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Featured Online Addiction Counseling Programs
What is Substance Abuse Counseling?
An addiction counseling professional is a person who helps others overcome their addiction to drugs, alcohol, or even behaviors in some situations. This person may work in a hospital, clinic, or private practice. They may also work in an outpatient setting, such as a community mental health center. Addiction counselors use a variety of techniques to help their clients including individual and group therapy, family counseling, and cognitive-behavioral therapy.
Addiction counselors must have at least a master’s degree in counseling or a related field. They must also be licensed by the state in which they practice. In some states, they must also pass a certified addiction counselor exam. Most states require that counselors complete continuing education credits every year to maintain their license.
Addiction counselors help people with substance abuse disorders and mental health disorders. They typically work with clients who have alcohol use disorders, drug use disorders, or both.
Top Ranked Campus & Online Addiction Counseling Programs in Virginia
William & Mary
Score: 88.02
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $25,040
- Out-of-State: $49,412
- Net Price: $25,688
- Acceptance Rate: 33%
- Retention Rate: 95%
- Graduation Rate: 91%
- Total Enrollment: 9,654
- Undergrad Students: 6,797
- Graduate Students: 2,857
- Grads Salary: $80,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
Virginia Commonwealth University
Score: 72.56
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $16,458
- Out-of-State: $39,042
- Net Price: $21,294
- Acceptance Rate: 91%
- Retention Rate: 85%
- Graduation Rate: 65%
- Total Enrollment: 28,082
- Undergrad Students: 20,958
- Graduate Students: 7,124
- Grads Salary: $72,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
Regent University
Score: 68.19
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $20,686
- Out-of-State: $20,686
- Net Price: $17,341
- Acceptance Rate: 32%
- Retention Rate: 70%
- Graduation Rate: 55%
- Total Enrollment: 10,337
- Undergrad Students: 4,541
- Graduate Students: 5,796
- Grads Salary: $63,000
- Student-to-faculty: 21:1
Liberty University
Score: 59.69
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $21,222
- Out-of-State: $21,222
- Net Price: $29,913
- Acceptance Rate: 99%
- Retention Rate: 79%
- Graduation Rate: 66%
- Total Enrollment: 96,709
- Undergrad Students: 48,906
- Graduate Students: 47,803
- Grads Salary: $63,000
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
Southwest Virginia Community College
Score: 49.85
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,901
- Out-of-State: $10,904
- Net Price: $9,444
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 58%
- Graduation Rate: 44%
- Total Enrollment: 2,163
- Undergrad Students: 2,163
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $31,100
- Student-to-faculty: 19:1
Online Addiction Counseling Education in Virginia
An online degree in addiction counseling can lead to a rewarding career helping those struggling with addiction. There are many online colleges and universities that offer programs in this field, at both the undergraduate and graduate levels. You can earn your degree online or through an in-state program that is sure to prepare you for state licensure and certification.
An addiction counseling program will typically include coursework in psychology and human services, as well as specific classes on addiction and recovery. Students will learn about the different types of addictions, their causes, and how to best treat them. They will also gain skills in individual and group counseling, crisis intervention, and case management.
Graduates of accredited substance abuse programs are often eligible for licensure as Licensed Professional Counselors (LPC) or Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselors (LCAC), Certified Addiction Counselors (CAC), or Master Addiction Counselors (MAC). In Virginia, those who are ready to receive licensure will be known as either a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor Assistant (CSAS-A) or a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAS).
Find Your Online Substance Abuse Counseling Program
Online Associate Degree in Addiction Counseling (AS)
An online associate degree in addiction counseling is a two-year degree that prepares students for further education in a career as an addiction counselor or allows them to shift to a different field if they decide the addiction counseling profession isn’t for them. These degrees usually take around two years to complete and, if you attend a program that will allow you to transfer your earned credits, you may be able to start a bachelor’s degree as a junior rather than a freshman.
An AS degree in substance abuse counseling will provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to work as an addiction counselor. Students will learn about the different types of addictions, the causes of addiction, and how to effectively treat addicted individuals. They will also learn about the different stages of recovery, and how to help clients through each stage. In addition, students will learn about the various resources available to help clients overcome their addiction.
Online Bachelors Degree in Addiction Counseling BS)
There are many reasons to consider an online bachelor's degree in substance abuse counseling. With this degree, you may be able to get an early start in gaining experience in counseling or at least in roles related to the field. You will not be able to work as a counselor and work directly with patients without more education, but you will be well on your way to gaining a position that will let you help others who are struggling with addiction and provide them with the tools they need to recover. Additionally, you will gain a deep understanding of substance abuse addiction and its causes throughout this portion of your education, and you can choose to focus on a demographic through electives in adulthood and aging, childhood development, and more.
A bachelor's degree in addiction counseling can be an excellent first step on your journey to becoming a counselor. This degree will give you the knowledge and skills you need to work with clients who are struggling with addiction. You will learn about different treatment methods and how to create individualized treatment plans for your clients. Additionally, you will gain an understanding of the unique challenges that come with addiction recovery.
If you are passionate about helping others overcome addiction, then a bachelor's degree in addiction counseling is a great choice for you.
