CADC (MHACBO) - Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor

The CADC certification is designed for professionals specializing in the counseling of individuals with alcohol and drug use disorders. This certification recognizes a standard level of knowledge and expertise in substance abuse counseling, including assessment, treatment planning, case management, client education, and adherence to ethical standards.

Completion Time: 3 hours

Eligibility and Certification Requirements

• A minimum level of education, often a high school diploma or bachelor’s degree, depending on the certifying body's requirements.

• Completion of specific coursework in alcohol and drug counseling.

• A defined number of hours of supervised experience in substance abuse counseling.

• Passing the IC&RC ADC National Certification exam.

Exam Format

This computer-based examination may be taken in-person at a designated testing center or online via live remote proctoring.

The CADC exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering areas such as the pharmacology of addiction, counseling theories, treatment planning, ethics, and professional practice.

Certification Process

Meet the educational requirements as stipulated by the certifying body.

Complete the required hours of supervised practical experience in substance abuse counseling.

Apply for the CADC examination through the relevant certifying body.

To pass the CADC certification exam, you need to score at least 500 on a scale of 200-800.

CADC certification requires renewal every two years, which involves obtaining continuing education credits focused on alcohol and drug counseling, and adherence to ethical standards.

Continuing education for CADC-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.

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

Career Opportunities

CADC-certified professionals often work in substance abuse treatment centers, private practices, community health centers, and other settings providing addiction services.

They play a crucial role in the treatment and recovery process of individuals with substance use disorders.

Other related certifications include:

• 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)

• IC&RC Advanced Alcohol & Drug Counselor (AADC)