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Our Team Diane Litterer CEO & Executive Director dianelitterer@njpn.org Diane Litterer, MPA, CPS, has been in the field of public health for over 20 years and has developed state-of-the-art prevention programs that have received federal, state, county and local funding. Diane manages several statewide initiatives including the Addiction Training and Workforce Development Project, which provides training for the addiction field; the Military Family Project serving service personnel and their families; the Training and Technical Assistance program for 17 Regional Coalitions throughout New Jersey and the CDC Community Transformation Grant that is addressing chronic disease prevention throughout 13 targeted counties. Additionally, Diane oversees NJPN’s Annual Addiction Conference, the largest addiction conference in New Jersey. Diane builds capacity among professionals to increase the use of evidenced-based programs and practices and to implement effective environmental strategies that create healthier communities. She is recognized as a state leader in public health and sits on several state work groups including the State Epidemiology Outcome Workgroup (SEOW); the Environmental Strategies Workgroup of the State Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion Planning Stakeholders Group; the New Jersey Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) Professional Advisory Committee (PAC); Prevention Strategic Planning Committee and the DMHAS Stakeholders Committee. Diane works to foster collaboration, maximize resources and strengthen the field of prevention. NJPN BOARD OF TRUSTEES Brendan Fairfield | President David Bruno | Secretary Joel Natter | Treasurer Sidney Colvin Rajiv Tandon Paschal Nwako NJPN STAFF Alexandria Afanador | Prevention Associate Aafanador@njpn.org Clarissa Attara | Clinical Workforce Trainer Clarissa@njpn.org Mahidul Bhuiyan | Prevention Associate Mahidul@njpn.org Laura Borrelli | Office Manager Laura@njpn.org Celina Bourque | Training Coordinator Celina@njpn.org Salvatore DeRose | Training Coordinator Salvatore@njpn.org Susanna Emanuel | Finance Manager Susanna@njpn.org Janine Fabrizio | Trainer Janine@njpn.org Carlo Favretto | Prevention Associate Carlo@njpn.org Joseph Ferrara | LMS Specialist Joe@njpn.org Kelly Fodera | Training Coordinator Kelly@njpn.org Martin Giancarli | Prevention Program Manager Martin@njpn.org Samantha Harries | Operations Director Samantha@njpn.org Zach Hertz | Communications Manager Zach@njpn.org Breyonna Kelton | Peer Program Director Breyonna@njpn.org Alexandra Kerwin | Prevention Associate Alexandra@njpn.org Marisa Lierni | Manager, Clinical Training & Workforce Development Marisa@njpn.org Mackenzie McDonald | Lead Training Coordinator Mackenzie@njpn.org Bob Mikos | Program Developer and Training Specialist Bob@njpn.org Sarah Mikulis | Peer Recovery Workforce Development Trainer Sarah@njpn.org Victoria Nagel | Clinical Workforce Director Victoria@njpn.org Tony Polizzi | Clinical Workforce Trainer Tony@njpn.org Jenna Reidy | Lead Peer Recovery Workforce Development Trainer JennaReidy@njpn.org Brittany Richardson | Prevention Associate Brittany@njpn.org Timothy Ryan | Peer Recovery Workforce Development Trainer Timothy@njpn.org Daniel Scharnitz | Training Coordinator Daniel@njpn.org Ashley Smith | Program Manager, Tobacco Ashley@njpn.org Malachi Walton | Clinical Workforce Trainer Malachi@njpn.org Yousrah Younous | Prevention Associate Yousrah@njpn.org Andrea Zapcic | Research and Policy Advisor Andrea@njpn.org

NJPN offers initial, entry-level, continuing education, and specialty Peer Recovery Support trainings. See our listing of trainings here. Back to Top Peer Recovery Support Services / Peer Trainings PEER TRAININGS For any questions regarding our peer training, please contact us at peert rainings@njpn.org . UPCOMING TRAININGS Learn At Your Own Pace! Ongoing Continuing Education/ Renewal Training SIMmersion: Simulated Trainings for Peer Recovery Specialists Online Register View More Learn At Your Own Pace! Ongoing Continuing Education/ Renewal Training On-Demand Learning Sessions for Peer Recovery Specialists Each training earns 3 CEUs towards CPRS / NCPRSS renewals. If all 8 trainings are taken, you can earn 24 CEUs! Online Register View More Online Sessions: June 2026 06/22/26, 06/24/26, 06/26/26 9:00AM - 4:00PM August 2026 08/17/26, 08/19/26, 08/21/26 9:00AM - 4:00PM Initial Certification Training DMHAS Required Peer Ethics Online Register View More Online 08/05/26 and 08/07/26 9:00AM - 4:00PM Renewal / Continuing Education Training Peer Workforce Supervision Training Online Register View More IN-PERSON 07/08/26, 07/09/26, 07/10/26 9:00AM - 4:00PM at the NJPN Office Monmouth County IN-PERSON 08/11/26, 08/12/26, 08/13/26 9:00AM - 4:00PM at the NJPN Office Monmouth County Renewal / Continuing Education Training Overdose Prevention for Peer Recovery Specialists IN-PERSON Register View More Online 06/18/26 10:00AM - 2:00PM Renewal / Continuing Education Training Power in Connection: Mobilizing Communities for Collective Impact Online Register View More Online 06/25/26 10:00AM - 2:00PM Renewal / Continuing Education Training Power into Policy Peer Leadership for System Change Online Register View More DATE TRAINING LOCATION SUPPORTED BY Funding for this program is made possible by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) State Opioid Response Grants Catalogue of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) No. 93.788. Funding for this initiative was made possible by grant no. H79TI083317 from SAMHSA, NJ DHS and DMHAS. CONTACT US 732-367-0611 peertrainings@njpn.org

NJPN is a public health agency working to prevent substance use, addiction and other chronic diseases throughout NJ and beyond. Throughout NJ, We ... Advocate for Prevention and Wellness. We empower prevention to build healthier futures. Prevention Prevention We support clinical excellence through professional training. Clinical Treatment Clinical Training Supporting recovery pathways with peer training and workforce development. Peer Recovery Peer Recovery Support — Est. 2000 — Celebrating 25 Years Prevention Clinical Treatment Peer Recovery The Latest— 9 Sessions. One Hour Each. Beginning June 4. Register Today From the Blog — Read More on Our Blog Fighting a Different Battle: Prioritizing Mental Health for Our Veterans July 22 Read More Renewing Our Collective Focus on Joy! December 11 Read More September 9 Time to Read Author In Their Lane: The Professional Identity and Vital Role of Alcohol and Drug Counselors on the Road to Recovery Read More Certified Prevention Specialist (CPS) Clinical Certifications & Trainings Peer Recovery Support Trainings Unlock your full potential as a certified prevention specialist, clinical addiction counselor or practitioner, or peer recovery specialist through our comprehensive training opportunities. Earn your initial certification, maintain your credentials, and specialize your skills—all to empower the individuals you serve. Explore our diverse trainings and invest in your future today. Make a Positive, Lasting Impact on NJ's Communities Unlock Your Future Sign Up for Emails Join our email list to receive updates on NJPN’s programs and events. Stay Informed Donate to NJPN Celebrate 25 years with us—your donation helps expand essential services across New Jersey. Donate

Register for this upcoming renewal training hosted by NJPN. About Professional Development Mail Certification Courses CDA CADC LCADC CCS ACS Mail Renewal Trainings Mandatory Legal Standards Cultural Humility Trainings Clinical Supervisor Trainings Advanced Renewal Trainings Mail Upcoming Renewal Trainings Resources Scholarships & Tuition FAQs Student Portal Home > CTWD Upcoming Renewal Trainings (Item) > Back to All Events CCS Refresher and IC&RC CS Exam Review Refresh your clinical supervision knowledge and confidently prepare for the IC&RC Clinical Supervisor (CS) Exam in this dynamic 6-hour course. This program integrates a review of essential supervisory competencies with IC&RC Clinical Supervisor (CS) Exam preparation. Participants will revisit key supervisory concepts of the 30-hour CCS training. The course provides practical strategies, targeted resources, and exam-focused activities to ensure participants are well-prepared for certification success. Apply Today to Register DATES & TIMES May 28th, 2026 TRAINING APPLIES TO Tag 01 Tag 02 Tag 03 Tag 04 Tag 05 LOCATION TYPE OF TRAINING Renewal Training CLINICAL HOURS 6 CEUs TUITION DMHAS Scholarship Only About the Training Refresh your clinical supervision knowledge and confidently prepare for the IC&RC Clinical Supervisor (CS) Exam in this dynamic 6-hour course. This program integrates a review of essential supervisory competencies with IC&RC Clinical Supervisor (CS) Exam preparation. Participants will revisit key supervisory concepts of the 30-hour CCS training. The course provides practical strategies, targeted resources, and exam-focused activities to ensure participants are well-prepared for certification success. Course offering 6 CEUs Renewal Credit Information Full scholarship opportunity for individuals employed at a NJ-DMHAS licensed SUD treatment agency. Scholarship Qualifications Apply Today Selection Process Full scholarship opportunity for individuals employed at a NJ-DMHAS licensed SUD treatment agency. Priority seating for individuals who hold a CADC or LCADC. Ready to apply? Click the button below to get started. Application FAQ Have Questions? More FAQs Apply Today Complete the Application Made possible by NJ Department of Human Services, Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services. Professional Development About Certifications & Trainings Upcoming Renewal Trainings Resources Student Portal Scholarships & Tuition FAQs Contact Us. Name* Email* Message* Submit Message

