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Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor (CADC)

Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC)

Some people who struggle with substance use disorders may have begun using as a way to self-medicate in response to trauma, grief, depression or other issues, and require specialized mental health support and treatment to help them recover. Alcohol and drug counselors provide therapy and counseling to people who experience addiction as well as other related behavioral problems. They provide treatment and support to help the client recover from addiction or to change problematic behaviors. CDACs provide counsel and support to patients, educate families in the best ways to help in the recovery process, and work with both inpatient clients and those participating in outpatient programs. 


Who are Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselors? Alcohol and drug counselors, also called substance abuse counselors, chemical dependency counselors and addiction counselors are patient, empathetic, and have a strong desire to help others overcome challenges and succeed. They typically work in substance abuse treatment facilities, such as outpatient clinics and residential treatment centers and may work with clients one-on-one and in group settings. They may also work in hospitals, mental health clinics, or private practice. Many incorporate the principles of Twelve Step Facilitation, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, and other evidence-based methods to inform their practice. They teach clients how to manage their addiction and provide them with strategies to help with recovery. Furthermore, they help clients rebuild professional relationships, improve their personal relationships, and find ways to discuss their addiction or other problems with family and friends.

Learn More about the Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor (CADC) Requirements

The IC&RC standards represent the minimum criteria for certification/licensure. Member boards affiliated with the IC&RC may require additional standards that reflect local mandates, regulations, and/or best practices. Please consult with your local IC&RC Member board for specific standards and requirements applicable to your jurisdiction.

Minimum Standards
Experience

  • High school diploma or jurisdictional equivalent requires 6,000 hours of supervised work experience specific to the ADC
  • Associate’s degree in a related field requires 5,000 hours of supervised work experience specific to the ADC Domains.
  • Bachelor’s degree in a related field requires 4,000 hours of supervised work experience specific to the ADC Domains.
  • Master’s degree or higher in a related field requires 2,000 hours of supervised work experience specific to the ADC
  • Click here to review the ADC Domains in the Candidate Guide

 

Education

  • High school diploma or jurisdictional equivalent.
  • 300 hours specific to the domains. Six hours must be specific to counselor ethics.

 

Supervision

  • 300 hours with a minimum of 10 hours in each domain with a high school diploma or jurisdictional equivalent. 250 hours with a minimum of 10 hours in each domain with an Associate’s degree in a related field.
  • 200 hours with a minimum of 10 hours in each domain with a Bachelor’s degree in a related field.
  • 100 hours with a minimum of 10 hours in each domain with a Master’s degree or higher in a related field.

 

Examination

  • Applicants must pass the IC&RC ADC Examination.

Code of Ethics

  • Applicants must sign a code of ethics statement or affirmation statement.

Recertification

  • 40 hours of continuing education earned every two years.

Jurisdiction

  • Individuals must live or work at least 51% of the time in the Member Boards jurisdiction (“at the time of application & testing”)
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