Employment in the field of substance abuse counseling is on the rise. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, jobs for substance abuse counselors are expected to increase 34% by 2016; much faster than all other occupations. The reason is simple; more people are receiving treatment because there is greater acceptance of substance abuse and addiction as treatable diseases. Even individuals convicted of crimes while under the influence receive treatment instead of being sent to correctional facilities. Insurance companies are increasingly willing to pay for substance abuse treatment and counseling; it is a lower cost alternative to psychologist fees.
Considerations about Substance Abuse Counselor Training
As this field rapidly expands, both job seekers and prospective employers are asking questions about substance abuse counselor training; unfortunately, there are not always clear-cut answers. The wide array of counseling jobs; the varying requirements from state to state; and the varying definitions of counselor in this dynamic field can be very confusing. Here are some important considerations for planning an agency counseling staff or when planning a career in substance abuse counseling.
Scope of a Counselor
The term "counselor" in the field of substance abuse can be very ambiguous. For some agencies, this means an entry-level position, where only a high school diploma, and perhaps a valid driver's license, is required. Often used in in-patient settings, these positions require more clinical supervision, and include tasks such as facilitating group discussions, transporting patients, and supervising patients overnight.
Some entry level counselors may have been introduced to counseling through their own recovery from substance abuse. Many entry level counselors entered the field because of a presenting job opportunity but are now interested in furthering their education, and advancing their careers. These counselors will benefit from receiving in-house training; provided by the agency's clinical staff and supervisors. Classes in basic counseling skills will be very beneficial (such as active listening and interviewing strategies). Instruction on a wide variety of classes such as database and spreadsheet operation; word processing and clinical documentation; and use of e-mail will help entry level counselors perform basic job functions. Involving the agency's I.T. /I.S. department in the planning of these classes is a good idea.
Some states will require counselors to have advanced degrees in order to obtain licensure. Others will require certification in the field of substance abuse. In such situations, training for counselor development is more advanced. Counselor development plans for licensed personnel should include instruction that qualifies for C.E.U. status (Continuing Education Units). Licensed counselors are required to take a certain number of credit hours each year to maintain their licenses; agencies that provide opportunities for their counselors to earn these credits will help to keep their counselors' licenses current. And since counselors are typically very busy, development plans should include scheduling flexibility (i.e. ability to take classes during work hours).
Agency Requirements
Agencies are required to adhere to the terms of private contracts and grants. This means that the agency will be required to follow specific rules for hiring, developing and licensing counselors. This also is true when funding is received from federal, state and local governments. States may have entire departments dedicated to the training requirements and licensing of counselors.
Additional accreditation for counselors is available through agencies such as the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), The Joint Commission, and the Council on Accreditation of Children and Family Services, also known as COA. These accreditation programs will each have specific requirements for training, licensure and certification. Individuals should become familiar with the requirements prior to seeking accreditation. Agencies should consider these requirements in their counselor development plans. Accreditation boards will expect counseling staff to be trained in core classes; Clinical Treatment Planning, Referral, Service Coordination, Counseling, Client, Family, and Community Education, Documentation, Professional and Ethical Responsibilities, and additional health and safety trainings (such as 15 passenger van driving, HIV/AIDS, Biohazard and Infectious Waste control, Violence Prevention, CPR/1st Aid, and Cultural Diversity).
Tags: substance abuse, development plans, entry level, entry level counselors, field substance, field substance abuse