About Professional Development Mail Certification Courses CDA CADC LCADC CCS ACS Mail Renewal Trainings Mandatory Legal Standards Cultural Humility Trainings Clinical Supervisor Trainings Advanced Renewal Trainings Mail Upcoming Renewal Trainings Resources Scholarships & Tuition FAQs Student Portal Home > Clinical Training and Workforce Development > Upcoming Renewal Trainings > Upcoming Renewal Trainings Renewal Trainings are designed to meet state licensing requirements. Topics are chosen based on the latest field trends and workforce demands. Continuing Education (CE) credits from NJPN’s trainings are widely recognized, thanks to specific board approvals from credential boards, including: APCB of NJ NAADAC NBCC NASW Licensed Clinical Drug and Alcohol Counselors (LCADC) must complete 40 continuing education contact hours for licensed renewal. Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselors (CADC) are required to complete 60 hours of continued education for certification renewal. LCADCs/CADCS must complete a committee-approved legal standard course (for more information, refer to N.J.A.C.13:34C-5.2 d) LCADCs/CADCS must complete three contact hours in the subject area of social or cultural competence in every biennial period (for more information, refer to N.J.A.C.13:34C-5.2.e) For more information, please review N.J.A.C 13:34C here . There are no results matching the filters you've applied. Please try removing or fully clearing filters to see other trainings. Training Full Dates & Times Connected to Date & Time. Location Connected to Location. Renewal Hours Connected to Renewal Hours. Tuition Connected to Tuition. Scholarships & Tuition Info Training Title Type of Training Virtual Register Learn More LCADC CE Credits For: CADC CCS ACS LPC LCSW LAC LSW LMFT LMFT-A LRC LPAT LAAT Find a Training Clear Filters By Credential L/CADC CCS ACS LPC/LCSW/Other By Training Focus Advanced Renewal Clinical Trainings Mandatory Legal Standards Cultural Humility Trainings Opiate Trainings By Location In Person Virtual Frequently Asked Questions Have questions about NJPN's Clinical Training & Workforce Development program or about any of our certifications and trainings? Visit our FAQs. View FAQs Join Our Mailing List Get notified of new clinical course trainings, events, and news straight to your inbox. Email List Sign Up Become a Trainer Join NJPN's Clinical Workforce team as an “Invest in You” course trainer for our LCADC and CADC students. Learn More Made possible by NJ Department of Human Services, Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services. Professional Development About Certifications & Trainings Upcoming Renewal Trainings Resources Student Portal Scholarships & Tuition FAQs Contact Us. Name* Email* Message* Submit Message

Register for this upcoming renewal training hosted by NJPN. About Professional Development Mail Certification Courses CDA CADC LCADC CCS ACS Mail Renewal Trainings Mandatory Legal Standards Cultural Humility Trainings Clinical Supervisor Trainings Advanced Renewal Trainings Mail Upcoming Renewal Trainings Resources Scholarships & Tuition FAQs Student Portal Home > CTWD Upcoming Renewal Trainings (Item) > Back to All Events Click to Comply: NJ Telehealth Regulations for Substance Use Counselors As telehealth continues to evolve, understanding the legal and ethical framework surrounding remote services is essential for substance use disorder (SUD) professionals in New Jersey. This engaging webinar provides SUD counselors with a comprehensive overview of the NJ regulations governing telehealth and telemedicine. Participants will explore how to deliver compliant, ethical care via telehealth, including key standards for documentation, informed consent, technology use, and supervision. This training is designed to support counselors in navigating regulatory requirements confidently while maintaining the quality of care clients deserve. Apply Today to Register DATES & TIMES At your Pace TRAINING APPLIES TO Tag 01 Tag 02 Tag 03 Tag 04 Tag 05 LOCATION TYPE OF TRAINING Renewal Training CLINICAL HOURS 1 CEU TUITION DMHAS Scholarship Only About the Training Learning Objectives: Define telehealth and telemedicine according to NJ law and understand how they apply to SUD services. Identify legal and ethical standards for delivering SUD counseling via telehealth. Explain documentation, supervision, and consent requirements. Recognize compliance, billing, and risk management considerations in virtual SUD treatment. Course offering 1 CEU. Renewal Credit Information Full scholarship opportunity for individuals employed at a NJ-DMHAS contracted SUD treatment agency. Scholarship Qualifications Apply Today Selection Process Full scholarship opportunity for individuals employed at a NJ-DMHAS licensed SUD treatment agency. Ready to apply? Click the button below to get started. Application FAQ Have Questions? More FAQs Apply Today Complete the Application Made possible by NJ Department of Human Services, Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services. Professional Development About Certifications & Trainings Upcoming Renewal Trainings Resources Student Portal Scholarships & Tuition FAQs Contact Us. Name* Email* Message* Submit Message

Register for this upcoming renewal training hosted by NJPN. About Professional Development Mail Certification Courses CDA CADC LCADC CCS ACS Mail Renewal Trainings Mandatory Legal Standards Cultural Humility Trainings Clinical Supervisor Trainings Advanced Renewal Trainings Mail Upcoming Renewal Trainings Resources Scholarships & Tuition FAQs Student Portal Home > CTWD Upcoming Renewal Trainings (Item) > Back to All Events 6-hour Initial Mandatory Legal Standards: July 17th, 2026 The 6-Hour Initial Mandatory Legal Standards course is for all LCADCs and CADCs who have not yet completed the 6-hour course in their initial renewal cycle required to satisfy the bi-annual requirement established by the Division of Consumer Affairs. Apply Today to Register DATES & TIMES July 17th, 2026 TRAINING APPLIES TO Tag 01 Tag 02 Tag 03 Tag 04 Tag 05 LOCATION TYPE OF TRAINING Mandatory Renewal Training CLINICAL HOURS 6 CEUs TUITION $125 About the Training This course is required for the initial renewal of LCADC and CADC license/certification. This training satisfies the mandatory requirement for 2022 renewal application for all NJ CADC & LCADC as established by the NJ Division of Consumer Affairs. Partial credit is not issued. Renewal Credit Information This course is tuition-based. If you work for a DMHAS-contracted SUD treatment agency, you are eligible to apply for this training when it is available for scholarship. If you choose to enroll in this course, please note that the indicated fee will apply. Scholarship Qualifications Apply Today Selection Process This course is tuition-based. Ready to apply? Click the button below to get started. Application FAQ Have Questions? More FAQs Apply Today Complete the Application Made possible by NJ Department of Human Services, Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services. Professional Development About Certifications & Trainings Upcoming Renewal Trainings Resources Student Portal Scholarships & Tuition FAQs Contact Us. Name* Email* Message* Submit Message

Register for this upcoming renewal training hosted by NJPN. About Professional Development Mail Certification Courses CDA CADC LCADC CCS ACS Mail Renewal Trainings Mandatory Legal Standards Cultural Humility Trainings Clinical Supervisor Trainings Advanced Renewal Trainings Mail Upcoming Renewal Trainings Resources Scholarships & Tuition FAQs Student Portal Home > CTWD Upcoming Renewal Trainings (Item) > Back to All Events Opioid Crisis in New Jersey: Emerging Trends and Action Steps NJPN offers opiate training sessions for helping professionals in New Jersey. These sessions are designed to equip professionals with the essential knowledge and skills to address opioid use disorders and related issues in their practices. Apply Today to Register DATES & TIMES At your Pace TRAINING APPLIES TO Tag 01 Tag 02 Tag 03 Tag 04 Tag 05 LOCATION TYPE OF TRAINING Opiate Training CLINICAL HOURS 1 CEU TUITION $35 About the Training The training may also fulfill the one-hour opiate training requirement for LPC and LCSW licensure. The training may fulfill the one-hour opiate educational requirement for: 13:34-24.2.d. Contact-hour requirements for Licensed Rehabilitation Counselors 13:34-15.2.c. Contact-hour requirements for Licensed Professional Counselors 45:8B-24.1.c. Continuing education requirements (Marriage and Family Therapy) Renewal Credit Information Scholarship Qualifications Apply Today Selection Process Ready to apply? Click the button below to get started. Application FAQ Have Questions? More FAQs Apply Today Complete the Application Made possible by NJ Department of Human Services, Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services. Professional Development About Certifications & Trainings Upcoming Renewal Trainings Resources Student Portal Scholarships & Tuition FAQs Contact Us. Name* Email* Message* Submit Message

The practice of Mindfulness can be beneficial for those in a helping profession. Learn more about Mindfulness here. Back to Top Home Mindfulness Training Mindfulness and Self-Care for Addiction Professionals Self-Care and Mindfulness training explores the critical role of self-care in sustaining effective peer recovery work. Peer specialists, who often support others navigating trauma, substance use, and mental health challenges, face a unique risk of emotional fatigue and secondary trauma. To help sustain the workforce and minimize burnout and compassion care fatigue, NJPN offers a variety of trainings to help manage the stresses of providing support. Registration is at no cost thanks to funding from the NJ Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services (NJDMHAS). Don't miss out on this opportunity to connect, learn, and be inspired! Register Today ABOUT What is Mindfulness? GET STARTED Training Opportunities for Peers & Clinical Staff LEARN MORE Mindfulness Resources What is Mindfulness? Mindfulness is the state of focusing all of one's attention to the present moment without evaluation or judgement. With roots in Buddhist teachings, mindfulness can be considered a form of meditation where the goal is to achieve a higher level of consciousness. To be mindful is to be tuned into one's current experience, feelings, emotions, and thoughts with acceptance. This open-minded approach encourages exploration of any strong emotions observed in the moment and can provide clarity into one's feelings and behaviors. Many people who practice mindfulness report not only finding a greater sense of inner peace, but also improved relationships with their environments, life situations, and with others. You may have heard the word mindfulness used in tandem with recent