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“After losing my son, Jordan, to addiction, I was tempted to go into the field of addiction counseling. I witnessed firsthand the horror of watching a loved one suffer through their mental illness as countless others do every single day. Counselors who are on the front lines of this epidemic are, in my opinion, heroic and if you choose to go into this amazing career, you are doing what so many of us couldn’t achieve by ourselves. Unfortunately, I couldn’t get my adult son to choose therapy. I’m certain it would have made a difference.”
Linda Weems
The latest data from the National Survey on Drug Use and Health disclose that 19.7 million adults in America aged 12 and above battled a substance abuse disorder. This has caused the country to lose over $740 billion in healthcare expenses, crime-related costs, and lost workplace productivity.
The issue of substance abuse is complex and multifaceted, and it now requires professional treatment and support. Thankfully, seeking medical intervention to win one’s fight against addiction is now easier. This is because there are now many addiction counselors within easy reach today.
If you’re passionate about helping others overcome their addiction problems, you can take up one of the best online Bachelor’s in Addiction Counseling degree programs. They are designed to give students a comprehensive understanding of addiction, its causes, and effective treatment strategies.
Students learn how to assess and diagnose individuals with substance abuse disorders, develop and implement treatment plans, and provide ongoing support and Counseling to help individuals achieve lasting recovery.
Listen to the summary of this article here:
The Lowdown
The best online Bachelor’s in Substance Abuse Counseling degree programs offer students the opportunity to acquire the competencies to make a difference in the lives of people struggling with addiction.
Graduates of these programs are well-equipped to work in various settings, including hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and community organizations. They can also pursue advanced degrees in related fields, such as social work or psychology.
The demand for addiction counselors is expected to rise because of the ongoing opioid epidemic and the increased awareness of the importance of mental health. Graduates of the best online bachelor’s in addiction counseling degree programs can expect to find rewarding careers in this field.
Methodology
We compiled the best online Bachelor’s in Addiction Counseling degree programs that, owing to their features, suit student needs and goals.
Each online undergraduate program has been researched and analyzed using these factors:
- Accredited by a recognized accrediting agency, such as the CACREP-Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs,
- Features relevant course offerings and curriculum, including online courses in substance abuse treatment, counseling theories, and human behavior,
- Taught by faculty personnel with high credentials, including degrees and experience in the field of Addiction Counseling,
- Emphasizes affordability through financial aid options and scholarships,
- Takes pride in excellent student outcomes, such as graduation rates, job placement rates, and post-graduation salaries,
- Earned good reviews within the industry.
15 Best Online Bachelor’s in Addiction Counseling Degree Programs
Purdue University Global
BS in Psychology – Addictions
Purdue University Global offers BS in Psychology – Addictions to prepare students for the National Certified Addition Counselor (NCAC) Levels I and II certification examinations. If you’re someone whose main goal in life is to create a positive change in people’s lives, then this program is for you.
- A comprehensive understanding of addiction, from the process to pharmacology and the recovery process.
- Study ethics for addictions professionals, group counseling, psychopharmacology, chemical and psychological dependency Counseling, and co-occurring disorders and conditions.
- Learn prevention techniques to stop addiction from taking root.
- Develop case-management skills to support clients on their journey to sobriety.
- Discover how to use the scientific approach to evaluate behavior and mental processes.
- Apply psychological principles to address personal, social, and organizational issues.
- Gain hands-on experience by completing a two-term practicum.
As a student in this program, you will be at the forefront of a battle to save lives and restore hope. By gaining the skills and knowledge, you will be equipped to make a real difference in your community and the world.
What Makes This Program Unique:
Purdue University Global’s BS in Psychology – Addictions is accredited by the NASAC-National Addiction Studies Accreditation Commission and approved by the NAADAC-Association for Addiction Professionals. This university is a smarter way to go back to school because of the following reasons:
- They help students find the quickest and most affordable way to earn a degree.
- Students enjoy the flexibility of online classes, allowing them to have more work-life balance.
- They offer a personalized and engaging education tailored to every student’s needs and preferences.
- They provided students with dedicated career advisors to help them with their skills, goals, and strengths.
- They have staff who will discuss potential employers with students, help them craft winning resumes, develop excellent interviewing skills, and build a professional online presence.
Did You Know?
One of the most important requirements you must comply with to be able to enroll in this course is your official college transcripts. International students will need proof of English language proficiency. The university has a program called the Purdue Global Commitment, which gives interested individuals a chance to take undergraduate courses for three weeks without paying any tuition yet.