Online Masters Degree in Addiction Counseling (MS or MC)
An online master’s degree in substance abuse counseling can provide you with the skills and knowledge necessary to work with individuals and families struggling with addiction. With this degree, you will be able to work in a variety of settings including hospitals, outpatient clinics, and private practices and it will allow you to gain full licensure in the state of Virginia.
Most programs at this level take two years to complete and will include coursework in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of addiction. You will also learn about the psychological and social factors that contribute to addiction. In addition to coursework, you may also have the opportunity to complete an internship or practicum in an addiction counseling setting, which can help you earn the hands-on experience you need to earn full licensure.
If you are interested in pursuing a career in substance abuse counseling, a master’s degree is the minimum level of education required. With this degree, you will be prepared to work with clients struggling with addiction and help them build a foundation for lasting recovery.
Online PhD Degree in Entrepreneurship (PhD)
Addiction counseling is a field that is growing in popularity. Individuals who are interested in helping others overcome addiction may want to consider pursuing a PhD in addiction counseling. This type of degree can provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively counsel those struggling with addiction.
A PhD in this field provides individuals with an in-depth understanding of addiction and its causes. Additionally, students will learn about effective treatment methods and how to create individualized treatment plans. Students will also gain valuable experience working with clients through practicum and internship opportunities.
Graduates with a PhD in addiction counseling will be prepared for careers as addiction counselors, therapists, or researchers. With the proper credentials, graduates may also be able to teach at the collegiate level. Those interested in this field should be prepared for a demanding but rewarding career helping others overcome addiction.
Online Addiction Counseling Certifications
There are many different addiction counseling certifications available depending on what type of counselor you want to become. Some common certification titles include Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC), Certified Addiction Counselor (CAC), and Master Addiction Counselor (MAC). To become certified, you will need to complete an accredited addiction counseling program and pass a national exam.
The National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC) offers the National Certified Counselor (NCC) credential, which is the most widely recognized certification in the field of counseling. To earn the NCC, you must have a master’s degree in counseling from an accredited institution, complete 3,000 hours of post-graduate clinical experience, and pass a national exam.
Become a Substance Abuse Counselor in Virginia
If you want to become an addiction counseling professional in Virginia, there are a few steps you need to take.
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Step 1: Get a degree in addiction counseling or a related field:
Addiction counseling is a field of study that can lead to a career helping people with addiction problems. There are many different types of addiction counselors, including those who work in residential treatment centers, outpatient clinics, and private practices. Most addiction counselors have at least a bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, or a related field, though in Virginia you must earn a master’s degree. All states require addiction counselors to be licensed or certified. If you're interested in becoming an addiction counselor, you'll need to be comfortable working with people who are struggling with difficult issues. You should be patient and understanding, but also able to set boundaries and stand firm when necessary.
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Step 2: Complete an internship or residency program:
An internship or residency program in addiction counseling can provide you with the necessary training and experience to fully prepare to become an addiction counselor. These programs typically last for one year and, during that time, you will receive instruction in counseling techniques, psychology, and addiction treatment. You will also have the opportunity to work with clients in a clinical setting, which will give you first-hand experience in dealing with addiction. Completing an internship or residency program in addiction counseling can be a great way to jumpstart your career in the field. These programs provide you with the skills and knowledge you need to be successful as an addiction counselor and they also give you the opportunity to work with clients and gain valuable experience. If you are interested in becoming an addiction counselor, consider completing an internship or residency program to get started on your career path.
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Step 3: Pass the National Counselor Examination for Addiction Counselors
The National Counselor Examination for Addiction Counselors (NCAC I) is a credentialing exam administered by the National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC). The NCAC I is designed to measure entry-level counseling skills and knowledge in the addiction counseling field. To be eligible to take the NCAC I, candidates must have completed a master’s degree or higher in counseling from an accredited institution, as well as 300 hours of clinical experience in the field of addiction counseling. The NCAC I consists of 170 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as assessment, diagnosis, and treatment planning; professional orientation and Ethical Standards; group counseling; individual counseling; family counseling; crisis intervention; multicultural counseling; and research and program evaluation.
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Step 4: Become licensed in your state as an addiction counselor
Most addiction counselors are required to be licensed in the state in which they practice. The requirements for licensure vary from state to state, but all states require addiction counselors to complete a certain amount of education and training, pass an exam, and complete a set number of hours of clinical work. To become licensed as an addiction counselor in your state, you will first need to complete a master’s degree program in addiction counseling from an accredited college or university. Once you have completed your education, you will need to pass an exam administered by your state's licensing board. After passing the exam, you will be required to complete a set number of hours of clinical work under the supervision of a licensed addiction counselor.
What Can I Do with a Bachelor's in Addiction Counseling?
A bachelor's degree in addiction counseling can lead to many different career opportunities, though you will not be able to work as an addiction counselor in Virginia without more education. Even so, a bachelor's degree in addiction counseling can help you get your foot in the door at a mental health clinic or hospital, working with the professionals who will be your colleagues in a couple of years after you complete your master’s degree. If you choose not to continue your education right away, you could work as a psychiatric technician or move completely out of psychology and move into business, human resources, or marketing. Those in these fields are well served by a knowledge of human behavior, which you will earn in your bachelor’s psychology courses. Then you can move back into psychology and counseling at a later time or continue in your new field.