Drug Rehab Certifications, Training Programs and Schools

<p>Each state has its own criteria for certifying drug addiction counselors. You can obtain the education necessary to meet the requirements through a program approved by the state certification board. In addition to being certified by the state, you can take a certification exam administered by a professional organization. However, some professional organizations require that you first be certified by the state before you're eligible to be certified by the organization. Check with your state's Department of Public Health for certification requirements before choosing a program. </p> <p /> <table border="1"><tr><td><b>Program Options</b></td><td> State board, online schools; substance abuse counseling</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Training</b></td><td> Recognize addictions, counseling, case management, in-the-field training</td></tr> <tr><td><b>Certification Options</b></td><td> Programs approved by state; certification exam from a professional organization</td></tr> </table><h3 id="section---WhatTypesOfTrainingProgramsAreAvailable">What Types of Training Programs Are Available?</h3> <p>You can take a certification program developed by your state board and administered by community colleges, technical schools and universities. You could also take certification programs from an online school or university. If you're seeking a bachelor's degree, you can minor in substance abuse counseling, receiving the education credits necessary to take the state certification exam. You might take the substance abuse training program in a school's department of psychology, social work or human services. You can find these programs at the following schools: </p> <ul><li>University of Massachusetts - Boston </li><li>Los Angeles City College </li><li>Intercoast Colleges </li><li>University of the Pacific </li><li>Montgomery County Community College </li></ul><h3 id="section---AreThereTrainingCoursesAtTheMasterSLevel">Are There Training Courses at the Master's Level?</h3> <p>If you already have a degree and are seeking to add to your skill set, you can choose to obtain a graduate certificate in drug rehabilitation. Some states have varying levels of certification, based on education and experience, and will offer a more advanced certification for a student with master's-level education. </p> <h3 id="section---WhatWillILearnInTraining">What Will I Learn in Training?</h3> <p>Some programs have a fieldwork component or internship requiring you to complete hands-on training before receiving certification. Once certified, you'll have to complete a certain number of continuing education hours to maintain professional certification. Both professional organizations and schools offer continuing education training in the field, covering topics such as: </p> <ul><li>Techniques for counseling addicts </li><li>Identifying signs of addiction </li><li>Group treatment </li><li>Case management</li></ul>