SJMS

The addiction treatment industry is vast, offering different types of treatment — depending on the severity of the addiction — in an array of settings, including schools, prisons, community health centers, and private rehabs. While the settings vary, you will commonly find a counselor who specializes in supporting individuals with substance abuse, substance use disorders, substance abuse counseling alcohol recovery, and behavioral health. Graduates of our OASAS program are employed in hospitals, behavioral and mental health agencies, schools, universities and other facilities and agencies that provide addiction and substance abuse interventions and support. Highly trained individuals are in great demand in Southern Indiana’s addiction services, and the U.S.

• Either faculty will address it, or students will circulate rumors and other stories attesting to its relative difficulty.
• Without this desire, neither the addict nor the therapist will likely be able to accomplish much other than wasting a lot of time.
• Although most substance abusers may find that they are seemingly blessed with a number of positive side effects of these substances, the reality is that these substances are ultimately very harmful.

Career Opportunities as a Drug and Alcohol Abuse Counselor

The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated some of these efforts because many providers have been forced to adopt virtual counseling. This made it easier to see patients from other states, and to continue seeing patients when they travel or move. But state licensing boards are still trying to figure out how to balance these efforts with patient safety. Licensure and certification regulations contain codes of ethics and standards of practice that must be followed. Anyone who violates these provisions will be subject to disciplinary action, including the revocation of the right to practice in that jurisdiction.

What Is the Average Salary for a Substance Abuse Counselor?

• Future counselors should also complete 270 hours of education in the field as well as six hours of ethics coursework and six hours of HIV/other disease training within six years prior to application.
• Each position requires a unique blend of skills, including empathy, analytical thinking, and a strong foundation in behavioral sciences.
• In most cases, they will hold the same license as a professional counselor or substance abuse counselor.
• The credential education requirements also include 10,000 total hours, or five years of full-time experience working as a substance use disorder/addiction counselor.

Additionally, a comprehensive WSR program could include resources for employees that are parents of adolescents. These requirements ensure that professionals are not only well-prepared academically but also remain up to date with the latest practices and ethical standards in addiction counseling. These advancements highlight a dynamic field where traditional models blend with new evidence-based practices to create comprehensive, supportive networks that address the complexities of addiction recovery. The inclusion of diverse treatment models and support systems helps ensure recovery is accessible and effective for various needs, ultimately fostering long-term wellness and resilience among individuals recovering from addiction. Moreover, approaches like SMART Recovery exemplify the trend toward using evidence-based practices in addiction treatment. SMART Recovery focuses on self-empowerment and teaches self-reliance in managing addictive behaviors.

About Workplace Supported Recovery

Getting certified in this field can include earning a four-year undergraduate degree, graduating from a two-year master’s program, and completing up to 3,000 hours of supervised work experience. However, check your state’s licensing board for more specific information on what becoming an addiction counselor requires in your state. Being familiar with substance abuse counselor requirements by state can help eliminate licensing issues later. Certified alcohol and drug counselor (CADC) certification must be maintained throughout your career. You can contact your state licensure or certification board directly with any questions.

Related Careers

Steps to Become a Drug and Alcohol Counselor

National Helpline

What does a substance abuse counselor do?