How to Become a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor in Louisiana

Susbtance abuse counselors can help people fight addiction to alcohol

Substance abuse counseling can be a rewarding career. Substance abuse counselors work individually and in groups with people who are addicted to drugs and alcohol, as well as the friends and family of those people. In the state of Louisiana, you have to go through a rigorous educational and training program to become a substance abuse counselor.

Instructions

1. Obtain a bachelor's degree in psychology, sociology or another field related to social services. Focus on your studies as much as possible so that you can earn a 3.0 to 4.0 GPA.

2. Apply for entrance into a Master's level program in human services or counseling psychology. You may have to take the GRE exam or another exam as part of the admissions process. The program you select should have a Substance Abuse Counseling certificate as a licensure option.

3. When studying to get your Master's, make sure to take as many substance abuse counseling courses as the school provides.

4. Follow school guidelines to get an internship in counseling psychology. You must intern for at least one year. You also must obtain a year's experience specifically in substance abuse counseling.

5. Get a reference from a supervisor and from a colleague.

6. Sign the Code of Ethics.

7. Apply for a certificate through the Louisiana Association of Substance Abuse Counselors and Trainers (LASACT).

References

• Louisiana Association of Substance Abuse Counselors & Trainers: Specialty Certification Application Packet
• ATTC: Certification Info