Well, generally-speaking, a certified addiction counselor is a mental health professional that provides counseling services, and support to recovering alcoholics and addicts (i.e. eating, gambling, substance abuse, lying, relationship, etc.). The primary goals of a certified addiction counselor is to help addicts work through their issues so they can attain and maintain a drug-free existence. Certified
addiction counselors work in a: group home, hospital, treatment facility, clinic, private doctor’s office, prison, and half-way house. They may work with clients individually, and in group settings. It is important to note that some substance abuse and addiction treatment facilities hire former addicts, who have maintained sobriety for a certain amount of time, to counsel active addicts through the withdrawal and treatment process. These addiction counselors are not really “counselors” because they have not received formal training or experience in the counseling field, however, they are considered “addiction coaches” and “addiction mentors,” that provide a safe, place for addicts to work out their problems, and talk with someone, who has experienced the “throes of addiction.” Both certified addiction counselors and “addiction coaches/mentors” can make a tremendous difference in the life of someone, who is suffering from an addiction. To become a certified addiction counselor, you will need to earn a bachelor’ degree and a master’s degree in addiction counseling or a related field, and obtain a license and/or certified in the field. 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 bachelor’s degree program, in a field of your choice. In other words, you do not have to earn a bachelor’s degree in addiction counseling, counseling or a related field, in order to enroll in a master’s degree program. You will, however, be required to earn a master’s degree in addiction counseling, counseling or a related field, if you want to seek licensure in the field. Most states require a master’s degree, supervised clinical experience and successfully passing of the licensure exams (i.e. state and national) to practice as an addiction counselor, however, in some circumstances you can become certified with a high school diploma/associate’s/bachelor’s degree, and extensive experience in addiction counseling. Once you graduate with a bachelor’s degree, and enter a graduate program, you will complete a combination of coursework and clinical rotations (supervised internship). Typical Master-Level Courses
Depending on your state and the type/level of certification, you will not be eligible for addiction counselor certification until you have completed between 4,000 and 6,000 hours of addiction counseling services at an approved facility. It is important to note that it will probably take 2 to 3 years of full-time addiction counseling experience to become eligible for certification. Apart from general education and experience requirements, most states also candidates to meet additional requirements. The National Certification Commission for Addiction Professionals (NAADAC)NAADAC offers three credentials for addiction counselors:
What are the Responsibilities of a Certified Addiction Counselor?
How Much Does a Certified Addiction Counselor Earn?According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, mental health counselors can expect to earn approximately $46,240, per year, as of May 2019. Certified addiction counselor may earn more than addiction counselors without this credential. What are the Opportunities for Advancement for an Addiction Counselor?According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the career outlook for certified addiction counselors is favorable. In fact, the Bureau reports that there should be 22% growth in job opportunities in this field by the year 2028. This growth may stem from an increased need for addiction/substance abuse/alcoholism treatment programs. In addition, more and more people are seeking treatment for their addiction problems because they are tired of living an “unclean life,” and they are “sick” of torturing their friends and loved ones with the addiction. Moreover, more and more drug offenders are being sent to addiction treatment centers instead of jail or prison (bls.gov). Related Reading
Useful Resources and References
How do I become a Lisac in Arizona?The applicant must have received a master's or higher degree in a behavioral science with an emphasis on counseling.. The applicant must present documentation to prove the applicant has received at least 3,200 hours of work experience in not less than two years time in substance abuse counseling under supervision.. How long does it take to become a drug counselor in Arizona?Minimum Work Requirements Required To Become An Arizona Addiction Counselor. CAC-2 years or 4,000 hours working with substance abuse clients. Domains listed below. An Associate's degree in Behavioral Science will exchange for 1,000 hours.
What skills do you need to be an addictions Counsellor?Valuable Skills for an Addiction Counselor. Good listener.. Strong desire to help others.. Confidence.. Motivation.. Inspiration.. Excellent communication skills.. Respect privacy.. |