require or prefer candidates to have a state license in substance abuse or addiction counseling. Those considering this career choice should have superior interpersonal skills and be emotionally stable and resilient since this career can be emotionally draining and stressful.
How to Evaluate Schools and Programs
When choosing a program in substance abuse and behavioral disorder counseling, prospective students should ask the following questions:
- Type of Program - Does this program lead to a degree or certificate? Does this degree or certificate meet the requirements for state licensing and employment?
- Course Options - If the counseling program is generic in nature, are there courses that cover substance abuse, addiction and behavioral disorders? Do these courses fulfill the state's licensing requirements?
- Field Practice - Does this program include field practice? What types of placements are available? If field practice is not part of the program, is this going to affect the student's ability to qualify for a job or obtain a license?
- Costs - What are the program costs? Is there financial aid available? How much will a student need to borrow?
Substance Abuse Counselors Job Description
An addiction to alcohol or drugs can affect every aspect of a person's life including their relationships, job and health. The job of substance abuse counselors is to help people face their addictions and develop healthy behaviors and coping strategies to address their addiction problem. Behavioral disorder counselors work in a similar profession, helping people with behavior addictions such as gambling and eating disorders. Substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors work in hospitals, substance abuse and addiction treatment facilities, outpatient treatment centers, correctional institutions and in private practice.
Substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors typically have some or all of the following responsibilities:
- conducting group therapy sessions
- providing individual therapy
- developing patient recovery programs
- counseling family members affected by disorder
- conducting prevention programs
- consulting with other service providers
Resources
NAADAC - The Association for Addiction Professionals - This organization supports addiction professionals through education, advocacy, ethics, standards, professional development and research.
US Government Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration - The SAMHSA oversees government-funded programs which assist individuals in need of mental health and substance abuse services. They also direct health data collection programs which assist lawmakers in making informed policy decisions in regards to prevention and treatment of mental health illness and substance abuse.
Substance Abuse Program Administrators Association - This organization serves professionals involved with workplace substance abuse programs. It provides education, training, certification, standards and conferences.
National Institute on Drug Abuse - NIDA focuses on research and dissemination of research findings to improve prevention, treatment and policy as it affects addiction and substance abuse.
American Counseling Association The ACA provides leadership training, publications, advocacy, ethics standards and continuing education to its membership of professional counselors.
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