Exploring Career Paths in Addictions Counseling

Addiction can be a lifelong struggle—one that is incredibly difficult to overcome. People who become addicted to drugs and alcohol, gambling, or other stimuli, or those have been diagnosed with substance use disorders, often rely on treatment provided by counseling professionals. They may also require the support of their friends and family members in order to overcome addiction.

If you are passionate about helping others and want to make a difference in the lives of people affected by addiction, now may be an excellent time to consider addictions counselor career paths. A master's degree in addictions counseling can equip you with the advanced skills required to specialize in this area.

Why Pursue a Master’s in Addictions Counseling?

A master's in addictions counseling is a graduate program that prepares students to treat clients struggling with substance use disorders. The curriculum provides an understanding of the biological, social, and psychological factors that contribute to addiction and  a strong theoretical and practical foundation in evidence-based addiction treatment and counseling services. 

Why should you consider pursuing a master's in addictions counseling?

• Demand for addictions counselors is increasing steadily, along with the growing awareness of addiction as a public health issue.
• A career in addictions counseling can be rewarding on both personal and professional levels.
• Addictions counselors can find work in a variety of settings—clinics, hospitals, treatment facilities, community health centers, or private practice. 

What You’ll Learn in a Master’s in Addictions Counseling Program

Designed specifically for professionals who want to specialize in addictions counseling and substance use disorder treatment services, a master's degree in addictions counseling offers a rigorous curriculum in which you can hone the advanced skills required to practice in this field. 

Throughout a master's in addictions counseling program, you will learn how to develop and implement evidence-based treatment plans for your clients, better advocate for their individual needs, and use clinical skills safely and effectively.

Core Subjects and Specializations

The University of Minnesota College of Continuing & Professional Studies (CCAPS), for instance, offers the Master of Professional Studies in Addictions Counseling. This is a 30-credit degree program that allows you to complete coursework at your own pace; you are required, however, to complete the program within five years. The core topics covered include:

• co-occurring substance use and mental health disorders
• counseling ethics
• psychopharmacology
• cultural awareness in counseling
• group counseling skills
• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Motivational Interviewing
• assessment and treatment planning for clients with substance use disorders

Hands-on Training and Internship Opportunities

While the core courses are intended to expand your foundational knowledge and improve your clinical skills, the program also requires the completion of internship hours, giving you critical hands-on experience working with clients. Students will fulfill a minimum of 880 hours in a supervised internship position at an agency that has been approved by program faculty members. The internship requirements not only enable you to develop valuable professional experience, but they also help you to meet the educational Minnesota Licensed Drug and Alcohol Counselor (LADC) requirements. 

Career Paths with a Master’s in Addictions Counseling

The master's in addictions counseling degree is an innovative graduate program that allows you to explore this in-demand specialty. As a result, earning this degree equips you with the industry-specific skills required to pursue a wide range of addictions counselor career paths.

Below are some of the careers that you can consider when you earn a master's in addictions counseling:

Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC)

A licensed alcohol and drug counselor, or LADC, is a certified professional who specializes in addictions counseling. According to Cleveland Clinic, an LADC has the advanced skills and experience required to provide expert care to individuals suffering from substance use disorders. These disorders range in severity, and LADCs work to assess their clients and develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses their unique circumstances.

Job responsibilities you may have as an LADC include:

• assessing and evaluating clients
• developing comprehensive, evidence-based treatment plans
• providing counseling services
• intervening in the event of an emergency or when a client may be in danger
• educating clients and their loved ones to ensure they have the necessary information and support
• referring clients to additional programs so they can receive comprehensive care as they work to overcome their addiction

Social Service Assistant

Social service assistants are professionals who frequently work alongside social workers to provide individuals and their families with additional support. They may specialize in addiction social services or work with people suffering from addiction and their loved ones. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), social service assistants may be responsible for:

• determining what individual clients need to live full and productive lives.
• helping clients access the services and assistance they need.
• exploring options for assistance and ensuring that clients have access to such resources.
• helping clients complete required paperwork so they can access further assistance and programs.

Alcohol and Drug Counselor

An alcohol and drug counselor is a trained mental health professional who offers counseling treatment services to those struggling with addiction to drugs or alcohol. According to the BLS, these counselors work to:

• evaluate the behavior of their clients and assess their need for counseling treatment services.
• offer counseling services to help clients understand the root cause of their behaviors and to develop strategies that can help them change these behaviors.
• provide ongoing emotional support as their clients navigate their recovery and learn to live without reliance on drugs and alcohol.

Clinical Supervisor

A clinical supervisor is a healthcare professional who oversees treatment providers and helps them develop and improve their skills over time. Clinical supervisors have the opportunity to specialize in addiction treatment services and may oversee addictions counselors. According to Indeed, clinical supervisors work to: 

• manage clinical staff at a healthcare treatment facility.
• verify that staff remain in compliance with regulations and guidelines.
• streamline operations in order to ensure patients receive the personalized care they need.

Program Manager

Program managers often oversee initiatives designed to help individuals diagnosed with substance use disorders along with their loved ones who may be affected by their addictions. These managers are responsible for finding funding for their programs, developing evidence-based programming, and implementing programs so that individuals suffering from addiction can access them. 

Youth Services Coordinator 

Youth services coordinators create and implement programs for young people who are at risk of developing substance use disorders, suffer from addiction, or have a parent or guardian struggling with addiction to drugs or alcohol. They work to develop specialized services for young people afflicted by addiction.

Certification and Licensure Requirements

To become certified, you will need to meet both state and national licensure requirements. These requirements may vary based on the state where you intend to practice, as well as the certification program you are pursuing. In general, continuing education and professional development are necessary in order to maintain your certification. Some national certifications available include:

• NAADAC
• NBCC
• IC&RC

Is a Master’s in Addictions Counseling Right for You?

This graduate degree program is ideal for anyone who wants to elevate their career in counseling and specialize in addictions counseling and treatment services.

1. Understanding Your Motivations

Evaluate your personal and professional goals before you enroll. The master's in addictions counseling features a rigorous, skills-based curriculum, making it an excellent choice for those who want to specialize in this treatment area and pursue a position in counseling.

2. Assessing Your Career Goals

Identifying your short-term and long-term career goals can help you decide whether now is the right time to begin the master's in addictions counseling degree program. If you are a counseling professional with some experience, or you have recently completed an undergraduate program in a related field, you may be well-suited to this program.

3. Weighing the Pros and Cons

As with any major decision, it is important to weigh the benefits and disadvantages of enrolling in a graduate degree program. Consider the time commitment, your capacity to take on academic coursework, and the financial investment required.

How to Get Started on Your Journey

If you are ready to take the next step, you can get started by:

• verifying that you meet all admission requirements for the program.
• applying for and enrolling in the master's in addictions counseling degree.
• applying for financial aid and scholarships.