North Dakota

What does an Addiction Counselor in North Dakota do? What is Their Job Role?


As you begin your professional career, working as a substance abuse counselor, the state of North Dakota has particular rules and regulations you need to follow. This keeps you in good standing with the state.


Overview


Before you begin to work, you’ll need to apply for your license. If this is your first position as a counselor, you’ll receive a temporary license that covers you before you take your licensing exam.


It’s pretty likely that you decided to enter the counseling field before starting college. If you had this plan in mind, you received advising from a faculty member who guided you about the required classes you needed. These courses gave you the foundation for your career—from the theory to the practical, you learned about human development, counseling methods and how addiction develops and grows. The classes you took will also help you as you study for your licensure examination. Keep your textbooks, because you will be reviewing them as you prepare for this all-important test.


Even experienced substance abuse counselors are expected to undergo clinical supervision. A more-experienced counselor will direct your clinical supervision. In fact, this person may even be your direct supervisor in the facility where you work.


Once you have taken your licensure exam, you’re not done with learning. North Dakota, as well as every other state in the U.S., requires its professional counselors to take part in educational opportunities. From seminars to training conferences, you need to apply to take continuing education courses. Keep track of your continuing education hours, because you’ll need to document each class or seminar you took part in. Every two years, you’ll have to submit your continuing education hours so you can renew your license to practice.


North Dakota Licensing & Certifications for Associates & Independent Counselors


In July of 2016, North Dakota altered its licensure levels. Before this date, the state had only one substance abuse counselor level—licensed addiction counselor.


The licensing board (North Dakota Board of Addiction Counseling Examiners, or NDBACE) decided that, if its addiction counselors were categorized in tiered levels, then out-of-state counselors would find it much easier to obtain their needed licensing so they could begin to work right away.


Under the old method, addiction counselors were required to complete additional clinical or academic training before they could begin working. This put a strain on incoming counselors, as well as the state.


Students still in college are now able to remain in trainee status for an additional year as they complete their education.


Finally, the new substance abuse counselor career ladder enables applicants from other states to begin working much earlier.


Before July 2016, the only license available for addiction counselors was the LAC or licensed addiction counselor. After this date, North Dakota’s licensing board now recognizes recovery coaches, addiction counselor trainees (ACT), licensed addiction counselor (LAC) and master addiction counselors (MAC).


Education Requirements


Licensure levels weren’t the only thing that changed in 2016. Educational requirements did as well. Under the old requirements (for ACT, LAC and MAC levels):


Three credits of theory and techniques of treatment; evidence-based treatment methods and models, especially those associated with addictions;


Assessment and diagnostic models based on current diagnostic and statistical manual of the American Psychiatric Association (DSM-5) to include substance-related mental disorders;


  • Latest American Society of Addiction medicine patient criteria

  • Interviewing process, skills and techniques;

  • Ability to conduct individual counseling sessions;

  • Testing instruments (psychosocial tests);

  • Documenting, report writing and keeping records;

  • Verbal communication skills;

  • Minimum of three group counseling skills credits;

  • Minimum of three credits on psychopharmacology;

  • Minimum of three credits on dynamics of addiction, covering historical perspectives of models of addiction; community support and self-help for people with substance abuse disorders; Contagious diseases related to substance abuse.


Under the old requirements, you would also have had to take a minimum of three credits on co-occurring disorders, to include: assessment and diagnosis models in substance related disorders and any co-occurring mental conditions (based on current DSM-5); psychopathology, mental health and mental illness in the child, adolescent and adult populations.


In addition, you would have had to complete a minimum of two credits over professional ethics, to include federal and state regulations on addiction counseling, professional competence and standards, ethics and codes of conduct, values and societal expectations, malpractice and liability, and ethical decision making.


  • At least three credits on human lifespan development.

  • And a minimum of three credits over family systems (family types, family function and addiction in families).

  • At least three credits covering cultural competence and counseling, and multicultural diversity.


The proposed guidelines require at least three credits over theory and techniques of addiction treatment, to include American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) criteria.