University of South Dakota
BS in Addiction Counseling and Prevention
The BS in Addiction Counseling and Prevention degree program offered by the University of South Dakota is one of the few four-year courses of its kind in the state. It continuously provides a positive impact on one of the country’s biggest health concerns – alcohol and drug abuse.
- Students must complete 45 major hours of ACP core, 6 hours of specialization, and 9 hours of elective courses.
- Students must complete 120-degree hours to graduate in 4 years.
- Students will be taught by faculty members with over 200 combined years of experience.
- Students will receive assistance in terms of service learning, supervised internships, and shadowing in various addiction prevention and treatment settings.
What Makes This Program Unique:
This bachelor’s in substance abuse degree program has been ranked number one as the Best 2022 Online Substance Abuse Counseling Degree in the nation. Graduates of this course have achieved a 100% passing rate on national examinations for certification and licensure. This university has been a national leader in substance abuse counseling and prevention for almost 50 years.
Did You Know?
The University of South Dakota recommends prospective students take either 30 credits within a year or 15 credits per semester to complete the program in 4 years. The school has developed community partnerships and gained hands-on experiences over the years.
Fort Hays State University
BS/BA in Sociology – Addictions Counseling Track
Fort Hays State University offers both Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science Addictions Counseling Track to help those who want to help those with substance abuse problems find free themselves from the shackles of addiction.
- Classes are completely online to make them accessible to students wherever they are in the world.
- Students get individualized attention from faculty members to ensure they can easily seek help on assignments or projects.
- Students who choose to take the bachelor’s of science or bachelor’s of arts degree program will need to complete a total of 120 credit hours:
- General education requirements – 55 hours
- Free electives requirement – 23 hours
- Sociology major core courses – 21 hours
- Upper-division elective – 21 hours
- Students will also be required to finish 30 credit hours of the addiction Counseling track, including workshops in sociology for Introduction to Addictions, Individual Counseling in Addictions, and Families and Addictions, to name a few.
What Makes This Program Unique:
Undergraduate students who are taking 600-level courses will be automatically registered as such. Graduate students will be registered for a graduate-level version of the degree program containing assignments beyond the said level.
Did You Know?
Fort Hays State University allows students to apply to college any time of the year. To be able to enroll in the addictions counselor degree you must:
- Fill out an online application form.
- Pay $30 for the application fee.
- First-year students applying for the first time are required to do at least one of the following:
- Minimum GPA of 2.25
- ACT composite score of 21
- SAT score of at least 1060
- High school or college transcripts of records
- Pass the college entrance examinations if GPA does not meet the requirement
City Vision University
BS in Addiction Counseling
City Vision University’s BS in Addiction Counseling program will help prepare those who wish to become Certified Addiction Counselors in their state. It will also give them the necessary knowledge and skills to work in substance abuse counseling and treatment centers.
- Students who complete this mental health counseling program will understand the 12 core functions of a certified counselor.
- The BS in Addiction Counseling offered by City Vision University is aligned with NAADAC Addiction Counseling standards.
- This university offers courses that will also prepare graduates for Peer Support Specialist Certification.
What Makes This Program Unique:
The BS in Addiction Counseling Degree Program offered by City Vision University is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission, an accrediting agency recognized by the US Department of Education
Did You Know?
City Vision University is an accredited nonprofit Christian university. They accept undergraduate students with a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent. Applicants do not need to take standardized tests (ACT, SAT, etc.) to enroll. They also allow students to transfer up to 75% of their degree from an accredited college for undergraduate courses and 25% for graduate programs.
University Of Central Arkansas
BS in Addiction Studies
The University of Central Arkansas is the state’s only school that offers a Bachelor of Science in Addiction Studies. This online program prepares those who want to help resolve one of America’s biggest social problems by being an addiction counselor.
- This program is NASAC-accredited.
- The BS in Addiction Studies provides education, clinical training, and technology to help graduates offer addiction counseling and addiction prevention services throughout the state and the rest of the nation.
- Graduates of this online degree will be able to work in outpatient clinics, hospitals, schools, employee assistance programs, government agencies, drug courts, and the criminal justice system.
- Graduates will also be eligible to take the Alcohol and Drug Counselor (ADC) certification examination, which is offered by the Arkansas Substance Abuse Certification Board.
