South Carolina

What does an Addiction Counselor in South Carolina do? What is Their Job Role?


Few families remain untouched from the scourge of alcoholism and drug addiction. The national epidemic of substance abuse means the need for counselors is greater than ever, and there are many opportunities within the field. The United States Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, estimates the job growth for substance abuse counselors will grow 23 percent by 2026, a rate much faster than job growth overall. As of May, 2017, the median pay for substance abuse counselors was $43,300 per year.


Overview


The South Carolina Association of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (SCAADAC) is the state chapter of the National Association for Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC), also known as NAADAC, the Association for Addiction Professionals. SCAADAC oversees eligibility and certification requirements for substance abuse counselors in the state.


South Carolina Licensing & Certifications for Associates & Independent Counselors


South Carolina offers two levels of Certified Addiction Counselor, CAC I and II, with the latter a higher level than the former. There is a supervisory licensure at the Certified Clinical Supervisor (CSS) level. A Master Addiction Counselor certification is also available for professionals.


All candidates must sign an affirmation of adherence to the Code of Ethics.


Education Requirements


Unlike some other states that do not require more than a high school diploma or the equivalent for addiction counseling, such candidates must possess a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in South Carolina. A candidate may qualify with an associate degree if that degree is earned in some field of human services. The bachelor’s degree may have been earned in any major. The CAC 1 candidate requires at least 270 educational hours relating to core addiction counselor activities. These core activities, as defined by the SCAADAC, include:

  • Intake/ Screening - Determining a client’s appropriateness and eligibility for admission to a program; performing initial administrative procedures for admission to the program.

  • Orientation- The provision of information to the client regarding his/her situation (i.e., legal status, services to be provided, program rules, etc.).

  • Orientation- The provision of information to the client regarding his/her situation (i.e., legal status, services to be provided, program rules, etc.).

  • Orientation- The provision of information to the client regarding his/her situation (i.e., legal status, services to be provided, program rules, etc.).

  • Orientation- The provision of information to the client regarding his/her situation (i.e., legal status, services to be provided, program rules, etc.).

  • Treatment planning - The utilization of the assessment by the client and counselor to prepare a written set of goals to be achieved by the client and the methods by which the client will meet them.

  • Client education- The provision of information to a client which is based on general knowledge and is not unique to the patient’s situation.

  • Crisis intervention - The provision of immediate services to a client in emergency circumstances.

  • Case consultation - The giving or receiving of information, advice and aid between professionals about a particular case.

  • Referral- The placement of the client in the services as indicated by the treatment plan and follow-up with both the client and the service to which he or she was referred.

  • Reports and Recordkeeping - Charting the results of the assessment and treatment plan: writing reports, progress notes, discharge summaries and other client-related data.


While college courses relating to this discipline or other forms of counseling are credited at a rate of 15 hours per semester hour, it is possible to have certain non-academic courses approved for credit. Unless the course is NAADAC-approved, the candidate must clear the course in advance to receive credit. Certain internships may qualify for credit.


The CAC II candidate must have a minimum of 450 educational hours relating to core addiction counselor activities. The CCS candidate must have current certification as a CAC II, and needs at least a bachelor’s degree in the field of human services or a master’s degree in the human service field.


Official transcripts must verify all college work. Candidates should contact their academic institution to request forwarding of official transcripts to the SCAADAC certification commission. Applicants cannot submit transcripts – if they do, these transcripts are not accepted or reviewed.


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 Examiners for Licensure of Professional Counselors, Marriage and Family Therapists, and Psycho-Educational Specialists


The South Carolina Board of Examiners for Licensure of Professional Counselors, Marriage and Family Therapists, and Psycho-Educational Specialists regulates the practice of mental health professionals throughout the state. The Board oversees licensure, renewals, and continuing education requirements for all mental health professionals and applicants in South Carolina. They also review complaints about violations of state regulations and either dismiss or enforce discipline.


Address

Kingstree Building

110 Centerview Drive

Columbia, SC 29210


Phone

(803) 896-4300


Website Address

https://www.llr.sc.gov/pol/counselors/


Licensure:

  • Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC)

  • Professional Counselor Intern (LPC/I)


Reliance specialists ought to likewise finish a monitored task experience demand as well as pass an examination. Counselor credentials are released at 2 degrees: Licensed Dependency Specialist I, or CAC I, as well as also Accredited Dependency Therapist II, or CAC II. SCAADAC furthermore launches Licensed Professional Supervisor qualifications. Capella University provides an online MS in Reliance Studies and additionally a PhD in Dependency Psychology.


Click on this web link to call Capella University as well as ask about their programs. A CAC I may gain a companion's level in human services or a bachelor's level in any kind of sort of area. The possibility should have 270 hrs of coursework pertinent to core counseling functions. Content places include human development and additionally development, aiding links, psychopathology, psychopathology clinical diagnosis, appraisal, social and also social structures, groups, occupation as well as additional way of living advancement, research study and additionally assessment, in addition to experienced alignment.


