Mental Health Licensing: A Handy Glossary of Credentials FHE Health

The FHE Health team is committed to providing accurate information that adheres to the highest standards of writing. If one of our articles is marked with a ‘reviewed for accuracy and expertise’ badge, it indicates that one or more members of our team of doctors and clinicians have reviewed the article further to ensure accuracy. This is part of our ongoing commitment to ensure FHE Health is trusted as a leader in mental health and addiction care. OASAS coursework is non-sequential and admission applicants with supporting documents are reviewed when received. Once you complete the application process, you will need to meet ongoing requirements in order to maintain your CCMHC.

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  • Completed applications should be accompanied by a payment of $235, non-refundable, and should include passing scores on the NCC AP’s NCPRSS exam.
  • Their degree should be in psychology, social work, or a closely related field.
  • Though individual states are likely to have widely differing standards for licensure, there are a few general criteria to keep in mind before embarking on a career in addiction counseling.
  • Depending on your state and the type of licensure you plan to pursue, you might also need to complete supervised, post-graduate professional practice as part of your substance abuse counseling training.

The individual providing endorsement cannot be related to the applicant and cannot be the same individual verifying supervision. CADC certification is typically overseen by state licensing boards or nationally recognized professional organizations. For instance, in the United States, each state has its own requirements and governing boards, such as the California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals (CCAPP) or the Board of Behavioral Sciences in California. Prospective counselors should check the specific requirements and processes applicable in their state or region. Complete the form to receive information about the online graduate counseling and therapy programs offered by the Family Institute at Northwestern University. Furthermore, when a person has state licensure in one state, they can either find a state that offers full reciprocity or one that will allow temporary licensure.

Addiction Counselor Graduate Programs

Ultimately, a Bachelor of Science or Arts degree should serve as a minimum standard. Even if a state board currently has lower standards for the field, that is likely to change. At some point, a counselor with a two-year degree (or less) will likely need to return to school to maintain their license. The typical addiction counselor works in a rehabilitation facility with inpatient or out-patient clients. Since each facility is distinct, no two counselor’s job descriptions are identical. Some work in faith-based facilities that focus on specific religious beliefs as a means to recovery, where others might approach spirituality from a less mainstream angle.

What are the basic requirements to become a CADC?

substance abuse counseling certification

Substance abuse counselor requirements tend to vary more by state than other professional counseling roles. This guide provides the typical steps to licensure and clarifies state requirements for substance abuse counselor licensure and certification with a detailed table. In order to practice substance abuse counseling, you must be licensed or certified by your state board. Since every state is unique, check your state regulatory board for how to apply.

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Our program consists of six courses (one course per month); concurrent enrollment in practicum courses start in month two. This examination is being given to fill multiple vacancies in the Behavioral Health Services and to establish an eligible list to fill future vacancies. A completed application must be postmarked or received online by the final filing deadline.

Review the state board website or discuss the matter with an academic adviser. Some states require you to pass similar examinations for mental health licensure. Examples include the National Counselor Examination (NCE) and the National Clinical substance abuse counseling Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE). CACREP is the Council for Accreditation of Counseling & Related Educational Programs. Nearly every state requires counselors to have a graduate degree from a CACREP-accredited institution.

Resources for Professional Development

In a majority of cases, addicts or affected people approach substance abuse and addictions counselors when they’re ready. However, in other cases, affected persons could be compelled to visit a counselor by family members or by police or government authorities. A family might contact a drug addiction counselor for assistance in behavioral intervention, such as when a person’s loved ones confront them about the consequences of their substance abuse.

substance abuse counseling certification

Other Benefits Of Our Online Substance Use Counselor Training Program

Step 4: Learn About Substance Abuse/Addictions Counselor Salaries

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