How to Set Up a Drug Counselor Program

With preperation, setting up a drug counselor program is possible.

Drug counselor programs are therapeutic environments offering counseling and treatment for drug abuse clientele. In a 2004 National Survey of Substance Abuse Treatment Services conducted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, there were 16,651 drug and alcohol treatment facilities in the United States. These drug counselor programs provide individual and group therapy to help clients reach their goals of sobriety.

Things You'll Need

• State Drug and Alcohol Counselor License
• Office location

Instructions

1. Get licensed to provide drug counseling services in the state where your business will be operating. Each state makes their own rules on licensing for drug and alcohol counselors in their state. Typical requirements include passing a state test and performing internship hours under the direct supervision of a state licensed drug and alcohol counselor. Visit your state licensing board to determine the requirements in your state.

2. Apply for a business license. All states require a business license to provide services. Licensing fees are minimal, but a lawyer or accountant may be necessary to help with the business license application. Typical business licensing fees are $30 to $100 for a Limited Liability Company or LLC license.

3. Rent office space to provide counseling services. For a professional appearance, it is necessary to have a professional business location. Find an office space which will offer room for growth and look professional when clients enter the facility. A space which has separate smaller offices and a larger group room is ideal.

4. Set up a note-taking system that meets state guidelines for privacy. Every counselor must keep notes on their services with clients. Electronic software programs are available, but not necessary. Notes need to include information on clients' goals and the time frames for accomplishing those goals. Enter a note into the patient file after every contact with that patient, including phone calls, individual appointments and group sessions.

5. Visit local judges, probation officers, schools and social workers to inform them of the services your program will be offering. When setting up a drug counselor program, it is necessary to inform referral sources you are available to help their clients. Judges, probation officers, schools and social workers often have contact with individuals whom they would like to get help for. Make sure to leave pamphlets, business cards and office hours with all contacts you visit.

6. Start seeing clients. As clients begin to come to your office, see patients in a timely manner. It is essential to continuing your relationship with referral sources to provide them with updates on their clients' services. A signed release is necessary to give this information. Consider hiring a secretary, when possible, to help with filing, phones and greeting clients when they first arrive.

References

• Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration: National Survey of Substance Abuse Treatment Services
• Hoptechno: How to Start a Volunteer Anti-Drug Program in Your Community
• U.S. Department of Health and Human Services: Alcohol and Drug Treatment
• International Certification and Reciprocity Consortium: Member Board List

Resources

• Distance Learning Center for Addiction Studies