Are you interested in becoming a substance abuse or addiction counselor? Pursuing a substance abuse counselor degree online might be for you. This format offers the flexibility needed to continue working full-time while studying—and a degree in the subject is a requirement to work in substance abuse counseling. Substance abuse counselors provide support and treatment to people struggling with alcohol and drug addictions. They offer client evaluations, behavior modification strategies, treatment plans, family education, and referrals to other services, among other support methods.Addiction counseling degree programs include courses in theory and research, practical applications of counseling, and various aspects of substance abuse, addiction, and recovery. Supervised internships or practicums are required for most programs. However, there are many online substance abuse counseling degree programs available.The field of substance abuse counseling is expanding as the need for qualified counselors increases. Employment opportunities for substance abuse counselors are expected to grow by 22% between 2014 and 2024. Consequently, substance abuse counselors can find employment in a wide variety of settings. From health care organizations and state and federal agencies, to schools and private practices, the field offers something for everyone.If you enjoy helping people, are compassionate and patient, and have excellent interpersonal, listening, and communication skills, you will find success in a career in substance abuse counseling. The following information will assist you in determining if an online substance abuse counseling degree program is right for you.
Meet Our Expert: Stephen Pfleiderer, MA, CADC, CAI
Substance Abuse Counselor, San Francisco Intervention
LinkedInOnline Substance Abuse Counseling Degree Overview
| Degree Level | Average Cost | Loan Default Rate | Time Commitment | Early Career Pay | Mid-Career Pay | Unemployment Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Associate | $14,655 | 19.36% | 2 years | Not reported | Not reported | Not reported |
| Bachelor's | $15,997 | 9.79% | 4 years | $26,000 | $35,534 | Not reported |
| Master's | $18,183 | 9.43% | 2+ years | Not reported | $48,000 | 3.3% |
Employment as a substance abuse counselor requires a minimum of a bachelor's degree. However, an associate degree can serve as a foundation for future education. It also allows for entry-level employment as a counselor's support staff. With each degree attained in this field, job, certification, and salary opportunities improve. Substance abuse counseling degrees can be pursued online at each degree level.
Online Substance Abuse Counseling Degrees
Online Substance Abuse Counseling Find Accredited Degrees
Online Substance Abuse Counseling Choose Your Career
| Career | Median Salary | Projected Growth | 2014 Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Substance Abuse Counselor | $39,980 | 22% | 94900 |
| Mental Health Counselors | $43,190 | 19% | 168200 |
| Psychologist | $72,580 | 19% | 173900 |
| Rehabilitation Counselor | $34,390 | 9% | 120100 |
| Social Worker | $45,900 | 12% | 649300 |
Online Substance Abuse Counseling Degree in Action
Meet Our Expert: Stephen Pfleiderer, MA, CADC, CAI
Substance Abuse Counselor, San Francisco InterventionStephen Pfleiderer began his career as an interventionist after struggling with substance abuse in his early 20s. After attending therapy, he realized that his passion lay in helping others recover from substance use and other mental health disorders. He studied Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) under David Burns, MD, and received Level 3 certification as a TEAM therapist.
LinkedInOnline Substance Abuse Counseling Professional Requirements
Internship or Practicum
A supervised internship or practicum is typically required for individuals pursuing a substance abuse counseling degree at the bachelor's level or higher. This provides on-the-job training, and is also a requirement for attaining state and/or national certification and licensure.
State Certification Exam
State certification is necessary for anyone seeking to work in a private practice. While each state has different licensing requirements, a certification exam is the common denominator. Many states offer the National Counselor Examination for Licensure and Certification (NCE), which is a 200-question multiple choice exam. Students who earn a substance abuse counselor degree online should make sure their program is accredited, otherwise they won't be able to pursue certification.
NCAC I
The National Certified Addiction Counselor (NCAC), Level I is a voluntary certification. Obtaining this certification demonstrates specialization in addiction and treatment, and adherence to high ethical standards. Applicants must have at least three years or 6,000 hours of supervised experience as a substance abuse counselor, along with state certification or licensure, and 270 hours of education and training in substance abuse disorder/addiction to complete the 200-question multiple choice exam.
NCAC II
The National Certified Addiction Counselor (NCAC), Level II is a voluntary certification that can assist with advancement in the field of addiction counseling. Applicants must hold a substance abuse counselor degree at the bachelor's level from an accredited institution and state certification or licensure in order to take the 200-question multiple choice exam. In addition, five years or 100,000 hours of supervised experience as a substance abuse counselor, and a minimum of 450 hours of education and training in substance abuse disorder/addiction is required.
MAC
The Master Addiction Counselor (MAC) certification is voluntary. It distinguishes a commitment to providing quality care and services. Applicants must hold a substance abuse counselor degree at the master's level from an accredited institution and state certification or licensure to sit for the 200-question multiple choice exam. Three years or 6,000 hours of supervised experience as a substance abuse counselor, 500 hours of education and training in substance abuse disorder/addiction, and written verification of competency by supervisors is also required.