Substance Abuse Counselor

Substance Abuse Counselors focus on aiding in the recovery from drug and/or alcohol addiction. States tend to have multiple levels of licensure for Substance Abuse Counselors to reflect the extent of the person's educational background, training and experience. Substance Abuse Counselor in most states is the highest level (some have the highest level at Independent Substance Abuse Counselor instead). Comparable titles in other states include Independent Substance Abuse Counselor, Addiction Counselor, Alcohol and Drug Counselor, Certified Senior Addiction Counselor, and Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor.

Substance Abuse Counselors in most states possess a master's degree or higher in substance abuse counseling or a related field. Additionally, substance abuse counselors have supervised work requirements (1000 to 3000 hours) and must pass a licensure exam. Counselors often serve as training authorities for lower licensure levels. Continuing education requirements vary by state, but often includes 20-40 hours of specific coursework, lecture series or self-study programs.