Addictions Counseling, Certificate of Completion
Program Description
The Addictions Counseling Certificate of Completion is designed for students interested in supporting individuals and families affected by substance use and related behavioral health challenges. This certificate provides foundational knowledge in addiction theory, counseling techniques, ethics, and community-based intervention strategies.
Students examine the biological, psychological, and social factors that contribute to addiction while developing practical skills in communication, case management, and client support. Coursework emphasizes ethical practice, cultural awareness, and understanding recovery-oriented systems of care.
This certificate may serve students seeking entry-level roles in human services settings or those planning to continue their education in counseling, social work, psychology, or related behavioral health fields.
Transfer Information
The Addictions Counseling Certificate may complement an associate degree in Behavioral Science and Public Service or a related field. Students planning to pursue a bachelor’s degree in social work, counseling, psychology, or human services are encouraged to consult with faculty and Advising & Transfer Services to determine how coursework may apply toward transfer requirements.
Students intending to pursue professional licensure or certification in addictions counseling should review state-specific requirements, which may include additional coursework, supervised clinical hours, and credentialing examinations.
Career Information
The Addictions Counseling Certificate prepares students for entry-level support roles in behavioral health and community service settings. Advanced counseling roles typically require a bachelor’s or master’s degree and state licensure.
With appropriate education and training, graduates may pursue roles such as:
- Substance Abuse Counselor (with additional certification/licensure)
- Behavioral Health Technician
- Case Manager
- Recovery Support Specialist
- Community Outreach Worker
Students are encouraged to consult with faculty and Career Services to explore career pathways, credentialing requirements, and opportunities for continued education in the behavioral health field.
This program of study is the mandatory core of alcohol and drug counseling courses designed to prepare the student for becoming credentialed in New Jersey as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. These specialized courses are approved by the State of New Jersey Board of Marriage and Family Therapy Examiner’s Alcohol and Drug Counseling Committee and by the Addictions Professional Certification Board of New Jersey for the required 270 education hours.
| Code | Title | Credit Hours |
|---|---|---|
| ALDC 101 | Addictions Disorders and Recovery Supports | 3 |
| ALDC 102 | Addictions Counseling: Professional Responsibilities | 3 |
| ALDC 105 | Addiction Counseling Skills | 3 |
| ALDC 106 | Assessing Addictive Disorders | 3 |
| ALDC 107 | Addiction Counseling Methodology | 3 |
| ALDC 108 | Addiction Counseling Client Education | 3 |
| Total Credit Hours | 18 | |
Learning Outcomes
- Identify major drug categories.
- Identify physical and psychological effects of drugs.
- Describe the theoretical foundation pertaining to prevention, intervention, and treatment of clients.
- Identify assessment instruments and intake procedures appropriate for working with clients.