Certification and Licensing Substance Abuse Counselors

To get started on the path to becoming a CADC, individuals should contact their state’s licensing board or certifying body to find out what requirements they must meet in order to be eligible for certification. They should also research approved training programs or courses in their area that are recognized by IC&RC. Once they have completed their education and gained sufficient work experience, they can then apply to take the IC&RC exam.

• Board-certified music therapists need to renew their certification every five years through the completion of 100 units of Continuing Music Therapy Education (CMTE).
• Once their application has been approved, they can register for the exam which is administered at designated testing centers throughout the year.
• Alternate equivalency paths are available through verifiable coursework and work experience.
• The certification demonstrates a commitment to professional development, which is highly regarded in the healthcare sector and can enhance one’s reputation among peers and employers.

National Certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist (NCPRSS)

The cost of taking the CAP exam varies depending on the jurisdiction where it is taken. The cost of taking the exam varies depending on the jurisdiction in which it is taken; however, it typically ranges from $50-$200 USD. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their certification within 4-6 weeks. After passing the exam, applicants will be required to pay an additional fee for their certificate. Preventing adverse childhood experiences requires understanding and addressing the factors that put people at risk for or protect them from violence.

Step 5: Complete Supervised Work Experience (Timelines Vary)

To attain one’s MAC credential, you must first hold a master’s degree in substance use disorders/addiction. Applicants might also hold an advanced degree in social work, counseling psychology, marriage and family counseling, or some other related field. Other education requirements include three years of full-time work in the field or a total of 6,000 hours of supervised experience as a substance abuse counselor or other professional, state-licensed counseling position. Applicants need 500 contact hours of education in substance use disorders/addiction, six hours of ethics training, and another six hours of training in HIV/other pathogens within the previous six years. Initial credentialing fees are $230 (non-refundable) and renewal fees are $200 (non-refundable). This credential requires that candidates hold a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in substance use disorders/addiction or a related field such as social work, psychology, mental health counseling, etc.

Recovery Coach

• If the program is not CACREP-accredited, then it must meet strict coursework requirements.
• After graduation, future counselors will need to pass an examination as set forth by their state boards.
• They must then submit an application along with required documentation such as transcripts or proof of work experience.
• As of May 2023, the median annual wage for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors was reported to be $53,710, according to the BLS.
• Ultimately, a Bachelor of Science or Arts degree should serve as a minimum standard.
• Once these requirements have been met, individuals must pass an exam administered by the IC&RC/AODA in order to receive their certification.

Renewals must also include evidence of 40 CEU hours, a verifiable work history for the past two years, and a signed statement affirming adherence to the NAADAC/NCC AP Code of Ethics. Counseling professionals who wish to codify their supervisory experience and abilities should substance abuse counseling seek out NCSE credentials. To apply, applicants need to show a minimum formal education at the bachelor’s level. Official transcripts should reflect a regionally accredited institution of higher learning, and all applicants should be licensed counselors in good standing.

The First Step to Becoming a Certified Counselor

State LADC Requirements

Licensed Addiction Counselor (LAC)

Do You Really Need a Drug and Alcohol Counselor Certificate?