MAC (NBCC) - Master Addictions Counselor

The MAC certification is a high-level credential for professionals who have demonstrated expertise in counseling individuals with substance use disorders. It recognizes advanced competency in areas such as assessment, treatment, case management, and prevention.

Completion Time: 3 hours

Eligibility and Certification Requirements

• A Master’s degree or higher in counseling, behavioral science, or a related field from an accredited institution.

• Current licensure or certification as an addiction counselor or a professional counselor. 

• The National Certified Counselor (NCC) is a prerequisite for the MAC specialty.

• A minimum of 500 hours of supervised experience specific to the domains of addiction counseling post-Master’s degree.

• A minimum of 180 contact hours of education and training in addiction counseling.

• Passing the MAC examination.

Exam Format

The MAC exam includes 150 multiple-choice questions covering the areas of orientation to the treatment process (11%), assessment (23%), ongoing treatment planning and implementation (23%), addiction counseling practices and skills (23%), and professional practices (20%).

Certification Process

Meet the educational and licensure/certification requirements.

Complete the required hours of supervised experience in addiction counseling.

Obtain the necessary contact hours of education and training.

Apply for the MAC certification through the NCC AP.

Successfully pass the MAC examination with a score of 75% or greater.

MAC certification requires renewal every 2 years with a $200 renewal fee. 

Renewal involves completing continuing education credits in addiction counseling and related areas.

Continuing education for MACs may include advanced topics in addiction treatment, emerging trends in substance use disorders, updates in counseling techniques, and legal/ethical issues in the field.

For specific information regarding the Master Addictions Counselor certification, including detailed application processes, examination content, and guidelines for maintaining certification, it is recommended to consult directly with the National Certification Commission for Addiction Professionals (NCC AP) or the National Association for Addiction Professionals (NAADAC). They provide comprehensive resources and standards for professionals in addiction counseling.

Career Opportunities

MAC certified professionals work in various settings, including substance abuse treatment centers, private practices, hospitals, community agencies, and government institutions.

They provide advanced counseling services to individuals with addictions, supervise other counselors, and may engage in program development and evaluation.

The NBCC also offers the following certifications:

• Certified Mental Health Counselor (CMHC)

• National Certified Counselor (NCC)

• National Counselor Examination (NCE)

• National Clinical Mental Health Counseling Examination (NCMHCE)

• National Certified School Counselor (NCSC)