health and wellness movements—and with good reason. Research has shown many positive mental and physical health benefits attributed to practicing mindfulness. About Mindfulness PRACTICING MINDFULNESS CAN ... Ease Stress & Anxiety Improve Mental Focus & Memory Strengthen Emotional Regulation Encourage Better Physical Health Reduce Judging Thoughts & Biases Virtual Mindfulness Trainings NJPN offers different Mindfulness training series opportunities to Peer Recovery Specialists and Licensed Clinical Staff. Peer Recovery Specialists, Licensed Clinical Staff Mindfulness Based Addiction Recovery Mindfulness Based Addiction Recovery (MBAR) Training is a secular mindfulness-based approach promoting recovery from addiction and working positively with slips and relapses. Participants will receive intense didactic and experiential instruction on how to implement specialized mindfulness techniques and other skills. Location Online Duration 4 Weeks Format Self-Guided Learn More Peer Recovery Specialists, Licensed Clinical Staff Mindfulness for Peer Recovery Specialists Training The practice of mindfulness offers a way to support understanding, relating to, and being with one’s moment-to-moment experiences in ways that are beneficial, both for the individual and others. Research has shown results in reducing anxiety and depression, and increasing emotional intelligence, resiliency, and compassion for self and others. Location Online Duration 8 Weeks Format Live Zoom Sessions Learn More Virtual Trainings Resources Whether you're new to mindfulness or are a seasoned pro, we have prepared a variety of helpful resources to help refresh your mind and body. Check back often for new content. Article Mindfulness The Wikipedia page on Mindfulness. Wikipedia Video NJPN's Wellness Wednesday Series Three on-demand video sessions for peaceful meditation and yoga flows. NJPN FILTER BY TYPE Article Video Clear Filters Resources SUPPORTED BY Funding for this program is made possible by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) State Opioid Response Grants Catalogue of Federal Domestic Assistance (CFDA) No. 93.788. Funding for this initiative was made possible by grant no. H79TI083317 from SAMHSA, NJ DHS and DMHAS. Contact Us. 732-367-0611 peertrainings@njpn.org

APRIL 29 & 30 • ON-DEMAND THRU DEC 2021 Back to 2021 Conference Register Our Speakers The NJPN Annual Addiction Conference brings together national and state addiction experts addressing the latest research and strategies related to the addiction field. Featured Speakers WELCOME Gurbir S. Grewal Attorney General, The State of New Jersey Learn More Gurbir S. Grewal DAY 2 WELCOME & DAY 1 AM WORKSHOP Susan Gibson Special Agent in Charge, Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) Learn More Susan Gibson DAY 1 KEYNOTE Linda Graham, MFT Psychotherapist, Author, Consultant, Trainer Learn More Linda Graham, MFT DAY 2 KEYNOTE Priya Vulchi & Winona Guo Social Entrepreneurs & Student Activists, Founders of CHOOSE Learn More Priya Vulchi & Winona Guo DAY 1 PLENARY David Kessler Author, Founder, grief.com Learn More David Kessler DAY 2 PLENARY Darryl S. Inaba, PharmD. Director of Clinical and Behavioral Health Services, Addictions Recovery Center Learn More Darryl S. Inaba, PharmD. DAY 1 AM WORKSHOP Christopher M. Jones Deputy Director, National Center for Injury Prevention and Control, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Learn More View More DAY 1 PM WORKSHOP Elizabeth Burden Senior Advisor, Practice Improvement & Consulting, National Council for Behavioral Health Learn More View More DAY 2 AM WORKSHOP Kevin A. Sabet, PhD. President & CEO, Smart Approaches to Marijuana (SAM, Inc.) Learn More View More HIDDEN SPACER WORKSHOP SPEAKERS INCLUDE DAY 1 AM WORKSHOP Lt. Jason Piotrowski Unit Head of Regional Operations, NJ-ROIC, NJ State Police Learn More View More DAY 1 AM WORKSHOP Dale Quigley Deputy Coordinator, HIDTA—National Marijuana Initiative (NMI) Learn More View More DAY 1 PM WORKSHOP Douglas Rice Senior Manager, Training & Sales Operations, CADCA Learn More View More DAY 1 PM WORKSHOP Rachel Taylor LMTI Supervisor, The Lindsey Meyer Teen Institute (LMTI) Learn More View More DAY 2 AM WORKSHOP Sandy Gibson Clinical Coordinator & Professor, The College of New Jersey Learn More View More DAY 2 AM WORKSHOP Christopher Spallina Program Manager, The Phoenix NJ Learn More View More DAY 2 AM WORKSHOP Brandon Brown Trauma Specialist, Temple University Learn More View More DAY 1 AM WORKSHOP Steven D. Kniffley Jr., PsyD. Assistant Professor & Coordinator of Collective Care Center (Racial Trauma Clinic), Spalding University Learn More View More DAY 1 PM WORKSHOP Liz Pandya Director, Scientific Education & Patient Advocacy (SEPA) Learn More View More DAY 1 PM WORKSHOP Jamie Sierfeld Training Director, Partners in Prevention, The Lindsey Meyer Teen Institute (LMTI) Learn More View More DAY 1 PM WORKSHOP Donald Parker President, Hackensack Meridian Health — Carrier Clinic Learn More View More DAY 2 AM WORKSHOP Jennifer Oliva Associate Professor of Law, Seton Hall University Learn More View More DAY 2 AM WORKSHOP Brittany Garner Program Manager, The Phoenix FL Learn More View More DAY 2 AM WORKSHOP Matthew Stefanko Director, National Stigma Initiative, Shatterproof Learn More View More HIDDEN SPACER View Workshop Sessions Register Today A Virtual Conference for All Professionals Supporting Those Impacted by Addiction APRIL 29 & 30 • ON-DEMAND THRU DEC 2021 Virtual Experience Workshop Sessions Speakers Sponsors Agenda FAQs Register Today info@njpn.org

Get answers to some of the common questions related to NJPN's Clinical Training and Workforce Development program. About Professional Development Mail Certification Courses CDA CADC LCADC CCS ACS Mail Renewal Trainings Mandatory Legal Standards Cultural Humility Trainings Clinical Supervisor Trainings Advanced Renewal Trainings Mail Upcoming Renewal Trainings Resources Scholarships & Tuition FAQs Student Portal Home > CTWD FAQs (List) > Frequently Asked Questions About Clinical Training and Workforce Development at NJPN The Department of Law and Public Safety, Division of Consumer Affairs, State Board of Marriage and Family Therapy Examiners’ Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee (the Committee) was established on January 9, 1998 pursuant to N.J.S.A. 45:2D-1 et seq. The purpose of the Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee is to: protect the health, safety, and welfare of the people of New Jersey; regulate the practice of alcohol and drug counseling; take action against unprofessional, improper, unauthorized, or unqualified practice of alcohol and drug counseling and guard against unprofessional conduct by the licensed individuals who practice alcohol and drug counseling; and to review applications for certification and licensure and to ensure that the minimum requirements have been met. For further information, visit: http://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/alcohol/ What is the State Board of Marriage and Family Therapy Examiners’, Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee (ADCC)? Expand The Addiction Professionals Certification Board of New Jersey’s (APCBNJ) primary mission is to ensure the competency in addictions and other behavioral healthcare professionals using educational, experiential, testing, and ethical measures. Its scope is to enhance the professionalism of addictions and other healthcare professions by offering quality certification products to provide and monitor accepted ethical standards for consumer protection and to provide addiction and behavioral health cross training. APCBNJ schedules and administers the written and oral exams and reviews transcripts to determine if a course qualifies towards the required 270 hours of education in the event the education was obtained at an agency that is not an approved CADC educational provider approved by the APCBNJ. For more information about APCBNJ please visit http://www.certbd.org What is the role of the APCBNJ and what do they do? Expand The International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC) sets the international standards of practice in addiction counseling, prevention, and clinical supervision through testing and credentialing of addiction professionals. Incorporated in 1981, and currently headquartered in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, IC&RC is a voluntary membership organization comprised of certifying agencies involved in the credentialing or licensing of alcohol and other drug abuse counselors, clinical Supervisors, prevention specialists, co-occurring professionals and criminal justice professionals. For further information, visit their website at http://www.IC &RCaoda.org/about.asp What is the IC&RC? Expand DMHAS is the state mental health authority (SMHA) and the Single State Authority on Substance Abuse (SSA) that plans, monitors, and evaluates New Jersey's mental health and substance use prevention, early intervention, treatment, and recovery efforts. DMHAS does not grant licenses or certification to alcohol and drug counselors. However, DMHAS does publish residential and outpatient treatment regulations that detail the qualifications required to work at a DMHAS-licensed facility. What is the role of the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) in the certification and licensing process? Expand General Information Scholarships & Tuition To qualify for a scholarship, students must work at a Division of Mental Health and Addiction Service (DMHAS) licensed substance use disorder (SUD) treatment agency, as these scholarships are funded by DMHAS. For those pursuing initial licensure or certification as a Licensed/Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (L/CADC), students must have an active proposed supervision plan and be in a clinical role that provides experience in the 12 core competencies. How are scholarships awarded and who is eligible? Expand Tuition-Based courses are available for professionals who do not meet scholarship requirements. These professionals may include: Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) and Licensed Clinical Social Workers (LCSWs). What is Tuition-Based? Expand If you are ineligible for scholarships, then yes, there are certain courses that may have a fee. Read about scholarships to understand if you are eligible. Are