New guidelines include three credits on group counseling skills, three credits on psychopharmacology and a minimum of three credits on dynamics of addiction OR the study of alcohol use/abuse.


The proposed guidelines now recommend a minimum of three credits on co-occurring disorders, abnormal psychology and psychopathology.


  • At least three credits over professional ethics has also been proposed.

  • Also proposed: At least three credits on human development over the entire lifespan.

  • A minimum of three credits on family systems has also been proposed.

  • Finally, at least three credits on cultural competence in counseling and multicultural diversity has also been proposed.


The new guidelines greatly simplify educational requirements for students considering a career in addiction counseling.


CACREP Accredited Online Certification


Two types of accreditation are recognized in the United States; institutional and specialized. Institutional accreditation takes the entire institution into account while the specialized focus on professional preparation programs. The Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP) is a specialized accreditation that focuses on master’s and doctoral degree programs in counseling at colleges and universities worldwide. Only already-accredited institutions are eligible for CACREP review. The review for accreditation will center on programs offering graduate degrees in counseling.


Choosing a CACREP-accredited program ensures that the program meets the highest of quality standards. Many counseling specialties are accredited by the CACREP, including addiction counseling. Accredited addiction counseling programs prepare individuals to work with those affected by addictive behavior and their families. Addictive behaviors include alcohol, drugs, food, gambling, sex, and anything else that negatively affects your personal or work life by creating addiction behaviors.


CACREP-accredited programs will focus on treatment models and the phases of addiction including prevention, recovery, and relapse prevention. These 60-semester hour programs will include the application of interventions. When students choose a CACREP-accredited program they can be confident that:


  • the program meets or exceeds national standards

  • the program will focus on professional counseling rather than psychology or education

  • the program has an excellent reputation

  • CACREP graduates statistically receive higher scores on the National Counselor Examination for Licensure and Certification (NCE).

  • the requirements for licensure will be met.


Board of Counselor Examiners (NDBCE)


The NDBCE was established to regulate the practice of professional counseling throughout North Dakota. Their mission is to ensure that counseling practices are “competent, safe, and ethical.” The Board sets licensure requirements and provides examinations for new candidates as well as setting standards for existing practices. The NDBCE also creates and monitors continuing education requirements and investigates any complaints brought against mental health professionals.


Address

2112 10th Ave SE

Mandan, ND 58554


Phone

(701) 667-5969


Website Address

http://www.ndbce.org/


Licensure:


  • Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor (LPCC)

  • Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

  • Licensed Associate Professional Counselor (LAPC)


North Dakota needs reliance counselors to be recognized. They are qualified and managed by the North Dakota State Board of Reliance Counseling Examiners. The Accredited Addiction Counselor (LAC) credential is provided on the basis of education and knowing, supervised training, along with analysis. An in-state prospect will certainly come under board territory while completing training.


The demands can be pleased much faster if one has a master's degree. However, a bachelor's degree is adequate. Capella College supplies an online MS in Reliance Research studies in addition to a PhD in Dependency Psychology. Capella University in addition supplies 3 internet CACREP-accredited programs: MS in Scientific Mental Wellness And Also Health Therapy, MS in College Treatment, and additionally PhD in Specialist Education and learning as well as Assistance, in addition to a COAMFTE-accredited program, MS in Marital Relationship as well as likewise Household Members Therapy.


If coursework has actually presently been accepted, the consent procedure is typically quicker. An approved possibility will certainly receive registration details via email. The examination is given by means of computer year-round. North Dakota has assessment sites in Minot as well as Bismarck. The possibility will bring a duplicate of the credentials email to the assessment web site.


Out-of-state dependency therapists will absolutely need to use confirmation of all licenses, previous and additionally existing. The counselor might make use of reciprocity if the permit is currently in good standing in addition to the other territory's needs that went at least equivalent to those of North Dakota. The Board keeps in mind that reciprocity applications should be accepted by the full Board which the treatment can take as long as a number of months.


