Addiction and substance abuse issues continue to plague millions of people in the United States. If you are interested in helping individuals who are struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, becoming a licensed substance abuse professional may be the career path for you. In this blog, we will take a closer look at the qualifications, education requirements, credentials, and continuing education requirements needed to become a licensed substance abuse professional in Georgia.

Qualifications: To become a licensed substance abuse professional in Georgia, you must meet specific qualifications. To start, you must have a high school diploma or GED. Furthermore, you must not have a criminal record or a history of substance abuse. You must also be at least 21 years old and have the ability to pass a drug test and a tuberculosis screening.

Education Requirements: Education is essential for becoming a licensed substance abuse professional in Georgia. You must complete an approved program that includes a minimum of 270 hours of training. These programs may be offered at universities, community colleges, or vocational schools. The classes will cover various subjects, such as addiction counseling, ethics, and legal issues. Besides the required training hours, you will also complete a supervised clinical experience of at least 300 hours.

Credentials: Georgia offers three levels of substance abuse credentials – Certified Addiction Counselor (CAC), Master Addiction Counselor (MAC), and Alcohol and Drug Counselor (ADC). The CAC level requires you to complete the minimum training requirements, pass an exam, and have a certain amount of supervised experience. The MAC level requires you to have a master’s degree in a related field and meet additional training and experience requirements. The ADC level has no degree requirement but requires you to meet training requirements and have a certain amount of experience.

Continuing Education: To maintain your substance abuse counseling license or certification in Georgia, you must complete continuing education units (CEUs) annually. Georgia requires 35 hours of CEUs every two years, and 5 of those hours must be in ethics.

Renewal and Recertification: Your substance abuse counseling license or certification must be renewed every two years. You will need to fill out an application, pay the renewal fee, and show proof that you have met the CEU requirements. If your certification is not renewed by the expiration date, you will no longer be able to practice as a substance abuse counselor.

Finding a Qualified Substance Abuse Professional: Suppose you or a loved one needs help with substance abuse issues. In that case, you can find a qualified substance abuse counselor by visiting the Georgia Addiction Counselors Association (GACA) website or by using a referral from your insurance provider. You can also contact the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities to find a licensed substance abuse professional in your area.

SAP Evaluation FAQs

1. How do I become a licensed or certified substance abuse professional in Georgia?

To become a licensed or certified substance abuse professional in Georgia, you must typically follow these steps:

• Complete the required education and training.
• Gain supervised experience in the field.
• Pass a state-approved exam.
• Apply for licensure or certification through the Georgia Addiction Counselors Association (GACA) or another recognized body.

2. What qualifications must I have to become a licensed or certified substance abuse professional in Georgia?

Qualifications typically include a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a related field, completion of specific coursework, supervised practical experience, and passing a qualifying exam.

3. How much education and training is required to become a licensed or certified substance abuse professional in Georgia?

The education and training requirements can vary but generally involve completing a degree program, which can take around four years for a bachelor’s and two additional years for a master’s, followed by supervised clinical hours.

4. What types of credentials are available for substance abuse professionals in Georgia?

Georgia offers credentials such as Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) and Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor (LCAC) among others.

5. What are the requirements for continuing education for substance abuse professionals in Georgia?

Continuing education requirements typically involve completing a certain number of hours of approved courses every renewal period, ensuring professionals stay updated in their field.

6. What is the process for renewing my license or certification as a substance abuse professional in Georgia?

The renewal process typically involves submitting proof of continuing education, paying renewal fees, and meeting any other requirements set by the licensing body.

7. How do I find a qualified substance abuse professional in Georgia?

You can find qualified professionals through directories provided by GACA, online searches, or by asking for referrals from healthcare providers.

8. What types of services do licensed or certified substance abuse professionals in Georgia provide?

These professionals offer a range of services, including assessment, counseling, therapy, and support for individuals and families dealing with substance abuse issues.

9. How can I contact a licensed or certified substance abuse professional in Georgia?

Contact information for licensed professionals is often available through directories, websites, or by contacting relevant associations or clinics directly.

10. What are the benefits of seeing a licensed or certified substance abuse professional in Georgia?

Benefits include expert guidance, evidence-based treatment, and a supportive environment for addressing substance abuse challenges.

11. What can I expect during a session with a licensed or certified substance abuse professional in Georgia?

Sessions typically involve assessment, goal setting, counseling, and the development of a personalized treatment plan.

12. What is the average cost of seeing a licensed or certified substance abuse professional in Georgia?

Costs can vary widely, but it’s advisable to check with individual professionals or facilities for specific pricing.

13. What is the difference between a licensed and a certified substance abuse professional in Georgia?

Licensing typically involves meeting state-specific requirements, while certification may be granted by professional associations and often includes additional qualifications.

14. Is there a directory of licensed or certified substance abuse professionals in Georgia?

Yes, directories can be found through organizations like GACA or online search platforms.

15. Are there any resources available to help people access licensed or certified substance abuse professionals in Georgia?

Yes, organizations like GACA offer resources and directories to help individuals access the support they need for substance abuse issues in Georgia.

Conclusion:

Becoming a licensed substance abuse professional in Georgia requires hard work and dedication, but it is a rewarding career path that positively impacts individuals and their families. With the right education, training, and credentials, you can help people on the road to recovery. Remember to meet the qualifications, invest in quality education, and continue to learn and grow through continuing education units. Finally, seek certification, stay up-to-date on renewal and recertification requirements, and look for qualified substance abuse professionals if you or a loved one needs help.