there fees for any of the trainings? Expand LCADC & CADC The CADC (Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor) certification and the LCADC (Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor) license are both granted by the New Jersey Department of Law and Public Safety, Division of Consumer Affairs, State Board of Marriage and Family Therapy Examiners’ Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee (ADCC/the Committee) to alcohol and drug counselors in the State of New Jersey. The primary difference between the CADC and the LCADC is that the LCADC is a Master's-level clinican permitted to conduct unsupervised independent practice whereas the CADC is required to practice under the supervision of an approved supervisor. Both the LCADC and the CADC can make assessments; however, the CADC cannot make diagnoses. LCADCs are permitted to supervise CADC, LCADCs, alcohol and drug counselor interns, and credentialed interns; the CADC cannot supervise. The educational requirements for the LCADC and CADC (N.J.A.C. 13:34C-2.3) both require 270 hours of alcohol and drug education. The CADC requires a bachelor’s degree or an associate degree or a high school diploma or a certificate of high school equivalency. The LCADC (N.J.A.C. 13:34C-2.3b) must possess a master’s degree or a doctorate in addictions or a counseling-related field from an accredited institution of higher learning. Both credentials require similar hours of supervised practice. What is the difference between a CADC and an LCADC? Expand The CADC (Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor) certification and the LCADC (Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor) license are both granted by the New Jersey Department of Law and Public Safety, Division of Consumer Affairs, State Board of Marriage and Family Therapy Examiners’ Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee (ADCC/the Committee) to alcohol and drug counselors in the State of New Jersey. The primary difference between the CADC and the LCADC is that the LCADC is permitted to conduct unsupervised independent practice whereas the CADC is required to practice under the supervision of an approved supervisor. Both the LCADC and the CADC can make assessments; however, the CADC cannot make diagnoses. LCADCs are permitted to supervise CADC, LCADCs, alcohol and drug counselor interns, and credentialed interns; the CADC cannot supervise. The educational requirements for the LCADC and CADC (N.J.A.C. 13:34C-2.3) both require 270 hours of alcohol and drug education. The CADC requires a bachelor’s degree or an associate degree or a high school diploma or a certificate of high school equivalency. The LCADC (N.J.A.C. 13:34C-2.3b) must possess a master’s degree or a doctorate in addictions or a counseling-related field from an accredited institution of higher learning. Both credentials require similar hours of supervised practice. What is the difference between a CADC and an LCADC? N.J.A.C. 13:34C-3.1 Expand An applicant for certification as a CADC must obtain pre-approval of the applicant’s plan of supervision. See the Proposed Plan of Supervision application on the ADCC webpage: http://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/ (Click Alcohol and Drug Committee; Click Applications and Forms; Click Proposed Plan of Supervision for CADC/LCADC (Internship). An applicant shall submit evidence of the following to the ADCC: Supervised Internship N.J.A.C. 13:34-2.3(c) Completion of two years (3,000 hours; full time = 1,500 hours per year maximum) supervised work experience within five consecutive years immediately preceding the date of submission of the application. Supervised work experience may be paid or voluntary time working directly with alcohol or other drug clients. Paid or voluntary time shall be directly related to the 12 core functions of alcohol and drug counseling. A one-year, full-time equivalent shall be 1,500 hours maximum over a one-year, 50-week period. Clinical supervision of alcohol and drug counselor interns shall include at least 50 hours of face-to-face supervision per year, averaging one hour per week. No more than 25 hours shall be group supervision. Work experience can be obtained from more than one agency. Work experience may be part-time as long as the two-year requirement (3,000 hours) is satisfied within five consecutive years immediately preceding the date of submission of the application. Formal education may not be substituted for work experience. Education N.J.A.C. 13:34C-2.3b-1 Official transcript(s)/certificate(s) indicating that the applicant has satisfied the following educational requirements: Received a bachelor’s degree or an associate degree or a high school diploma or a certificate of high school equivalency, and Completed 270 hours of alcohol and drug education [N.J.A.C. 13:34 2.3b4] (See question #5 in this section) approved by member boards of the International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC) [Addiction Professionals Certification Board of New Jersey - APCBNJ or its successor], the National Association of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (NADAAC - only for those states that have NAADAC certification), or a regionally accredited college or university which shall be related to the knowledge and skills associated with the core functions of an alcohol and drug counselor, including formal classroom education, workshops, seminars, institutes, in-service training, or a maximum of 54 course hours in distance learning programs. Supervised Practicum Training N.J.A.C. 13:34C-2.3-(b) Complete 300 hours of supervised practical training in alcohol and drug counseling distributed among all the 12 core functions: screening; intake; orientation; assessment; treatment planning; counseling (individual, group, and family); case management; crisis intervention; client education; referral; consultation; and recordkeeping. A qualified clinical supervisor’s certification must be included with the application indicating that the applicant has met the supervision requirements for certification as set forth In N.J.A.C. 13:34C-6. Self-Help Meeting Attendance N.J.A.C. 13:34C-2.3b-5 (b) Attendance at 30 alcohol and drug abuse self-help group meetings, of which a minimum of five meetings shall be Alcoholics Anonymous. A minimum of five shall be Narcotics Anonymous, and a minimum of five meetings shall be Al-Anon. The other 15 meetings may be in any self- help group related to addiction recovery. Examination N.J.A.C. 13:34C-2.3b-6 Successful completion of the written and oral examination developed and prepared by the IC&RC. Other N.J.A.C. 13:34C-2.3b-7 A completed application form, which contains information concerning the applicant’s educational and experiential background. The application can be found at: http://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/ (Click Alcohol and Drug Committee; Click Applications and Forms; Click Application for Licensure or Certification as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor A non-refundable application filing fee of $75 as set forth in N.J.A.C. 13:34C-1:10 must be included with the application. What are the requirements to become a CADC? N.J.A.C. 13.34C-2.2(b) Expand Supervised Internship N.J.A.C. 13:34C-2.3b-3 Completion of two years (3,000 hours; full time = 1,500 hours per year) supervised work experience within five consecutive years immediately preceding the date of submission of the application. Supervised work experience may be paid or voluntary time working directly with alcohol or other drug clients. Paid or voluntary time shall be directly related to the 12 core functions of alcohol and drug counseling. A one-year, full-time equivalent shall be 1,500 hours maximum over a one-year, 50-week period. Clinical supervision of alcohol and drug counselor interns shall include at least 50 hours of face-to-face supervision per year, averaging one hour per week. No more than 25 hours shall be group supervision. Work experience can be obtained from more than one agency. Work experience may be part-time as long as the two-year requirement (3,000 hours) is satisfied within five consecutive years immediately preceding the date of submission of the application. Formal education may not be substituted for work experience. Must obtain pre-approval of the applicant’s plan of supervision. See application of supervision on the Alcohol and Drug Counselor webpage: http://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/ (Click Alcohol and Drug ADCC; Click Applications and Forms; Click Proposed Plan of Supervision for CADC/LCADC (Internship) Education N.J.A.C. 13:34C-2.2b-1 (b) An official transcript(s)/certificate(s) indicating that the applicant has satisfied the following educational requirements: Received a master’s degree in counseling or addictions or a counseling-related field as described below and in N.J.A.C. 13:34C-1.2. Completed 270 hours of alcohol and drug education (See question #5 in this section) approved by member boards of the International Certification Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC), [Addiction Professionals Certification Board – APCBNJ or its successor], NADAAC (only for those states that have NAADAC certification), or a regionally accredited college or university which shall be related to the knowledge and skills associated with the core functions of an alcohol and drug counselor, including formal classroom education, workshops, seminars, institutes, in-service training, or a maximum of 54 course hours in distance learning programs. PLEASE NOTE: The 270 hours of required alcohol and drug education for LCADC candidates may be part of the master’s degree program as long as the course is provided by an approved educational provider of such matriculated course work. See questions #5, 6, 7 and 8 of Section II for more information regarding approved education providers. Supervised Practical Training N.J.A.C. 13:34C-6.2 Completion of 300 hours of supervised practical training in alcohol and drug counseling distributed among all the 12 core functions: screening; intake; orientation; assessment; treatment planning; counseling (individual, group, and family); case management; crisis intervention; client education; referral; consultation; and recordkeeping. Self-Help Meeting Attendance N.J.A.C. 13:342.3B-5 Attendance at 30 alcohol and drug