Every state has different requirements for becoming an addiction specialist. You’ll need a Master’s degree in a human services behavioral sciences discipline before you can pursue drug abuse counseling in Austin TX. Even after you attain your degree, there are a few more steps you’ll have to follow before you can start working in this rewarding field.
Meet Clinical Experience Requirements
Your next step in becoming a drug recovery support specialist in Lakeway TX involves gaining clinical experience. This is done through an internship or practicum. This involves completing a minimum of 4,000 hours of documented work within the substance abuse treatment field. The work hours must be documented and you must receive a minimum of two letters of recommendation from licensed chemical dependency counselors with whom you have worked.
Take Your Licensing Exam
You must take a licensing exam once you have completed your required clinical hours. The exam tests your knowledge of drug abuse counseling in Austin TX. It will cover counseling procedures as well as information about addiction and medical conditions relating to addiction. The exam questions can relate to any topics you studied in pursuing your degree and any data relating to your clinical experience.
Obtain Professional Certification
While obtaining certification through a professional organization isn’t required by state law, it can help you achieve success in your career. Many people who seek addiction treatment will look for a drug recovery support specialist in Lakeway TX with certification. A widely recognized organization is the National Association for Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC). Obtaining certification demonstrates your skills, dedication, and qualifications in the substance abuse treatment field.
Find out where you can start your career path as an addiction counselor when you visit Texas Association of Addiction Professionals.
