Program Description:

The Addictions Counselor Program (ACP) Certificate provides the required coursework and fieldwork experience to be eligible for Massachusetts certification as a substance abuse counselor. Program graduates are prepared to take the required certification and state licensing examinations. Students are provided an in-depth knowledge of alcohol/addictions treatment programs and current treatment modalities. Students must take two field placement courses, totaling 300 hours, in an alcohol/addictions treatment facility. This experience allows students to work on the core functions of substance abuse counseling: assessment, treatment planning, case management, crisis intervention, client education and documentation. The program is completed through a one-year, three-semester curriculum, requiring 29 credits.

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Career and Transfer Outlook:

Certification as a substance abuse counselor enhances employment prospects in a wide range of human service and human resource careers. Human service professionals who hold a bachelor’s degree or advanced degrees may enter the certificate program to obtain state certification or to expand career opportunities. All courses in this program may be applied to the Human Services associate degree.

Helpful Hints:

It is recommended that students with Reading Placement Test Scores of 68 to 75 enroll concurrently in ENG 075 or ENG 085.

Program Outcomes:

Graduates of the Addictions Counselor Program (ACP) Certificate program are prepared to:

• Describe the resources and required eligibility of the current treatment options of the substance-abuse treatment system;
• Demonstrate effective communications skills, including group and individual counseling skills, oral and written communications, and computer research proficiency;
• Identify and practice ethical standards as set forth by the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and National Certification Boards;
• Demonstrate an understanding of the major factors of multicultural diversity and the importance of pluralism in our society;
• Acquire and demonstrate an understanding of relevant theory and research as it applies to clinical practice and service delivery.