abuse self-help group meetings, of which a minimum of five meetings shall be Alcoholics Anonymous, a minimum of five shall be Narcotics Anonymous, and a minimum of five meetings shall be Al-Anon. The other 15 meetings may be in any self-help group related to addiction recovery. Examination N.J.A.C. 13:34C-2.3b-6 Successful completion of the written and oral examination developed and prepared by the IC&RC. Individuals holding a master’s degree and/or those who have completed certain graduate programs are not exempt from the written and/or oral exam. The exemption applies only to those individuals who hold an active New Jersey clinical license in an appropriate discipline as listed on page 15 of the LCADC application. The professional license must be appropriate to provide independent (non-supervised) practice at the master’s or doctorate level and includes: Ph.D./Psy.D. – Doctor of Psychology (New Jersey licensed) M.D/D.O. – Doctor of Medicine or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (New Jersey licensed) LCSW – Licensed Clinical Social Worker (New Jersey licensed) APN – Advanced Practice Nurse (New Jersey licensed) LPC – Licensed Professional Counselor (New Jersey licensed) LMFT – Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (New Jersey licensed) PLEASE NOTE: Exemption of the written exam applies to New Jersey licensure. The satisfactory completion of the written exam may be required to approve licensure for practice in other states. Other (N.J.A.C. 13:34C-2.3b-7) A completed application form, which contains information concerning the applicant’s educational and experiential background. The application can be found at: http://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/ (Click Alcohol and Drug Committee; Click Applications and Forms; Click Application for Licensure or Certification as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor (Regular Application) A non-refundable application fee of $75 as set forth in N.J.A.C. 13:34C-1:10 must be included with the application. What are the requirements to become an LCADC? N.J.A.C. 13:34C-2.3) Expand An “alcohol and drug counselor intern” is a non-credentialed individual working towards certification or licensure as a drug and alcohol counselor. A “credentialed intern” is an individual working towards licensure as a LCADC who already possesses a professional clinical license in counseling or in a closely-related field (e.g., LPC, LCSW, LMFT, and APN). Both the alcohol and drug counselor intern and the credentialed intern must be supervised by a qualified clinical supervisor as described in N.J.A.C. 13:34C-6-2 and 6.3. What is the difference between an “alcohol and drug counselor intern” and a “credentialed intern?” Expand Both the CADC and the Master’s level LCADC applicants must complete the same 270 hours of alcohol and drug education, approved by member boards of the International Certification Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC) [APCBNJ in New Jersey or its successor], the NAADAC (such approval is only valid for courses taken in those states that have NAADAC certification), or a regionally accredited college or university which shall be related to the knowledge and skill associated with the functions of an alcohol and drug counselor, including formal classroom education, workshops, seminars, institutes, in-service training, or a maximum of 54 course hours in distance learning programs as follows: 54 course hours of assessment , with a minimum of 6 hours in each of the topics and distributed among all of the following: Initial interviewing process; Biopsychosocial assessment; Differential diagnosis; Diagnostic summaries; Compulsive gambling; and Psychopharmacology/physiology of addiction 54 course hours of counseling , with a minimum of 6 hours in each of the topics and distributed among all of the following: Introduction to counseling; Introduction to techniques and approaches; Crisis intervention; Individual counseling focused on addiction; Group counseling; and Family counseling 54 course hours of case management , with a minimum of 6 hours in each of the topics and distributed among all of the following: Community resources; Consultation; Documentation; and HIV positive resources 54 course hours of client education , with a minimum of 6 hours in each of the topics and distributed among all of the following: Addiction recovery; Psychological client education; Biochemical/medical client education; Sociocultural client education; Addiction recovery and psychological family education; Biomedical and sociocultural family education; and Community and professional education 54 course hours of professional responsibility , with a minimum of 6 hours in each of the topics and distributed among all of the following: Ethical standards; Legal aspects; Cultural competency; Professional growth; Personal growth; Dimensions of recovery; Supervision; Consultation; and Community involvement PLEASE NOTE: The 270 hours of required alcohol and drug education can be part of a degree program for LCADC candidates as long as the course is given by an approved provider of such course work. See questions #5, 6, 7 and 8 of Section II for more information regarding approved education providers. What are the educational requirements for the CADC & LCADC? N.J.A.C. 13:34C-2.3b-4 Expand An LCADC also requires a master’s degree in counseling, addictions or a counseling-related area, which shall include a minimum of 18 graduate semester hours in counseling from an accredited institution of higher education. The education must be designed to ensure that students achieve competency in the knowledge and skills associated with the core functions of an alcohol and drug counselor and must be part of a matriculated program in an addictions or counseling-related area may include pre- and post-master’s graduate hours and must be distributed among the following areas: Counseling theory and practice; The helping relationship; Human growth and development; Lifestyle and career development; Group dynamics, processes, counseling, and consulting; Assessment of individuals; Social and cultural foundations; Research and evaluation; The counseling profession; and Pharmacology and physiology The 18 hours of graduate course work can also apply toward the required 270 hours of required core course work as listed on page 16 of the LCADC application. If using academic coursework, the applicant must also submit verification from the APCBNJ or the academic institution that the course work was pre-approved as initial core training. If an individual is unsure if the course work has been pre-approved, please contact APCBNJ for verification. If it has not been pre-approved, the APCBNJ can approve core content areas in the academic course work after the fact. For more information, visit http://www.certbd.org . What additional education is required for the LCADC? N.J.A.C. 13:34C-2.2 Expand The length of the process to be licensed as a LCADC or certified as a CADC depends on the course of study pursued. Both the LCADC and the CADC require 270 education hours of essential core courses in alcohol and drug counseling and 3,000 supervised experience hours at an approved internship. The whole process takes an average of 3 years to complete. EDUCATION HOURS The Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services offers scholarships for the 270 required education hours to be completed through the New Jersey Prevention Network (NJPN). NJPN courses can be taken once a week for 45 weeks thus completing the educational requirements within one year. Colleges and universities may offer credit courses throughout academic semesters. In this case, it may take two or more years to complete coursework SUPERVISED EXPERIENCE HOURS If a candidate is interning full time, the 3,000 required supervised experience hours may be completed in two years; part-time would take longer. Internship hours are required to be completed within the five years preceding the application. How long is the process to become certified or licensed? Expand The educational requirements for the LCADC (Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor) and CADC (Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor)—N.J.A.C. 13:34C-2.3—both require 270 hours of alcohol and drug education. The CADC requires a bachelor’s degree or an associate degree or a high school diploma or a certificate of high school equivalency. The LCADC (N.J.A.C. 13:34C-2.3b) must possess a master’s degree or a doctorate in addictions or a counseling-related field from an accredited institution of higher learning. Both credentials require similar hours of supervised practice. The CADC (Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor) certification and the LCADC (Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor) license are both granted by the New Jersey Department of Law and Public Safety, Division of Consumer Affairs, State Board of Marriage and Family Therapy Examiners’ Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee (ADCC/the Committee) to alcohol and drug counselors in the State of New Jersey. The primary difference between the CADC and the LCADC is that the LCADC is permitted to conduct unsupervised independent practice whereas the CADC is required to practice under the supervision of an approved supervisor. Both the LCADC and the CADC can make assessments; however, the CADC cannot make diagnoses. LCADCs are permitted to supervise CADCs, alcohol and drug counselor interns, and credentialed interns; the CADC cannot supervise. What is the difference between a CADC (Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor) and an LCADC (Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor)? Expand The Invest in You Clinical Workforce Training program by NJPN and NJ-DMHAS offers professional development opportunities and certifications for individuals of all career levels. The general stages of addiction counseling certification are: Step 1: Obtaining an ADC intern position. Your journey to credential begins with securing an ADC (Alcohol Drug Counselor) internship at a DMHAS (Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services) licensed SUD (Substance Use Disorder) Treatment Agency. Step 2: Approval of Proposed Plan of Supervision with DCA-ADCC. You will need to submit your application for your Plan of Supervision through DCA-ADCC. Step 