Substance Use Disorders Counseling Certificate Program

Substance Use Disorders Counseling Certificate Program at LMU Extension 

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, California has a shortage of 3,940 full-time Substance Use Disorders (SUDs) counselors. This gap is expected to rise to 6,130 by 2030; a trend reflected across the United States. [1] 

Our SUDs Certificate Program believes in creating a wider community of counselors. It’s a gateway to the spectrum of opportunities presented by the value-creation economy. This new economy seeks self-starters, compassionate visionaries, and social justice principles. 

Going into our 16th year, our CCAPP-approved SUDs Certificate can be completed in less than a year, aided by generous tuition assistance and led by a faculty of seasoned, dedicated clinicians working in the field, grounded in social justice and a commitment to excellence. 

Workshops and Information Meetings

Zoom Information Meetings

Learn about the Substance Use Disorders (Alcohol and Drug) Counselor certification process, the types of employers, job expectations, who must become certified to work in the field.  

• How does the program meet California requirements?
• What makes LMU Extension an excellent choice?
• What courses are required?
• When are courses held?
• What makes LMU Extension Instructors better than others?
• How much does the program cost?
• How do I obtain tuition assistance?
• What do I need to know about the program application?
• What do I need to know to succeed in the program?
• The process of becoming an Alcohol and Drug Counselor within the state of California.
• The organizations legally authorized to certify Alcohol and Drug Counselors within California and what they expect.
• What you can anticipate about employment and wages.
• Tips about succeeding while becoming a Substance Use Disorders Counselor. 

Admission Requirements

• You must have a High School or GED degree.
• If you have a history of substance abuse, six months of sobriety is expected.
  
• The classes are online and instructor-led.
  
• Basic computer skills required. 
  

Module

• Foundations of Substance Use Disorders Counseling
• Case Management in the Treatment of Substance Misuse
• Physiology and Pharmacology of Alcohol and Other Drugs
• Counseling in Substance Misuse Treatment (Group & Family)
• Ethical and Legal Aspects of Substance Misuse Treatment
• Professional and Personal Growth for AOD Counselors
• Supervised Practicum, plus 255 practicum hours

The program offered by LMU Extension is approved by CCAPP. Changes made in the requirements and/or processes of CCAPP may result in changes to the program. CAADAC merged into CCAPP. 

This cohort program is designed to provide the tools and skills required to become certified as a Substance Use Disorder counselor in one year. The program provides a total of 315 classroom hours and 255 hours of supervised practicum. 

Required Modules

Professional Literacy:

• Introduction to Substance Use Disorders Counseling
• Case ManagementCounseling - Individual, Family and Group

Leadership:

• Ethical and Legal Standards in Addiction Counseling
• Physiology and Pharmacology of Alcohol and Other Drugs
• Professional and Personal Growth for AD Counselors

Engagement:

• Supervised Practicum 

Certificate approved by the California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals - Education Institute (CCAPP-EI).