What Makes This Program Unique:
Students taking up the Bachelor of Science in Addiction Studies will need to finish 110 total credit hours to complete the course:
- Core courses – 9 hours
- Related requirements for the prevention and treatment tracks – 17 hours
- Prevention track – 25 hours
- Treatment track – 32 hours
- Minor or courses recommended by the departmental advisor – 27 hours
Did You Know?
The University of Central Arkansas ranks number 27 among the top Addiction Counseling programs in the United States of America. Students who have earned an Associate’s degree must take up the Addiction Studies Treatment track to complete the degree.
They will be required to have a minimum of 2.0 cumulative GPA or an Associate Degree from one of the university’s community college partners, have met the school’s lower-division core requirements, or have accomplished the State Minimum Core.
Indiana Wesleyan University
BS in Addictions Counseling (Major)
The Indiana Wesleyan University – Bachelor of Science with a major in Addictions Counseling teaches the psychological, social, spiritual, and biological aspects of substance abuse and recovery. They will also develop an appreciation for the importance of research, practice, and theory about addiction.
- Students will become ethical, knowledgeable, and competent licensed addiction counselors who will qualify for graduate studies or counseling practice.
- Students will be subjected to experiential learning to develop a sense of respect, compassion, and understanding for other people.
- Students will learn various therapeutic techniques, counseling techniques, and evidence-based practices.
- Students will render 50 hours of counseling lab and 350 hours of field experience in treatment centers.
What Makes This Program Unique:
One of the things that makes this program unique is that students can choose to work with their professors as research assistants to participate in important research projects. By doing so, they will be able to develop skills sought after by most graduate programs and employers.
Students can double major in Psychology and Addictions Counseling to finish the degree program a semester early.
Did You Know?
Indiana Wesleyan University can help you find the best options to make your IWU education more affordable. They have a financial aid estimator so you can have a good idea of how much you will be spending if you enroll in this online addiction Counseling program.
Southern New Hampshire University
Bachelor’s in Human Services – Concentration in Substance Abuse
Graduates of the Bachelor’s in Human Services – Concentration in Substance Abuse at Southern New Hampshire University are well equipped to make a positive impact on their respective communities.
- Students will receive specialized training and tools to provide assistance to sufferers of drug addiction, alcoholism, and other substance use disorders.
- Students will learn culturally responsive strategies, comprehensive care, and critical thinking and decision-making skills.
- Students will know about the 12 core functions of addiction counseling.
- Students will discover the importance of confidential communications in case management.
- Students will be exposed to the intervention, rehabilitation, and prevention processes.
What Makes This Program Unique:
Students can expect to get support from faculty and administration from day one to graduation and beyond. They will be given access to the online classroom 24 hours a day. They will also have learning resources and everything they need to know to reach their goals.
Did You Know?
SNHU sets no class meeting schedules. The school has also maintained some of the lowest online tuition rates in the country. Students may transfer as many as 90 credits from other institutions toward their bachelor’s degree, saving up to 75% in tuition costs.
Liberty University
BS in Psychology – Addictions and Recovery
If you are helping people end their suffering from substance abuse, you can study BS in Psychology – Addiction and Recovery degree program at Liberty University. This university can give you access to the training, education, and tools necessary to guide those who need help recovering from addiction.
- Students will be able to diagnose, assess, and formulate treatment plans for those suffering from substance abuse.
- Students will undergo training on how to provide interventions properly.
- Students will be able to build a strong foundation in faith-based and scientific principles as they take courses such as The Integration of Psychology and Christianity and Social Psychology.
- Students can pursue their Child Life Specialist Certification after completing PSYC 450 – Children in Healthcare.
What Makes This Program Unique:
Liberty University offers its BS in Psychology – Addictions and Recovery program fully online. Students will be able to earn a degree at their own pace and achieve a work-life balance. This university is accredited by the SACSCOC-Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Professors and faculty members have years of experience working in public clinics, rehabilitation centers, private practices, and other facilities. Plus, they work closely with the American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC) to offer completion certificates for most of their online psychology classes.
Did You Know?
Liberty University is recognized by various institutions for its affordability, accessibility, and academic quality. This has led them to rank among the top three online schools in America, ensuring that students will have an edge in their chosen fields.
They are also committed to keeping their tuition fee low for more than eight years now.
Northwestern State University Of Louisiana
BS in Addiction Studies
The Bachelor of Science in Addiction Studies helps students develop a deeper understanding of the human mind, advances in addiction counseling, and addictive behaviors.