3: Sign up with NJPN for Training and Complete Coursework. NJPN offers initial addiction counseling certification or licensure courses that fulfill all educational hours by the state of NJ. Step 4: Earn your Certification or License by Passing Your Exam. In order to practice as a certified or licensed addiction professional in NJ, you must pass the oral and written alcohol drug counselor exams. Step 5: Maintaining Your Credentials. NJPN makes it easy to keep your certification or license current with our mandatory and advanced renewal continuing education trainings. Specialize: Nurture the Next Generation by Becoming a Certified Clinical Supervisor or Addiction Course Trainer. Clinical Supervision: Invest in yourself and your community to a greater degree by becoming a Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCS) for the next generation of addiction professionals. NJPN Addiction Course Trainer: Help expand the substance misuse treatment and recovery workforce—join the NJPN Clinical Workforce team as an “Invest in You” course trainer for our L/CADC students. What is the path to addiction certification via the Invest in You program? Expand General To obtain either the LCADC or the CADC, one must complete 270 hours of required core course work. The courses cover five domains. Each domain consists of 54 course hours. Courses can be completed at a regional accredited college/university or other educational provider approved by member boards of the International Certification Reciprocity Consortium (APCBNJ in New Jersey or its successor), NADAAC (for those states that have NADAAC certification) and be related to the knowledge and skill associated with the functions of an alcohol and drug counselor, including formal classroom education, workshops, seminars, institutes, in-service training or a maximum of 54 course hours in distance learning programs as follows: 54 course hours of assessment, with a minimum of 6 hours in each of the topics and distributed among all of the following: Initial interviewing process; Biopsychosocial assessment; Differential diagnosis; Diagnostic summaries; Compulsive gambling; and Psychopharmacology/physiology of addiction 54-hour course hours of counseling, with a minimum of 6 hours in each of the topics and distributed among all of the following: Introduction to counseling; Introduction to techniques and approaches; Crisis intervention; Individual counseling focused on addiction; Group counseling; and Family counseling How many courses are there? N.J.A.C. 13:34C-2.3b-4 Expand The 270 core hours of addiction coursework is comprised of courses ranging from a minimum of 6 hours and max of 18 hours. Service providers often provide courses in 6-hour increments. If courses are part of an accredited college or university degree program, the length of time to complete each course would depend on the course content. Typically, college courses are held once a week for 12-15 weeks. Keep in mind, however, that these courses must be pre-approved as initial alcohol and drug counselor education by the APCBNJ. How many hours is each course? N.J.A.C. 13:34C-2.3b-4i Expand For individuals who took courses or were certified in another state, the APCBNJ will review your course work on behalf of the ADCC. Individuals are required to complete an application and submit all required transcripts to the APCBNJ. After a review of your documents, APCBNJ will provide a transcript to the ADCC verifying whether or not all requirements have been met for either the LCADC or CADC. A letter will then be sent from the APCBNJ to the applicant and the ADCC. All individuals seeking review of their course work are required to simultaneously complete the state’s Application for Licensure as a Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor or Certification as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor and remit subsequent State fees. For more information on getting your coursework or certification reviewed, visit http://www.certbd.org . What if I have taken courses, or I have a certification from another state? Do I have to retake all the courses? Who do I contact for assistance? Expand The regulations do not stipulate, nor do they currently identify a limit/expiration on education. How far back can educational experience go and be applied toward LCADC or CADC? Expand If applicants have original documentation of attendance from an approved educational provider, the ADCC may accept it. Can training certificates issued by agencies that no longer exist still count towards LCADC or CADC? Expand Every participant should receive a certificate of completion at the end of the course with the APCBNJ approval number, name of the course, and date of course. If the APCBNJ approval number is missing on the certificate, it is most likely invalid. How can I tell if my courses are approved by Board of Marriage and Family Therapy Examiners’, Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee or Certification Board: APCBNJ? Expand A list of colleges and universities that currently offer pre-approved graduate course work and/or undergraduate course work can be found on the APCBNJ website: http://www.certbd.org . Which colleges and/or universities offer pre-approved addiction coursework? Expand The ADCC allows the completion of a maximum of 54 hours (toward the initial 270 hours of education required) to be taken online as long as the course work is approved by the APCBNJ. Is asynchronous learning permitted? N.J.A.C. 13:34C-2.3b-4 Expand Yes, courses that are synchronous and interactive count as "live in-person" courses. Is synchronous learning permitted? Expand Individuals are certified or licensed only after meeting ALL the requirements for certification or licensure. The coursework represents only the educational requirement of certification and licensure. The applicant is notified by the ADCC once they have satisfactorily completed all of requirements to become certified or licensed. When is someone credentialed as an alcohol and drug counselor? Expand The Addiction Professionals Certification Board of NJ (APCBNJ) manages coursework approval for the ADCC. Upon request, the APCBNJ will provide a review for all or any individual courses that have not been pre-approved. To request a transcript review for academic coursework that was not obtained at a pre-approved service provider, college or university, please complete a transcript request and submit to APCBNJ https://certbd.org/transcript-review/ The APCBNJ website lists all Service Providers and College/Universities that have been pre- approved to offer coursework. https://certbd.org/approved-providers/ Who approves academic coursework for the L/CADC? Expand It is possible that some academic course work at the bachelor or masters level may count towards certification. Most colleges and universities in NJ have received pre-approval to offer the 270 hours of addiction specific coursework that meets the educational and training standards per N.J.A.C. 13:34C- 2.3 b) (4) 4). If the APCBNJ has pre-approved a college, program offering addiction coursework, (and IC&RC/NAADAC provider curriculum) a transcript review is not needed. If your college/university cannot provide supporting documentation that their program meets the 270 educational hours towards the LCADC/CADC, you can request a transcript review through APCBNJ (see Q/A "How can I obtain a transcript review? What does it cost?"). Can classes taken as an undergraduate or graduate student count toward CADC coursework? Expand No, peer training and education courses only apply to peer certification. Peer education courses do not provide the clinical knowledge and skills associated with the functions of a certified alcohol and drug counselor and, therefore, do not meet the clinical education requirements for CADC educational and training standards per N.J.A.C. 13:34C-2.3 b) (4) 4). Can peer education courses count toward CADC coursework? Expand To obtain the educational review application, please visit the APCBNJ website https://certbd.org/transcript-review. It is required that you arrange for colleges/universities to send an “official” transcript to APCBNJ for review in a sealed/unopened envelope. APCBNJ can review your transcripts and/or training certificates for a fee of $75. The APCBNJ will then send an official letter stating which courses may be applied towards certification or licensure and what core courses still need to be taken. This process may take up to 4 months. Common causes for delay in transcript review include: missing documentation; lack of course work description or detail for courses with non-specific titles unrelated to required domains (i.e., Social Work I); the transcript review form is not attached; he transcript review fee is not included; college/university transcript has been opened. How can I obtain a transcript review? What does it cost? Expand Course Work The written exam takes place first. Individuals may not schedule the oral exam until after they have passed the written exam. All written exams are computer-based and can be scheduled to be taken at the APCBNJ Office Process for registering for and taking a computerized exam: After the ABCBNJ receives your registration form, fee and current Test Approval letter from the ADCC/DCA-ADCC (if applicable), you will be pre-register with Schroder Measurement Technologies, Inc. (SMT), the IC&RC’s testing firm (approximately 2-3 weeks maximum). It is important that you use your personal email as an increasing number of agencies are using more secure servers that might block incoming email from the APCBNJ or the Testing Company. SMT/ISO Quality Testing Center will send you a link with an ID and password to choose the date and time you want to take the exam. The exam is 150 multiple choice questions administered in a point and click format. You can bookmark questions and come back to them later in the exam. There is a short (5 minute) tutorial to make sure you understand the process prior to starting the exam. You will receive your preliminary score immediately after the completing the exam. Exam scores for the “ADC” exam will be sent to the Board of Marriage and Family Therapy Examiner’ ADCC for inclusion in your file. When and where are the exams given? Expand The written exam concentrates on the 12 core competencies of addiction counseling. A good resource to review is SAMHSA’s TAP 