Chemical Dependency Counselor

The Chemical Dependency Counseling Certificate develops and strengthens specific skills and abilities needed to provide comprehensive chemical dependency treatment. Course work addresses a wide-range of issues and ethics in chemical dependency treatment, including the twelve counselor core functions: screening, intake, assessment, client orientation, treatment planning, counseling, case management, crisis intervention, client education, referral, report and record keeping, and consultation with other professionals. The Chemical Dependency Counseling program exceeds the minimum standards for entry into certification for the Basic Certified Addictions Treatment Counselor (CATC), and CATC 1 certification process, established by the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, and certification agencies in the State of California and includes a 260 supervised practicum. Certificate completers will qualify to apply for certification through state-approved certification boards. Completion of the Certificate will assist students in obtaining entry-level employment toward CATC Basic and CATC 1 certification, and increase promotional opportunities for employees of chemical dependency treatment programs.

Students who complete this program should be able to:

1. Summarize the process of certification required for entry level employment as Addiction Treatment Counselors, and the career ladder opportunities open to them with further education.
2. Acquire sufficient hours of experience in the twelve core counseling functions as required by California certification agencies in the context of a field work placement.
3. Demonstrate communication skills (verbal, non-verbal, and written) the ensure that they can work effectively with clients and other professionals in diverse communities.
4. Illustrate respect and inclusivity with people form diverse backgrounds and communities, including, but not limited to, cultural elements, gender, race and ethnicity, sexual orientation/identification, religion, ability/disability, and socio-economic.
5. Explain and demonstrate ethical behavior in a variety of challenging and diverse environments and situations.
6. Demonstrate skills and abilities and appropriately apply knowledge to chemical dependency counseling settings and situations.

Required courses