Course I: The Basics of Addiction Counseling (85 clock hours)

I - A Basic Knowledge: Physical and Pharmacological Effects
I - B Diversity of Intervention and Treatment Approaches
I - C Knowledge of 12 Step and Mutual Aid Groups

Course II: Basic Counseling Skills and Methods (150 clock hours)

II - A Individual Counseling
II - B Group Counseling
II - C Effects on Family – Counseling Families and Significant Others
II - D Counseling Special Populations
II - E Relapse Prevention
II - F Vocational Education Counseling
II - G Communicable Diseases: HIV/AIDS, STDs, TB, Hepatitis
II - H Human Growth and Development

Course III: The Core Functions of Addiction Counseling (70 clock hours)

III - A Assessment and Evaluation
III - B Case Management and Referral
III - C Treatment Planning, Client Record Keeping and Discharge Planning
III - D Patient, Family and Community Education and Prevention

Course IV: Ethics for the Addiction Counselor (45 clock hours)

IV - A Counselor Ethics
IV - B Confidentiality/Legal Issues
IV - C Counselor – Client Relationships
IV - D Counselor Wellness

Course V: Practicum (300 hours)*

V-A Clinical Evaluation
V-B Treatment Planning
V-C Referral
V-D Service Coordination
V-E Counseling
V-F Client Family and Community Education
V-G Documentation
V-H Professional and Ethical Responsibility

*Not required in every state

The ICDS distance learning program offers college credit to it's students through the American Council on Education (ACE) and it's participating schools and through the University of Phoenix.

Up to 18 college credit hours can be transferred into the American Council on Education's participating schools, and up to 22.5 college credit hours can be transferred into the University of Phoenix's bachelor's or associate's degree programs.

For a breakdown of which courses qualify for college credit see the college credit page.

Do I need a degree in addiction counseling to become a counselor?

Many states require a minimum of an Associate's degree in the behavioral sciences, as well as an education in addiction counseling. The addiction counseling education does not have to be from a college or university.

Why choose ICDS over a college or university?

ICDS, though not a college or university, offers the same quality curriculum and education. Because our curriculum is specialized for prospective addiction counselors, you will finish faster and pay a lower tuition. You will also have the benefit of developing relationships with people working in the field through your instructor and mentor.

Once I've applied and paid, what happens next?

Your books and materials are shipped to you and an instructor is assigned by the administrative office. Your instructor will contact you and give you access to the ICDS private forum.. Here you can communicate with your instructor and other distance learning students. The forum is intuitive and easy to use.

What is a Mentor and Proctor and how do I find them?

Before starting the ICDS distance learning program you need to secure a mentor and a proctor.

If you don't have a possible mentor in mind, we recommend contacting treatment centers in your area. A currently licensed/certified drug and alcohol counselor, LPC, LMSW, MA in Counseling Psych or Clinical Psych, CCJP, or CPS will be appropriate. We are also happy to help you find a mentor.

Your proctor will be responsible for final exams. Your mentor can be your proctor, or you can obtain a formal proctoring site through your local college or university.

What if I only need part of the course to become certified/licensed. Can I take only one or two courses, if necessary?

Yes. We will work with you to decide which courses you need to satisfy the certification/licensure requirements in your state. Individual course prices are listed under the tuition tab on this page.

Where will I be able to gain employment?

Working in a number of different areas such as Residential Treatment; Outpatient Treatment; Outreach; Screening and Referral community programs; TDCJ; Dual Diagnosis Programs; Adolescent Programs; Women with children; Domestic Violence Victims or Offenders; Criminal Justice Programs; Veteran’s Programs; Employee Assistance Programs; Prevention Programs, Court Diversion Programs.

How long does it take to complete the training?

Six to nine months on average. There is a 90 day time limit per course. Most States have four courses, leaving you 360 days total to complete the training.

Will a criminal history affect my ability to become a drug and alcohol counselor?

Criminal history standards/statutes are different for every state. For information on criminal history standards that might affect you, contact the licensing body of your state. We are also happy to assist you with any questions you have regarding criminal history and you can contact us at 866-523-2669.