Prospects for treatment licensure in South Dakota need to accomplish scholastic in addition to practicum needs. These experiences guarantee theoretical and useful understanding of dependency, therapy, as well as additionally healing. The South Dakota therapist board establishes the demands as well as additionally needs for coming to be a therapist in South Dakota. Academic requirements vary by credential. The Qualified Dependency Therapist (CAC) credential requires prospects to hold a secondary school diploma or equivalent.


IC&RC materials on-line research study guides in addition to practice exams. Method examinations generally include 50 worries as well as also cost $49. Chemical abuse therapist potential customers need to have monitored experience to obtain licensure CAC and also LAC prospects need to live or operate over half their time within the South Dakota therapist board's security location. This requirement consists of paid or overdue job experience helping individuals with problems connected with drug or alcohol reliance.


The South Dakota therapist board could explore prospects referring to training hrs. CAC along with LAC renewals cost $175 as well as also $200, specifically. Several expert companies give training opportunities, magazines, webinars, in addition to task boards. These companies aid members enhance their capabilities and likewise advance their professions. Expert businesses regularly host seminars, meetings, workshops, and workshops associated with reliance as well as also counseling; several of these possibilities achieve proceeding education and learning as well as learning requirements for credentials and likewise certificate rebirth.


This company supplies resources that find addiction, avoidance, and also therapy. Internet site visitors can browse blog write-ups on topics such as parental influence on reliance evasion and also can access publications, posts, along with reports on chemical abuse. CADCA hosts events like the National Management Online forum as well as materials resources on subjects such as cannabis as well as alcohol intake.


Whether you are a young adult who is just starting out as a student in a drug and alcohol counseling school, or you are an adult who wants to advance your career and have your life transformed by the help of an addiction counselor, North Dakota is home to one of the best drug and alcohol counseling schools in the United States. The state of North Dakota is known for its natural beauty, great population, and excellent school system. The state is the home of the University of North Dakota, which is located in Grand Forks.


The best drug and alcohol counseling schools in North Dakota are accredited by the NAACD. This accreditation is one of the requirements of a school to become a NAACD accredited substance abuse counseling school.


Many certified drug and alcohol counselor schools in North Dakota offer their students the benefit of being able to complete their course work while they are still in high school. It is a good idea to take courses in the spring and summer when you are still in high school, so you can be sure that you will be able to transfer those credits to a higher school in North Dakota. Once you have completed your course work, you will be able to apply for your NAACD accredited education and obtain a certification.


If you are a student who already has a college degree, but is interested in continuing your education, there are many online schools that offer degree programs in substance abuse counseling. There are also programs for the adults who already have a college degree and are looking to advance their careers.


You can complete your course work in the classroom, or you can complete your course work online and take classes online through drug and alcohol counselor schools in North Dakota. Many colleges and universities in the state offer online classes so you will be able to earn your degree from the comfort of your home or work.


Many of the certified drug and alcohol counselor schools in North Dakota also offer career options for their students. These programs will help you become an addiction counselor at a drug and alcohol counseling school, and in other types of healthcare fields.


If you have chosen a program at one of the certified drug and alcohol counseling schools in North Dakota, you will be able to choose from over 30 different states as your home state. The course work will include the knowledge and skills you will need to be an addiction counselor. You will also be trained on how to become a social worker or work in many areas of mental health care and substance abuse treatment.


Many of the certified drug and alcohol counselor schools offer internship programs where you will be able to work directly with the substance abuse counselors and other professionals in the programs in the area of drug and alcohol counseling. You will be able to see the work first hand to determine if it is the right career for you.


The state of North Dakota is home to the largest number of drug and alcohol treatment centers in the United States. There are also treatment facilities for many mental illnesses and addictions in the area as well.


Once you are certified as an addiction counselor, you will be able to work in a variety of different areas for a variety of people. You may work in a medical setting, work for a mental health clinic, or in a private practice and work with many different types of people.


Many people choose to work in schools and hospitals. They may choose to become an addiction counselor in the school system or the medical field, as many schools offer such training.


You may also decide to enroll in a community-based program where you work in a clinic or program in the community. You may also choose to work in a prison setting if you are an addict or alcoholic and would like to help others who are facing the same problems.