Addiction Studies students will take the following courses:
- Introduction to Addiction Disorders
- Family Dynamics
- Screening, Assessment, and Case Management
- Addiction Counseling Skills
- Dynamics of Group Counseling
- Special Populations
- Co-Occurring Disorders
- Pharmacology of Addiction
- Ethics in Psychology
- Senior Research Seminars
What Makes This Program Unique:
After completing the BS in Addiction Studies online program, students will have access to the fastest-growing job fields in the country. They will also be licensed to work as addiction counselors and help make a difference in people’s lives.
Students with a BS in Addiction Studies at Northwestern State University will need to complete 120 total credit hours to graduate. For Biology requirements, students must take a combination of two lectures and two labs.
Did You Know?
The Northwestern State University of Louisiana was ranked 7th by the SR Education Group for the 2017 Most Affordable Online Colleges for Substance Abuse Counseling Degrees. Then, in 2018, they were ranked 6th in the same category.
Ohio Christian University
BA in Substance Abuse Counseling
Ohio Christian University offers on-campus and online classes for those who want to take a Bachelor of Arts in Substance Abuse Counseling. Students can choose fully online classes so they can attend school while on the go.
- Students will be able to integrate Christian principles in decision-making and critical thinking to learn more about addiction counseling.
- Students will assess the needs of persons suffering from substance abuse using diagnostic criteria and treatment planning.
- Students will know how to properly use appropriate counseling techniques with families, groups, and individuals.
- Students will be able to apply knowledge of drugs, ethical codes of conduct, and chemical dependency interventions.
What Makes This Program Unique:
After completing 40 clock hours of chemical dependency training, students taking the BA in Substance Abuse Counseling may apply to the Ohio Chemical Dependency Professionals Board for their Certified Chemical Dependency Assistant status.
Meeting this requirement will allow students to seek entry-level employment, which is required to take the state licensure examination.
Did You Know?
Students must complete 45 total credit hours with 30 credit hours at the 3000 level or above to finish the major. To be licensed in the chemical dependency counseling field in Ohio, students taking the BA in Substance Abuse Counseling must meet the following requirements:
- Successfully complete and pass the licensure test administered by the State of Ohio.
- Be employed in a treatment facility and get supervision of chemical dependency counseling after completing the major.
- Complete education specific to substance abuse counseling.
Alvernia University
BA in Addictions and Mental Health Treatment
Alvernia University offers a Bachelor of Arts in Addictions and Mental Health Treatment to provide addiction counselor aspirants a solid core of knowledge and skills necessary for being a professional in case management, Counseling, administration, prevention, and other areas in the field.
- Students will be taught by faculty members who are highly qualified and dedicated to sharing their expertise and knowledge.
- Studies apply knowledge and theories in various professional settings, exposing them to a real-world workplace to help them develop their network.
All of Alvernia University’s degree programs are Department of Education of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania-approved and Middle States Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools-accredited.
What Makes This Program Unique:
Alvernia University’s Addictions and Mental Health Treatment undergraduate programs complement classroom education with 400 hours of hands-on experience in approved agencies. This gives them relevant exposure to actual clinical environments before graduation.
Did You Know?
Alvernia University has 40 years of experience in the addictions and mental health treatment degree program. It is hailed as one of the oldest (and the best!) of its kind at the university or college level, dominating many rankings.
Catholic University Of America
BA in Human Services Administration
The Catholic University of America offers a Bachelor of Arts in Human Services Administration, which is the online degree program of choice for students who dream of landing a rewarding career in substance abuse counseling, law enforcement, and human service organizations.
- Students will learn all the necessary knowledge and develop valuable skills to pass the DC Certified Addictions Counselor examination.
- Students will be taught by faculty members with professional experience in Human Services.
- Students will have coursework that will prepare them for a successful career in the future.
What Makes This Program Unique:
The Catholic University of America accepts up to 84 credit hours from students’ previous colleges. Students can graduate in two years with transfer credits.
The school also accepts DSST and CLEP exams, ACE military training and evaluated courses, and professional experience portfolios to allow students to complete the program as quickly as possible.
Did You Know?
Applicants for the BA in Human Services Administration are required to submit their high school diploma at least five years before taking the undergraduate program.
For transfer credits to be accepted, official transcripts from a previous university or college must also be furnished. Aside from that, applicants must submit their resume, letter of recommendation, statement explaining the reason for applying, and a 250-500 word statement of intent.
