AADC (ICRC) - Advanced Alcohol & Drug Counselor

The Advanced Alcohol & Drug Counselor (AADC) certification is designed for experienced professionals in the field of substance abuse counseling. It signifies advanced competency in treating clients with substance use disorders, including assessment, treatment planning, case management, client education, and adherence to ethical standards. The AADC certification is offered by the International Credentialing & Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC).

Completion Time: Preparation time varies based on prior experience and education in substance abuse counseling.

Cost: Varies by certifying organization, but typically $150 - $250

Exam Format

The examination includes 150 multiple-choice questions (25 unscored) covering topics such as assessment, treatment planning, counseling theories and techniques, case management, ethics, and pharmacology of addiction.

Eligibility Requirements

• A Master’s degree or higher in a behavioral science field with a clinical application.

• Completion of 180 hours of formal instruction across the AADC Domains

  • A minimum of 6 hours devoted to counselor ethics and professional responsibility.

• Accumulate 100 hours of structured supervision covering the AADC Domains

  • No fewer than 10 hours are dedicated to each domain.

• Completion of continuing education credits in substance abuse counseling.

• Passing the AADC certification examination.

Certification Process

• Obtain a Master’s degree or higher in a relevant field.

• Gain supervised experience in alcohol and drug counseling.

• Complete the required coursework and continuing education credits.

• Apply for the AADC certification through a recognized certifying body.

Candidates who take the AADC certification examination receive scores on a 200-800 scale, with a minimum passing score of 500. After the examination, candidates can expect to receive official score letters in 2-3 weeks that report a final scaled score and the percentages of items answered correctly in each content area.

AADC certification requires renewal every 2 years, which involves obtaining 40 hours of continuing education credits focused on alcohol and drug counseling and adherence to ethical standards.

Continuing education for AADC-certified professionals may include updates in addiction treatment modalities, emerging research in substance use disorders, legal and ethical issues in counseling, and strategies for client engagement and relapse prevention.

Candidate Handbook

For specific information regarding Advanced Alcohol & Drug Counselor certification, including eligibility criteria, examination details, approved educational programs, and renewal processes, it is recommended to consult directly with the International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC) or relevant state credentialing organizations. These entities provide comprehensive standards, resources, and support for professionals specializing in alcohol and drug counseling.

Career Opportunities

AADC-certified professionals work in various settings, including substance abuse treatment centers, private practices, hospitals, and community agencies.

They provide comprehensive counseling services to individuals with substance use disorders and may also engage in program development, supervision, and training.

Other related certifications include:

• MHACBO Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC)

• ANCB Certified Addictions Registered Nurse (CARN)

• ANCB Certified Addiction Registered Nurse – Advance Practice (CARN-AP)

• NASW Certified Clinical Alcohol, Tobacco & Other Drugs Social Worker (C-CATODSW)