The CAC II credential may in addition be achieved by people with degrees at the affiliate's or bachelor's degree levels; once again, a level at the baccalaureate level will certainly be approved whatever the substantial. At this level, the person will need 450 human resources of linked education and learning. The credential is not approved till a counselor has 4,000 hrs of experience matching of 4 full time years.


An existing manager will finish the critic's statement and also send it straight to the certification board. Records must also be sent straight from the university. Other training might be confirmed using certifications. A prospect can not be arranged for creation and also oral examinations till all numerous other requirements have actually been met and also the document is full.


Leads that make modifications to their research study will certainly need to submit these ahead of time. The Qualification Settlement will certainly allow approximately 3 efforts at the dental assessment. Yet variable, a prospect must re-apply. If any kind of needs stay unmet 3 years after initial application, the application is no longer legitimate.


NAADAC participants should consist of a replica of their membership card. While there is a member board of the IC&RC in South Carolina, it utilizes qualifications just to prevention experts. Currently, dependency professionals do not go through this company for reciprocity of their counseling credentials. A CAC II that holds a degree at the bachelor's degree level or greater can end up being licensed as a professional supervisor.


You require a minimum of a Partner's degree in a Human Solutions field or a Bachelor's level in any sort of location from a regionally accredited college or college. You need to complete 450 humans resources of Addictions Counseling training/education in the 12 Core Functions: Examining; Intake; Alignment; Examination; Therapy Prep Work; Counseling; Instance Management; Predicament Therapy; Client Education; Suggestion; Records in addition to Document Preserving; Consultation.


People managing chemical dependence problems usually need the support of specifically qualified chemical abuse counselors to overcome their addiction problems. A South Carolina chemical reliance counselor undertakes specialized training to help customers establish healthy and balanced behaviors in handling stress or various other dependence triggers. Specialists could aid consumers find continual support networks, situate job possibilities, or create preparation for a better life.


How to become a substance abuse counselor in South Carolina is a question that most counselors have. The reason being that it's not just about getting a degree, but it's also about the right training to actually become one.


A person who wants to become a substance abuse counselor in South Carolina needs to undergo a rigorous program to be able to learn the basics of the job. This includes getting a master's degree and going through a number of programs before one becomes a certified substance abuse counselor. However, those who are ready to go through this intensive process need to look into accredited schools in the area where they want to attend.


In order to be a substance abuse counselor in South Carolina, you must have completed your bachelor's degree, pass all state exams and also have experience working with alcohol or drugs in a clinical setting. If you do not have all of these requirements and you are not in a position to qualify for a job in substance abuse counselor schools in South Carolina, then you need to find out where you can attend school so that you can gain the right knowledge in the field of drug and alcohol treatment.


Different schools offer different degrees of courses for people to take. You will find that there are many private schools, vocational schools and public colleges that offer the same courses. The only thing that is important is that you should know that all schools have a basic program that everyone needs to take. Once you complete these courses, you will need to submit them to a state-licensed substance abuse counselor school in South Carolina.


There are a number of online schools that offer how to become a substance abuse counselor. You should look into these institutions because the programs offered are almost the same in terms of teaching you the basics of drug and alcohol treatment. The only difference is that online schools provide some online courses on the drug and alcohol recovery process. You will find that the online classes are much more intensive than traditional classroom courses because you can get the best information online.


Getting certified in how to become a substance abuse counselor in South Carolina takes time. The training course usually lasts from two to three years. It is necessary to be able to teach students the concepts of the field of substance abuse counseling, the treatment process, how to prevent relapse and to deal with the challenges that people who are addicted to drugs and alcohol face. There are other courses that teach you about addiction recovery and the role of a drug and alcohol counselor in the addict's life.


The education that you need to get certified in how to become a substance abuse counselor also includes some classroom work as part of the curriculum. You need to be able to teach students the techniques that are used in the treatment of substance abuse and alcohol rehabilitation. There are also clinical experience courses that you need to complete that teach you about drug and alcohol rehab programs.


When looking into how to become a substance abuse counselor in schools in South Carolina, make sure that you get information on the reputation of the institution you choose. You should look for programs that have had great success stories.


There are a number of substance abuse counselor schools that offer online programs. All you need to do is go online and choose one that suits you best.


If you think you may not have all the requirements that are needed to become a substance abuse counselor in South Carolina, you should still consider enrolling in a community college for at least one class or two. Online courses can be completed during your free time so you can finish your degree as quickly as possible.


