Program Description
This certificate is designed in order to prepare students to work in an entry-level position in the varied field of addiction treatment. Students will be introduced to the effects that substance abuse and chemical dependency have on society; and gain an understanding of what addiction is, the different drugs that are used (both legal and illegal), how to work with those who have physical and psychological addictions, the various types of treatment and counseling approaches. Students who pursue this certificate may bring varied levels of understanding and experiences; therefore, an emphasis is placed on basic helping skills, ethics in the helping profession, and cultural sensitivity to encourage self-reflection as a competent helper. This program will provide students with foundational information and knowledge to function confidently as an assistant in the area of substance abuse and addiction treatment; and can serve as professional development for those currently working in the field of substance abuse and addiction treatment.
This program falls under the federal guidelines of Gainful Employment programming. For important information regarding program costs, debt, and potential earnings, please click here.
Career Opportunities
Successful graduates of this program can seek employment in entry-level positions and assist in providing services as an intake caseworker in a variety of settings such as:
- Rehabilitation Treatment Programs
- Outpatient Substance Treatment Centers
- Sober Living and/or Halfway Houses
- Detox Centers
Program Objectives
Upon completion of the program, the student will be able to:
- Identify biological, social, and psychological effects and causes of substance abuse, chemical dependency, and addictions.
- Demonstrate a cultural awareness of substance abuse, chemical dependency, and addictions.
- Demonstrate a basic set of helping skills for entry-level employment in the field of addictions counseling (i.e., interviewing skills, conduct assessments, monitor/record client progress, case management).
- Collaborate with other helping professionals to assist in planning/coordinating treatment.
- Demonstrate cultural sensitivity, critical thinking, and ethical characteristics of a helping professional.
Obtaining the Certificate
To earn the certificate, students must:
- Matriculate into the certificate program.
- Satisfactorily complete all certificate requirements.