The chronic use of a substance that alters the mind, such as alcohol or narcotics, is referred to as substance abuse. Although the majority of drug abusers may discover that these chemicals come with a lot of euphoric side effects, the truth is that such substances are ultimately quite destructive. For instance, these addictive chemicals can shatter a person’s spirit in addition to harming their physical health. Counselors often develop these plans with other healthcare providers, such as mental health professionals and clinicians.
Types of Counseling Degrees: How to Find Your Specialization
- Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors earned an average annual wage of $53,490 in the U.S. as of 2021, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Counseling sessions help friends and family members understand their loved one’s condition and how to provide support at home.
- Along with academics and experience, most states also require that you pass an exam.
- Prospective students can study and train to become clinical mental health counselors by enrolling in , Northwestern University’s online master’s in counseling program.
- Approaches to treating substance misuse and addiction have undergone many changes over time.
For some mental health, drug, or alcohol disorders, there are medications that can help improve your symptoms. These medicines have to be prescribed by a doctor, nurse practitioner, or physician’s assistant. Hands-on training allows students to engage with clients while being supervised by licensed counselors. They also have the opportunity to practice record substance abuse counseling keeping, attend conferences and workshops, and engage in self-reflection activities that deepen their understanding of self and others. Substance misabuse remains an issue of national importance, highlighting the significance of addictions counselors in our society. Addiction Center reports that almost 21 million Americans have at least one addiction.
- These institutions demand that these employees refrain from using drugs or alcohol for a certain amount of time — often two or three years prior to their employment.
- Good communication skills, respect for confidentiality, and establishing trust with clients are also critical.
- But while the work can be quite emotionally and physically taxing, most counselors find that their passion for helping others far outweighs any negatives.
- 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.
- Becoming a mental health professional who specializes in addictions may seem like a long and intensive process.
- Case management is a coordinated approach that links patients with the proper services to address their needs.
Online Student Experience
Substance abuse and addiction counselors work intimately with clients and families from the initial assessment. It takes a whole team of social workers, counselors, and doctors to develop recovery plans. When needed, counselors must contact other therapists about cases and make referrals, while keeping in compliance with privacy regulations in the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act.
Online substance abuse degree classes that make a positive impact
When counselors are not treating patients, they can become educators and lead workshops, projects, or programs that benefit the community and raise awareness of addictions. Education requirements to pursue such a path may vary, so aspiring professionals should do well to research recommended steps beyond the bachelor’s level. Addictions counselors assess, diagnose, collaborate, and create treatment plans. After diagnosis, they typically plan a number of sessions that will walk the client through their thoughts and behaviors, introduce them to healthier alternatives, and allow them to be accountable for their own actions. They can then monitor the client’s progress and assess how far along they are on their recovery journey. Along with friends and family, addictions counselors inevitably become a part of the support network that clients can rely on.
Ways to save on online tuition
Common program titles include addiction counseling, substance abuse counseling, or addiction studies. 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.
Coordinating With Other Healthcare Professionals
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Why get an online substance abuse degree?
- In the United States, the states regulate and license substance abuse counselors.
- Counselors work with individuals, families, couples, and groups to share a variety of techniques and treatments for coping with problems in ways other than turning to unhealthy substances.
- View the most relevant schools for your interests and compare them by tuition, programs, acceptance rate, and other factors important to finding your college home.
- Once admitted, they may be expected to take prerequisites in addition to foundational courses that dive deeper into counseling theories, practices, and concepts.
- I was able to go back to work, support my husband’s career and my children while concentrating on my education — and doing really well at it.
