The job of a counselor who works with people who are addicted to alcohol, drugs, and other substances is a rewarding one that requires a lot of skill, knowledge, and experience. Those who wish to pursue a career in the field of substance abuse should know exactly what it takes to be certified in order to be able to work with these individuals.
Even though a bachelor’s degree is often considered enough to receive certification for counselors in all states, an additional master’s level in this field is needed in some states and preferred by many others. Online Counselor Master’s Degree While state laws may require certain education and training, online counselor degrees are the best academic program for those wishing to become a counselor because of its flexibility.
In addition to continuing education requirements, counselor degrees also have set curriculums which can be tailored to fit the individual counseling student. These programs typically include subjects like medical terminology, social work, human resources, and ethics. These counselors may also go on to receive additional training that includes coursework on legal issues relating to substance abuse. Other areas that may be covered include: marriage and family therapy and treatment centers, and juvenile and adult corrections.
Becoming a certified counselor requires an applicant to undergo a screening process which is usually administered by the National Association of Therapists and Counselors (NAST). In some states, the individual seeking a certification must have a masters or doctoral degree from an approved institution such as an accredited university, college, or professional organization.
Once the program is completed, the counselors will receive either a certificate of completion or an associate degree. In some cases, some counselors who complete this training and certification may then choose to enroll in a two-year or four-year graduate program that can provide them with the necessary skills and knowledge in order to become an addiction specialist.
If you are interested in becoming a counselor who works with people who are addicted to alcohol, drugs, and other substances, finding out more about the steps involved in becoming certified is important for you. In many states, there are requirements that must be met before you can begin a substance abuse counseling career. Whether or not you meet these requirements of your state, the training and certification process will ensure you the knowledge, skills, and tools you need to be an effective substance abuse specialist. When choosing an online training or online school, make sure the program is accredited by NAST.
