If you’ve always wanted to help others, consider the growing field of addiction services. Addiction treatment and prevention agencies across New Jersey employ thousands of dedicated individuals working hard to make a difference in the lives of the people they serve. And more are needed.
The following resources may be helpful as you explore this field more carefully:
A Rewarding Career in Addiction Services
Read NJPN’s brochure highlighting career opportunities in addiction treatment and prevention.
Becoming A Certified Professional
We have put together a short overview that outlines the various requirements involved in becoming a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) or a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC).
The Certification Board, Addiction Professionals Division, has put together overviews related to the many other certifications that are available, including a Certified Prevention Specialist and a Chemical Dependency Associate. Visit their website at www.certbd.com/applications/newapplications.htm to view these overviews.
Internship Opportunities
We have contacted treatment facilities and prevention organizations throughout New Jersey to find out about internship opportunities they offer. Internships can help you get the work experience you need to obtain a paying job in the field. And they can help you gain needed experience hours towards becoming a Chemical Dependency Associate, Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor or a Certified Prevention Specialist. Learn more about the internships available by viewing our Internship Opportunities Manual.
Important Websites to Visit
http://www.state.nj.us/lps/ca/medical/alcdrug.htm.
You can get the application for the CADC/LCADC at this website. Look for the link for the "Regular Application" towards the bottom of the page. You should also read the "Statutes and Regulations" document beginning with page 28.
www.certbd.com
If you received your education from a regionally-accredited college or university, you might not have to take all of the courses towards your CADC. The agency that makes that determination is the Addiction Professionals Certification Board. Obtain a copy of your transcript, and compare the courses you took to the list of courses on page 15 of the "Regular Application" for the CADC/LCADC. Determine which courses you think were covered by your undergraduate or graduate classes, and send that information to the Certification Board, with a check for $50. They will decide which courses you still need to take. For more information, download the form at http://www.certbd.com/pdfs/misc-forms/LCADC-CADCReq-Rec-Verif.pdf.
