Is a Substance Abuse Counseling Degree Right for Me?

For those of you seeking advice on whether or not a substance abuse counseling degree is right for you, consider the many career paths ahead of you. An addiction counseling program can help you gain a better understanding of not only why people turn to drug abuse, but the psychology behind how the brain works.

If you have an interest in helping those with substance use disorders, substance abuse counseling may be the degree for you. As a drug counselor, you can help those of any age.

To achieve a substance abuse counseling degree, you must first attend an accredited college university. Typically, most people will have a master's degree in mental health counseling, social work, psychology, or a related field.

What Is a Substance Abuse Counseling Degree?

A substance abuse counseling degree is necessary for those seeking to have a career in addiction counseling. Those with an addiction counseling degree must complete the education requirements, and receive the necessary certifications and licensures.

To obtain a substance abuse counseling degree, you must achieve a bachelor's degree and participate in a substance abuse counseling program. Additionally, graduates of a master's program can then continue to apply for licensure.

What Does a Substance Abuse Counseling Major Study?

Once you have received a high school diploma or completed the GED test, you can begin your journey to a bachelor's degree. You may be required to achieve certain ACT scores as well. When you major in substance abuse counseling, your coursework will focus on healthcare ethics, addiction studies, and the role of substance abuse counselors.

Those studying substance abuse counseling will need to complete a master's degree program, gain clinical experience, and pass various certificate programs necessary to provide counseling services.

A substance abuse counseling major will also study treatment planning for those suffering from drug addiction. Before achieving a degree, you must take the required prerequisite courses.

Why You Should Consider a Degree in Substance Abuse Counseling

You should consider a degree in substance abuse counseling if you have excellent communication skills and empathy for those struggling with drug use. In fact, there are five specific reasons why you should consider a degree in substance abuse counseling.

Multiple Career Opportunities

In addition to drug counseling, those with a degree may also have the fieldwork necessary to work in other areas of counseling. For instance, some clients may suffer from co-occurring disorders such as a substance use disorder and a mental health disorder.

Additionally, those with this degree may have the credentials to treat patients with other disorders pertaining to behavioral issues and mental health problems. Those suffering from bipolar disorder, post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or other forms of mental illness can find comfort from your counseling skills, whether you have your own private practice or work at an outpatient treatment center.

Helping Others

Counseling provides an excellent opportunity for those who want a hands-on and in-person approach to helping others. It can be rewarding to help family members reunite and learn valuable communication lessons along the way.

Group counseling gives you the option to help those struggling with substance abuse as well as their loved ones. It can be rewarding to work with nonprofit organizations, social services, and healthcare counseling platforms.

Increased Pay

While in school, you may take part in online substance abuse counseling programs and courses. The work experience you gain along the way will be beneficial. In order to utilize your new skills, you may find other job options to consider.

With new job opportunities comes increased pay. Thankfully, there are a wide range of counseling degrees, allowing you to consider multiple job options from entry-level positions to being in charge of your own practice.

Flexibility

The job of a substance abuse counselor allows you flexibility. For instance, you can work part time or full time depending on your needs.

If you have a private practice, you may set your own hours for the week or weekend. This way, you can manage your clients in a setting and environment suited for you.

Continuing Education Options

As a substance abuse counselor, you will be required to participate in continuing education. You must renew your license at certain intervals during your career.

Additionally, those with a substance abuse counseling degree can consider a doctoral degree, opening more doors for a counseling career path. There are several specializations offered with substance abuse programs.

Job Opportunities for Substance Abuse Counseling Degree Majors

There are many job opportunities for substance abuse counseling degree majors. Some of these may include the following:

• social worker
• certified addiction counselor
• social services liaison
• case manager
• mental health counselor
• mobile crisis team counselor
• human services counselor
• behavioral disorder counselor

Substance Abuse Counseling Degree: Questions To Ask Yourself

There are several questions you should ask yourself if you are considering a substance abuse counseling degree.

Is My Career Goal To Help Others?

A strong part of counseling is the objective of helping others. Whether you facilitate individual, group, or family therapy, you are assisting others in the process which can ultimately lead to less drug use.

Am I Interested in the World of Counseling?

Substance abuse counseling is specific, requiring you to know the ins and outs of counseling. As a counselor, you will likely help others in more ways than one. Not only will you need to be prepared for traumatic histories of clients, you'll always need strong advice and the skills to assist your clients.

Do I Consider Myself To Be a Self-Starter?

To become a counselor, you will need leadership skills. Those seeking to have their own private practice one day will need to be a strong, confident self-starter who can multitask.