You will definitely learn how to become a drug and alcohol counselor if you take advantage of the resources that are available to you. This will benefit you in the long run. When you are ready to get the career in substance abuse counseling that you desire, you can apply for a job right away.


Counselor Testing & Examination Process


Candidates for the CAC I designation must take the NAADAC Level 1 examination, which has a written and oral component. Oral examinations are scheduled four times annually, in February, May, August and November. Those aiming for CAC II certification must take the NAADAC Level 2 exam. Those who do not initially pass the written examination may ask to take the test again during the next scheduled examination.


For the oral examination, the candidate must demonstrate competency in all core activities. The candidate must submit a written case history, along with a statement of the philosophy of treatment. These interviews are taped, with the recordings becoming part of the candidate’s file. Should the candidate not successfully complete the oral examination, the tapes remain in the file until the applicant does successfully complete the oral examination.


For the oral examination, the candidate must demonstrate competency in all core activities. The candidate must submit a written case history, along with a statement of the philosophy of treatment. These interviews are taped, with the recordings becoming part of the candidate’s file. Should the candidate not successfully complete the oral examination, the tapes remain in the file until the applicant does successfully complete the oral examination.


The Counselor Certification and Recertification Manual


Applicants must obtain the Counselor Certification and Recertification Manual from the SCAADAC. Applicable forms are included in the manual. The candidate is responsible for ensuring that he or she is using the latest version of the manual and relevant application forms. All candidates must submit the processing fee along with their completed application. All requirements for application and the taking of examination must occur within three years of the candidate’s initial application date. If the candidate cannot meet the requirements within this time frame, all evaluations, applications, official job descriptions and the signed Code of Ethics affirmation of adherence require updating, and a new application fee is necessary. Mail the completed application to:


SCAADAC Certification Commission

1215 Anthony Avenue

Columbia, SC 29201


Once the SCAADAC receives a complete application, an administrative review is conducted. If any additional items are needed for completion, the applicant is sent a checklist. Once the candidate receives a receipt of application confirmation, they may then schedule a written exam. Once the written examination is passed, the candidate may schedule an oral examination, and the SCAADAC certification commission notifies candidates of the testing locations and dates. Prior to the scheduling of any exam, the candidate must pay all fees to the SCAADAC.


Written examination results are sent to the applicant by the testing authority. The SCAADAC certification commission gives the oral examination results in writing to the candidate within 10 days after completion. Results are never given over the telephone or per request.


Criminal Background Check


All candidates must pass a criminal background check, including fingerprinting. The application also includes a question regarding whether a candidate has ever been convicted of a crime other than a minor traffic violation. If the answer is affirmative, the candidate must attach an explanation to the application including how the situation was resolved.


Clinical Supervision Explained


A CAC I candidate must undergo a minimum of 150 hours of clinical supervision, along with 4,000 hours of qualifying experience. This experience must take place within the previous five years. A CAC II candidate requires at least 8,000 hours of experience prior to certification eligibility, also received within the previous five years. The CCS candidate needs a minimum of 10,000 hours of experience over the previous five years, including at least 150 hours of direct supervision by a professional holding the CCS title. In addition, CCS candidates require a minimum of 30 hours of clinical supervision training.


Renewal and Continuing Education


Certifications are good for two years. Applicants will receive a reminder that their certification is due two months prior to the expiration date, and the renewal application and required fee is due 30 days prior to expiration. A late fee is imposed if the applicant does not meet this deadline. Currently, the recertification fee for SCAADAC members is $175 and that for non-members is $225. The late application fee is $50 for members and $75 for non-members.


The applicant must provide documentation, including a signed certification letter of agreement and the list of courses/training relating to the core activities, along with the appropriate fees. These are the recertification requirements:


  • At least 20 hours as an attendee

  • Two hours of professional ethics.

  • No more than 20 of the 40 hours necessary for recertification may be earned at events where the trainer is the applicant.

  • No more than half of the hours required for recertification may be earned via home study and/or online education.

  • An organization, group or institution recognized as knowledgeable in the substance abuse order field must sponsor any continuing education. Non-field courses, such as those in organization, management, operations or administration do not fulfill the educational requirements for either certification or recertification.


Reciprocity


SCAADAC grants reciprocity for those counselors already accredited by NAADAC, or by the International Reciprocity and Certification Consortium (IRCC). Reciprocity is also available for counselors whose state boards use NAADAC or IRCC exams. Such candidates must furnish all of their educational, experience and examination documentation to the SCAADAC. Those who are a member of the NAADAC must submit a copy of their membership card and pay a fee, currently $175. Non-members must pay a fee of $225.


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


Headquartered in Columbia, nonprofit SAADAC’s mission is establishing a statewide addiction counselor association, along with those interested in addiction counseling. It provides public education regarding addiction, prevention and treatment, along with promoting high continuing education standards for the addiction counselor professionals