University Of Cincinnati
BS in Substance Abuse Counseling
Students of the Online Bachelor of Science in Substance Abuse Counseling will have a bright future ahead of them as this degree program will prepare them for a career in helping treat the nation’s most harmful disorders.
Enrollees of this addiction study will learn the following at the end of the program:
- Leadership, practice, and group process for substance abuse counseling.
- Helping individuals who are suffering from addiction look for strategies to prevent relapse and speed up the recovery process.
- Fundamental skills are essential for individual Counseling.
- Diagnostic processes and clinical assessment in addiction counseling.
- Developing advanced cultural competencies essential in practicing substance abuse counseling.
- Developing advanced cultural competencies.
- An overview of the substance abuse counseling field and its graduate-level trajectories, such as social work, psychology, and Counseling.
What Makes This Program Unique:
University of Cincinnati’s BS in Substance Abuse Counseling has ranked number 10 for Best Online Accredited Counseling Programs and is considered Best Online Programs by US News & World Report in 2022. This addiction counseling online program is perfect for full- and part-time students.
Did You Know?
This program is 100% online. Students are given financial aid options, including financial aid packages, scholarships, and grants. Applicants can also offset their tuition by applying for FAFSA every year before they enroll.
Upon enrollment, students’ aid eligibility will be evaluated to determine whether it matches their registration. The disbursement may be adjusted if an enrollee attends less than full-time.
Grand Canyon University
BS in Counseling – Emphasis on Addiction, Chemical Dependency, and Substance Abuse
Grand Canyon University’s BS in Counseling – Emphasis on Addiction, Chemical Dependency, and Substance Abuse is offered through its College of Humanities and Social Sciences. It is an online program that prepares aspirants to serve families, private individuals, and communities with genuine compassion and competence.
- Students will be taught about the foundations of addiction and substance abuse, psychopharmacology in the treatment of addiction and substance abuse disorders, trauma, addiction, and substance abuse disorders, relapse prevention in the treatment of addiction and substance abuse disorders, and multicultural counseling in a diverse society.
- Students will also have the chance to develop the necessary skills in assessment, intake, treatment planning, screening, and case management.
- Students will explore various issues in substance abuse counseling, such as encouraging families to get involved in the treatment process, making special considerations when working with children and teenagers, and working with clients with other mental health problems, like anxiety.
- Students will acquire foundational knowledge in related matters, including ethical issues, professional guidelines, and legal standards.
- Students can complete this program fully online for seven weeks for convenience and flexibility.
What Makes This Program Unique:
Earning a BS in Counseling with an Emphasis on Addiction, Chemical Dependency, and Substance Abuse at Grand Canyon University is your first step toward chasing your dream of becoming a successful addiction counselor. Once you graduate, you will be eligible for licensure or certification to practice.
In Arizona, there are three levels of licensure:
- Licensed Substance Abuse Technician (LSAT)
- Licensed Associate Substance Abuse Counselor (LASAC)
- Licensed Independent Substance Abuse Counselor (LISAC)
Did You Know?
This online bachelor’s in Addiction Counseling degree program has a total degree requirement of 120 credit hours:
- General education requirements – 34-40 credits
- Major courses – 72 credits
- Open elective courses – 8-14 credits
Texas Tech University
BS in Counseling and Addiction Recovery Science
Texas Tech University offers a Bachelor of Science in Counseling and Addiction Recovery Science to teach students about human services administration and service delivery, including management of community service and outreach organizations, case management, non-profit administration, and substance abuse prevention and counseling.
- It provides students with a strong foundation on marriage and family therapy, counseling, substance abuse treatment and prevention, and other related matters on mental health.
- It focuses on professional preparedness and service delivery.
- It will teach students coursework that’s grounded in family systems theory and applications in human services settings.
- It will also help graduates develop essential skills in counseling, leadership, administration, cultural competence, and program delivery.
What Makes This Program Unique:
Texas Tech University’s BS in Counseling and Addiction Recovery Sciences degree program offers two optional specialized concentrations:
- Applied Relational Counseling emphasizes a focused study of relationships for those who are interested in venturing into marriage and family therapy and other related fields.
- Addictive Disorders and Recovery Studies – was designed for those who wish to take their degrees to the next level and pursue a profession in Addiction Counseling or Prevention.
Did You Know?
Texas Tech University’s BS in Counseling and Addiction Recovery Sciences degree is taught by faculty members who are also professional practitioners of psychology and marriage and family therapy.