21 Addiction Counselor Competencies: The Knowledge, Skills, and Attitudes of Professional Practice (CSAT, 2017). The TAP is available free and can be downloaded from the SAMHSA National Clearinghouse website: store.samhsa.gov/product/TAP-21-Addiction-Counseling- Competencies/SMA15-4171 . The oral exam consists of formulating and answering questions regarding a case presentation. Distance Learning Center (DLC) has prepared a “Getting Ready to Test” exam manual that helps the applicant prepare for both the written and oral examination. The manuals may be purchased at http://www.readytotest.com/ . APCBNJ has a link for “Directions for Preparing a Case Presentation.” It can be found at www.certbd.org . An IC&RC study guide is available by calling 717-540-4455. https://internationalcredentialing.org/examprep How do I prepare for the exams? Expand The oral exam is reviewed by trained addiction professionals hired as consultants by APCBNJ. Each oral exam is rated by three reviewers. Who reviews the oral exam? Expand Distance Learning Center publishes three test manuals that are available for purchase directly from the Distance Learning website ( http://www.readytotest.com/ , https://www.dlcas.com ) How can I purchase a “Getting Ready to Test” manual? Expand Yes. There are provisions for those with learning disabilities to take an un-timed written exam. When registering for the written exam, the applicant must send a written request and recent professional documentation of their disability along with the application form. Are there provisions for those with learning disabilities (ADHD, etc.) to take un-timed exams? Expand Candidates will prepare a case study and respond to each of the following questions, using the Global Criteria and providing examples. SCREENING —Describe the purpose of screening and the processes used with this client. INTAKE —Describe the elements of intake and how the intake process was completed in this case. ORIENTATION —Describe the process of orienting this client to your services. ASSESSMENT —Describe the methods and procedures used to assess this client and explain the results of those assessments. TREATMENT PLANNING —Identify the components of treatment planning and describe the treatment planning process that occurred between you and your client. COUNSELING —dentify your counseling approaches and theories, and thoroughly describe how you applied them to your client. CASE MANAGEMENT —Describe the purpose of case management and how it applied to this client. CRISIS INTERVENTION —Give an example of a crisis occurring in this case and explain how you responded to it. If no crisis occurred, give an example of a crisis using another case. CLIENT EDUCATION —What is the purpose of client education and describe how you provided it in this case. REFERRAL —Describe the process of referral and explain how it was used in this case. RECORDKEEPING —Describe the report and recordkeeping process and how they were used in this case. CONSULTATION WITH OTHER PROFESSIONALS —Describe the purpose of, the rationale for and the results of consultations necessary in this case. If no consultation occurred, provide an example from another case. (See link for 12 Core Functions and corresponding Global Criteria) http://certbd.org/site/wp-content/uploads/CoreFunctionsGlobalCriteria.pdf What can you tell me about the oral presentation? Expand You can sit for the written and oral exams only after approval by the ADCC. When an applicant submits his/her application to the ADCC and it has been approved, he/she will receive a letter stating that he/she may schedule the written and oral exam. The ADCC notifies the APCBNJ that the applicant has been approved to take the test. It is the individual’s responsibility to register with the APCBNJ to take the exam. Once both tests are passed, the ADCC schedules a background check. How do I apply to take the written and oral exam? Expand Written exam scores are available immediately upon completion of the computer-based test. When do I receive my written exam scores? Expand The written examination is an international alcohol and drug proficiency test published by the IC&RC. The test reflects the results of federal studies, CDC guidelines re: HIV, changes to the DSM (5), and a Job Task Analysis of addiction counselors. Guidance with the written exam process and sample questions can be found on the IC&RC website. The questions change with each exam. Sample test preps can be found: https://internationalcredentialing.org/examprep https://internationalcredentialing.org/ADC.Study.Guides Is there another written exam resource? Expand Should you fail the exam you may repeat the registration process and retake the exam after 90 days. Those who fail 3 times are required to take a refresher course prior to retaking the exam again. Fees apply for each attempt. Refresher courses may be taken through an approved education provider. Scores (and deficiencies) for each ‘domain’ are provided with test results. After the third attempt or thereafter to pass the written and/or oral sections of the examination, the applicant may not reapply a fourth time or any time thereafter without having successfully completed a course(s) in the subject matter(s) in which the written and/or oral examination has demonstrated the applicant’s deficiencies. What happens if I fail the written exam? How many times can I fail and would I need to repeat courses? N.J.A.C. 13:34C-2.3(e) Expand Both exams have scores, which are determined by the testing company’s “cut score” process for each type of exam. The written exam’s passing score is a score of at least 500 out of a possible 800. The Oral Exam is 76% out of 100% to pass. Are the written and oral exams pass/fail, or do I receive a grade? What grade do I need to pass? Expand Individuals holding a master’s degree and/or those who have completed certain graduate programs are not exempt from the written and/or oral exam. The exemption applies only to those individuals who hold an active New Jersey clinical license in an appropriate discipline as listed on page 15 of the LCADC application. The professional license must be appropriate to provide independent (non- supervised) practice at the master’s or doctorate level and includes: Ph.D./Psy.D. – Doctor of Psychology (New Jersey licensed) M.D/D.O. – Doctor of Medicine or Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (New Jersey licensed) LCSW – Licensed Clinical Social Worker (New Jersey licensed) APN – Advanced Practice Nurse (New Jersey licensed) LPC – Licensed Professional Counselor (New Jersey licensed) LMFT – Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (New Jersey licensed) Do graduate programs allow master’s level individuals an exemption from taking the written and/or oral exam? N.J.A.C. 13:34C-2.4(b) Expand Approval is given to take the written/oral exam upon submission of an application for certification/licensure. Schedule A of the application should be completed, or an approved Proposed Plan be on file to indicate that the candidate is currently working on completing the 300 and/or 3,000 hours of supervised training and work experience. The process above of submitting application and receiving approval to sit for written/oral exam may be completed prior to finishing all required experience hours. When can I sit for the written exam? Expand Examinations A searchable directory of licensed treatment facilities can be found on the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services’ (DMHAS) website: https://www.state.nj.us/humanservices/dmhas/resources/services/treatment/addictions.html Is there a list of all licensed treatment facilities in the state that are hiring? Expand Volunteer hours can count towards an internship as long as the experience hours are obtained at a treatment facility under the supervision of a qualified clinical supervisor. Internships completed in a medical setting or private practitioner’s office setting may count towards experience hours as long as the Proposed Plan of Supervision has been approved. See "Who is qualified to supervise me for my supervised hours? ..." question in this section for more information on who can supervise alcohol and drug counselor interns. Can I start the CADC/LCADC process as a volunteer? Will volunteer hours count towards experience hours? Expand Internship experiences may vary. However, an internship should allow the individual the opportunity to become fully immersed in the day-to-day work of an alcohol and drug treatment setting to learn and practice the core functions of working as a LCADC/CADC under the supervision of a qualified clinical supervisor. In other words, an intern should obtain a minimum of 3,000 total experience hours in all the core functions required on the LCADC/CADC application: Screening Intake Orientation Assessment Treatment Planning Individual Counseling Group Counseling Family Counseling Case Management Crisis Intervention Client Education Referral Consultation Reports/Recordkeeping What is involved in an internship? How does this differ from a regular paid position at an agency? Will both count towards experience hours? Expand Experience is valid only within five consecutive years immediately preceding the date of submission of the application. The 3,000 hours of supervised work experience may be paid or voluntary time working directly with alcohol or other drug clients. Paid or voluntary time shall be directly related to the core functions list above. How far back can experience hours be counted towards certification or licensure? N.J.A.C. 13:34C-2.3b-3 Expand Supervised and experience hours must both be supervised by a qualified clinical supervisor. The 3,000 hours of related work experience may include the 300 hours of supervised practical training. An applicant may have more than one qualified clinical supervisor. According to N.J.A.C. 13:34C-6.2, the following individuals are qualified clinical supervisors of alcohol and drug counseling interns and credentialed interns: A New Jersey-licensed clinical alcohol and drug counselor (LCADC) A New Jersey-licensed physician, who is certified by the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) or a psychiatrist with added qualifications in chemical dependency from the American Psychiatric Association; and A New Jersey certified advanced practice nurse, licensed psychologist, licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), or