How Do I Become a Substance Abuse Counselor in Virginia?
Substance abuse counselors are mental health professionals who assist people who are addicted to controlled substances. Counselors attend to the needs of adults and youth. Most counselors work in detention centers, prisons, jails, homeless shelters and community-based facilities to provide the needed mental health care. Requirements to become a substance abuse counselor in Virginia are outlined by the Department of Health Professionals of Virginia.
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Things You'll Need
- Counselor credentials
- Virginia substance abuse counselor application
- Transcripts
Instructions
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Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC)
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Obtain a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. Complete 400 hours of training, seminars, courses and hands-on experience. Additional instruction is required for substance abuse research and group counseling.
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2
Complete the substance abuse counselor examination and work under the supervision of a credentialed substance abuse counselor. Submit credentials to the certification board if certified in another state or jurisdiction. The examination and supervisory requirements are waived. Candidates who do not have prior substance abuse counseling experience or credentials from another jurisdiction must take the CSAC exam and complete the supervised internship requirements.
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3
Demonstrate competency through supervised counseling sessions with substance abusers. The total number of hours required is 2,000. This didactic training must be performed under the supervision of a licensed and credentialed counselor in the state of Virginia. Submit the completed application and supervisory internship form to the certification board.
Board of Counseling
9960 Mayland Drive, Suite 300
Richmond, Virginia 23233
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References
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