Studying at Texas Tech gives you an opportunity to get involved in the university’s pioneering programs in undergraduate research conferences and student organizations to expose you to real-world situations.
Career Prospects for Bachelor’s in Addiction Counseling Degree Programs
If you’re interested in helping people overcome addiction and substance abuse issues, pursuing an online bachelor’s degree in addiction counseling can open up many career opportunities.
Because more and more people are now aware of mental health and addiction issues here and in the rest of the world, the demand for addiction counselors is rising, making it a promising field for those who want to make a difference in people’s lives.
Salary
The median yearly salary for counselors specializing in behavioral disorders, substance abuse, and mental health is $53,710, according to official statistical data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Salaries can vary depending on location, years of experience, and employer.
The median salary of substance abuse counselors for top industries is as follows:
- Individual and family services – $58,210
- Government – $68,830
- Hospitals – $59,090
- Residential mental health and substance abuse centers – $49,250
- Outpatient mental health and substance abuse facilities – $58,480
Job Opportunities
Graduates of online bachelor’s degree programs in addiction counseling can pursue a variety of roles, including the following:
- Admissions Coordinator
- Crisis Intervention
- Alcohol and Drug Counselor
- Assessment Specialist
- Health Educator/Community Educator
- Program Coordinator
- Case Manager
- Behavioral Disorder Counselor
- Recovery Coach
- Resident Assistant
- Clinical/Mental Health Counselor
- Substance Abuse Counselor
- Counseling Psychologist
- Chemical Dependency Counselor
Job Stability and Outlook
Because of the ongoing opioid epidemic and increased awareness of mental health issues., the job prospects for addiction counselors, mental health counselors, and similar experts in related fields are expected to be favorable.
Addiction Counseling can be challenging and emotionally demanding, but it can also be rewarding for those passionate about helping others. Successful addiction counselors should have strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and the ability to work well under pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can graduates work as Addiction Counselors with only a Bachelor’s degree?
A master’s degree in Substance Abuse Counseling is essential to fully develop the knowledge and skills necessary to provide effective support and guidance.
Many undergraduate counseling degree programs help individuals get a headstart on this noble career path. Whether starting or looking to solidify your expertise, certificate programs offered by community colleges and other career training institutions can prepare you for the road ahead.
These certificate programs can serve as a stepping stone toward earning an associate’s degree or as a way to enhance your knowledge and abilities after obtaining a master’s degree in Counseling or Social Work.
By investing in your education and committing yourself to the cause, you can become a skilled and compassionate substance abuse counselor equipped to provide the support and guidance necessary for individuals to overcome addiction and reclaim their lives.
The journey may not be easy, but with dedication and the right educational background, you can make a difference in the lives of addiction sufferers who need it most.
What courses are typically offered in a Bachelor’s in Addiction Counseling?
- Clinical Psychology
- Case Management
- General Biology
- Personality Development
- Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment
- Orientation to Addiction
- Human Growth and Development
- Psychopathology and Personality Disorders
- Social and Cultural Foundations of Counseling
What are some of the key skills and traits to succeed as an Addiction Counselor?
- Active learning and listening
- Communication skills
- Critical thinking skills
- Compassion
- Interpersonal skills
- Monitoring
- Patience
- Multicultural competence
- Passionate about helping make a difference in people’s lives
- Problem-solving skills
- Service orientation
- Stress management
- Social perceptiveness
Why is accreditation necessary for an Addiction Counseling program?
Accreditation not only allows students to access federal financial aid and state entitlement programs but also provides the flexibility to pursue further education at other accredited institutions.
A degree from an accredited school sets the foundation for achieving certification from the National Board of Certified Counselors (NBCC), demonstrating your commitment to the highest standards of professionalism in Counseling.
Being recognized in the industry is also a plus. Psychology and Counseling programs seek accreditation from the Society of Addiction Psychology (SOAP), the primary leadership body of the American Psychological Association (APA), for reviewing and providing the definition of a doctoral level state licensed psychologist to be proficient in treating addiction.
Summary Points
- Pursuing an online bachelor’s degree in Addiction Counseling can lead to various career opportunities in a growing field.
- Salaries for addiction counselors’ employment and private practice vary, but the median annual salary is around $45,091 to $73,672.
- Addiction counseling can be a challenging but rewarding profession that requires strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and the ability to work well under pressure.
Additional Information:
