ASSOCIATE OF ARTS

Substance Abuse Counseling

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration has estimated that only one out of every ten abusers receive appropriate treatment. These figures indicate a considerable gap between the services that are needed and those that are available. The gap may be even greater within Native American communities.

The LCOOCC Substance Abuse Counseling program recognizes the need for certified Native American counselors within tribal communities and beyond. This two year Associate Degree program will provide students with knowledge, skills, and training necessary to become a certified professional counselor. This degree program fulfills the Upper Midwest Indian Council on Addictive Disorders education and training requirements for the Certified Substance Abuse Counselor I credential, (CSAC), and is fully endorsed by the UMICAD.  The program also fulfills the education requirements for the Wisconsin Certification Board.

STUDENT PROFILE

As an aspiring counselor, you should be willing to:

• set educational and certification goals, and develop a plan to achieve them

• stay current with changes in the field

• adhere to ethical codes of conduct in your professional and personal life

• think critically when evaluating research material

PREPARATION FOR ADMISSION

The following qualities and experiences may help prepare you for admission into this program:

• previous employment in a human service setting

• a familiarity with substance abuse treatment services

• strong written and oral communication skills

• a desire to help people in need

CAREER PREPARATION

As a practicing counselor you will be expected to:

• abide by the legal, ethical and administrative codes and statutes that govern your practice

• demonstrate competency in the twelve core functions of substance abuse counseling

• understand the limitations of your training and make appropriate referrals

• make a commitment to professional growth by incorporating research into clinical practice

CAREER OUTLOOK

Graduates of this degree program may pursue a Baccalaureate of Social Work degree at UW-Superior through the 2+2, or begin their career within a broad range of professional settings:

• Tribal health care clinics

• Tribal residential treatment centers

• Tribal and private treatment services for corrections clientele

• assessment and referral agencies

SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELING COURSES