Counselor Testing & Examination Process


The NDBACE requires all addiction counselors to be licensed before beginning to practice. Once licensed, they are referred to as “licensed addiction counselors.”


Every addiction counselor must have a college degree and the equivalent of about one year of academic study in addiction. The state now encourages its addiction counselors to seek national certification from the Association of Addiction Professionals—this certification is now being required by more employers.


When you come in to take your licensure exam, you’ll be tested with the exam that was developed by the Association of Addiction Counselors. Depending on where you live and work, you’ll take your exam in Fargo or Minot.


In applying to take the exam, you download the application from the NDBACE website, then provide three professional references. One of these has to come from a clinical supervisor, either past or present. Include all references on a Board-supplied form.


Request your official transcripts from the university where you graduated. Your transcript must be sent straight to the board. If you are moving to North Dakota from another state, provide verification of your credentials to practice.


Read and sign the NDBACE code of ethics.


Submit your application electronically or via snail mail.


Clinical Supervision Explained


Clinical supervision in North Dakota works much as it works anywhere else. Addiction counselor trainees, licensed addiction counselors and master’s addiction counselors are required to be supervised by a direct supervisor. If there is no direct supervisor in their office, they can be supervised electronically by a supervising clinician from another location.


Under the laws applicable before July 2016, addiction counselors were supposed to be completed through one of seven NDBACE-approved clinical training consortiums. The board can also approve an individualized training plan for a counselor.


Under the proposed changes, clinical training can be completed through the NDBACE consortiums, an individualized training plan (that the NDBACE has approved), in a university placement or in a consortium.


Both bachelor level and master’s level training are no longer required to log 1,400 hours of clinical training. Bachelor-level trainees must complete 960 hours and master’s level trainees, 700 hours.


Renewal and Continuing Education


North Dakota’s Board of Addiction Counseling Examiners requires every addiction counselor to obtain a license to practice before they begin working as addiction counselors. Licenses expire on the 31st of December of every odd-numbered year; every counselor should have provided proof of their completed continuing education hours before the expiration of their license.


When it’s time to renew your license, complete your continuing education requirements as established by the Board and pay your renewal fee. As long as your license is in good standing, it will be renewed as long as you send your renewal materials in before your license expires.


Every LAC is required to complete 40 CE hours to be eligible to renew their license to practice addiction counseling.

Twenty of these hours are required if you were first licensed between January 1st and June 30th of an odd-numbered year. You don’t need any CE hours if you were first licensed on or after July 1 in an odd-numbered year.


You can’t earn any [new}] CE hours until after your license’s effective date. You’ll only be able to earn CE hours within your current licensing period. You can only apply current CE hours to one licensing period—they cannot be reused in a new licensing period.

To qualify for CE hours, all hours must be related to addiction counseling, best practice techniques or behavioral mental health. You can earn your hours in seminars, webinars and workshops. Your CE hours must enable you to increase your proficiency to practice addiction counseling.


Shortly before the end of your two-year reporting cycle, you are required to submit a signed statement on a Board-provided form. This form certifies the satisfaction of your CE requirement. Show your compliance with CE hours by listing every activity that you took part in to earn your CE hours, as well as the amount of credits claimed for each activity. Include the date(s) of each educational session.


Potential Counselor Career Path Options


  • Addiction Counselor

  • Alcohol and Drug Addiction Counselor

  • Behavioral Health Specialist

  • Certified Addiction Drug and Alcohol Counselor

  • Chemical Dependency Counselor

  • Mental Health Counselor

  • School Counselor

  • Substance Abuse Counselor


Associations & Organizations


North Dakota has one substance abuse counselors’ association within its borders: The North Dakota Addiction Counselor Association. This is the state’s affiliate of the National Association for Addiction Professionals.


This association works hard to make the general public aware of addiction professionals as it helps addiction counselors to unite throughout the state.


Addiction counseling is a difficult field to work in. When addiction counselors can work together, they provide much-needed support to each other.