Chemical Dependency Counselor

The Chemical Dependency Counseling program develops specific skills and abilities needed to provide comprehensive alcohol and other drug treatment. Course work addresses a wide-range of issues and ethics in substance abuse treatment, including the twelve counselor core functions: screening, intake, assessment, client orientation, treatment planning, counseling, case management, crisis intervention, client education, referral, report and record keeping, and consultation with other professionals. The Chemical Dependency Counseling Associate degree exceeds the minimum standards for application for certification as a Certified Addictions Treatment Counselor II (CATC II), established by the federal Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, and certification agencies in the State of California and includes 7-units of supervised field work. Degree completers will qualify to apply for certification as a CATC II through state approved certification boards. Completion of the Associate of Science degree will assist students in obtaining entry-level and more advanced employment opportunities

Annual completers: 5

Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:

✓ Students will demonstrate skills and abilities and appropriately apply knowledge to chemical dependency counseling settings and situations.

✓ Students will acquire sufficient hours of experience in the twelve core counseling functions as required by California certification agencies in the context of a field work practicum.

✓ Students will demonstrate communication skills (verbal, non-verbal and written) that insure that they can work effectively with clients and other professionals in diverse communities.

✓ Students will understand and demonstrate ethical behavior in a variety of challenging and diverse environments and situations.

✓ Students will display an appreciation and respect for people from diverse backgrounds, including, but not limited to, cultural elements such as age, gender, race/ethnicity, sexual orientation/identification, religion, ability/disability, and socio-economic status.

✓ Students will be exposed to the General Education pattern necessary to obtain an Associate Degree

The program requirements consist of 10 core courses, 2 field work core courses, and general education requirements.