licensed professional counselor (LPC), all of whom shall be certified as a clinical supervisor by IC&RC (CCS), unless dually-licensed as an LCADC Qualified clinical supervisors shall have a written agreement with supervisees which outlines planned hours of practice, planned hours of clinical supervision, types of supervision, nature of work assignments and other specifications that the supervisor deems appropriate to the counselor intern’s level of training. N.J.A.C. 13:34C-6.2 (b). PLEASE NOTE: As of 2018, there are changes being considered for supervisory credentialing requirements; any changes would be announced well in advance of implementation, and would not affect those candidates with an already-approved plan of supervision The plan of supervision form is available at the Marriage and Family Therapy Examiners’, Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee website: http://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/ (Click Alcohol and Drug Committee; Click Applications and Forms; Click Proposed Plan of Supervision for CADC/LCADC (Internship) Please note that the ADCC sends an approval letter to both the CADC/LCADC intern and the qualified clinical supervisor to inform them that the Proposed Plan of Supervision has been approved. Experience hours cannot be counted until this plan has been approved. Who is qualified to supervise me for my supervised hours? Does this person need to be different from who is supervising me for my experience hours? N.J.A.C. 13:34C-6-2(a) Expand The applicant needs to complete the Documentation of 3,000 Hours of Related Work Experience (Schedule A of the application) pursuant to N.J.A.C. 13:34C-2.3(b), page six of the LCADC/CADC application, for each position for which they are documenting hours. Separate plans of supervision must be approved for each work setting and supervisor. All alcohol and drug counselor interns and credentialed interns should fill out Schedule A on a regular basis while working towards their 3,000 experience hours. Ideally, this form should be updated every three to six months to ensure documentation of experience hours is accurate and complete. It is particularly important to update the form if you change jobs or your supervisor changes or leaves your agency. How do I document experience hours if I have worked for more than one agency? Expand Yes, every time you change supervisors and/or place of employment you must resubmit an updated Proposed Plan of Supervision. Additionally, the supervisor should notify ADCC when they are no longer supervising the counselor intern. N.J.A.C. 13:34C-6.2 l) All qualified clinical supervisors of alcohol and drug counselor interns shall obtain ADCC approval prior to commencing the supervisory relationship with the alcohol and drug counselor intern. A qualified clinical supervisor shall submit evidence, on forms provided by the ADCC, that he or she has satisfied all applicable requirements of this subchapter. Please note that the ADCC sends an approval letter to both the CADC/LCADC intern and the qualified clinical supervisor to inform them that the Proposed Plan of Supervision has been approved. Experience hours cannot be counted until this plan has been approved. Do I need to update my Proposed Plan of Supervision if my clinical supervisor changes? Expand The applicant would need to do everything possible to prove that they have tried to contact the supervisor. If all avenues have failed, the applicant may complete an affidavit verifying their search for ADCC consideration. What happens if the clinical supervisor from my previous employer is no longer employed at the agency or refuses to complete the form? Expand Practicum hours may only count if they are received under the following conditions: under the supervision of a qualified clinical supervisor according to N.J.A.C. 13:34C-6.2-2; took place at an agency setting providing alcohol and drug treatment; and the internship and supervised hours incorporate the 12 core functions of alcohol and drug counseling. In some instances, if the supervision plan is pre-approved, a SAC or other school employee may be able to count a portion of their hours with ADCC approval. Can a SAC/Nurse/Social Worker apply their practicum or internship hours as experience hours? Expand Yes. The 3,000 hours of related work experience may include the 300 hours of supervised practical training. Documented work experience as a counselor, intern, trainee, or volunteer may be valid for five years as long as it includes the 12 core functions of alcohol and drug treatment. The documented and supervised hours must be under the clinical supervision of an approved supervisor. What are supervised hours? Can I get practicum and supervised hours at the same time? N.J.A.C. 13:34C-2.3b-2 Expand One can receive credit only if the supervisor meets the requirement as set forth in N.J.A.C. 13:34C-6.2. The following individuals may be qualified clinical supervisors of alcohol and drug counseling interns and credentialed interns: A New Jersey-licensed clinical alcohol and drug counselor (LCADC) i. A New Jersey-licensed physician, who is certified by the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) or a psychiatrist with added qualifications in chemical dependency from the American Psychiatric Association; and A New Jersey certified advanced practice nurse, licensed psychologist, licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), licensed marriage and family therapist (LMFT), or licensed professional counselor (LPC), all of whom shall be certified as a clinical supervisor by IC&RC (CCS), unless dually licensed with an LCADC PLEASE NOTE: As of 2018, there are changes being considered for supervisory credentialing requirements; any changes would be announced well in advance of implementation, and would not affect those candidates with an already-approved plan of supervision My supervisor is not an LCADC. Can I still get credit for these hours? Expand Experience & Supervised Hours Applications are reviewed in the order that they are received. Once an application is received, it is date stamped and reviewed by administrative staff for completeness. If the application is not complete, a deficiency letter will be sent to the applicant. If the application is complete, it will be presented to ADCC for review. ADCC meetings are held once a month. The ADCC meeting schedule, agenda, and past minutes can be found on their website: http://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/ (Click Alcohol and Drug Committee). What happens after I submit the application to the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs, State Board of Marriage and Family Examiners’ Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee? Expand The State Board of Marriage and Family Therapy Examiners’, ADCC, may request that the APCBNJ review an applicant’s course work to ensure that it meets initial core course work requirements. All application related documents should be sent to: Marriage_Family_LV@dca.lps.state.nj.us I submitted my application to the Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee, but the APCBNJ is requesting verification of my courses/hours. What is its role in this process? Expand The ADCC suggests that applicants do the following when submitting their application: Make copies of everything sent to the ADCC – application, transcripts, etc. Refer to the last correspondence received when calling the ADCC for assistance. Check your status through portal Contact ADCC, email: CollazoM@dca.njoag.gov I submitted my application to the ADCC and there is no record of it. Who do I call for help? Expand The application is reviewed by the Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee members who have been appointed by the Governor. A list of the Committee members is available on the Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee website: http://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/alcohol/ . Who reviews the CADC/LCADC application? Expand Once your application has been approved by the ADCC, you will receive a letter stating that you are approved to sit for the written or oral exam. It is your responsibility to register with the APCBNJ to take the exam. How quickly will I be contacted regarding a test date? Expand No. The timeframe for obtaining a license or certification under the grandfather provisions of N.J.S.A. 45:2D-16 of the Alcohol and Drug Counselor Licensing and Certification ended on March 15, 2006. Therefore, applicants may no longer be grandfathered for licensure or certification under N.J.A.C. 13:34C-2.1. I have many years of experience working in the field. Can I be grandfathered as a CADC or LCADC? Expand The application for the LCADC and CADC can be found on the Board of Marriage and Family Therapy Examiners’, Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee website: http://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/ (Click Alcohol and Drug Committee; Click Applications and Forms; Click Application for Licensure or Certification as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor (Regular Application) How do I find applications for licensure (LCADC) or for certification (CADC)? Expand The LCADC/CADC statutes and regulations may be found on the Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee website: http://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/ (Click Alcohol and Drug Committee; Click Laws and Regulations. Where can I find a copy of the LCADC/CADC statutes and regulations? Expand The Application Process Applications are reviewed in the order that they are received. Once an application is received, it is date stamped and reviewed by administrative staff for completeness. If the application is not complete, a deficiency letter will be sent to the applicant. If the application is complete, it will be presented to ADCC for review. ADCC meetings are held once a month. The ADCC meeting schedule, agenda, and past minutes can be found on their website: http://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/ (Click Alcohol and Drug Committee). What happens after I submit the application to the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs, State Board of Marriage and Family Examiners’ Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee? Expand The State Board of Marriage and Family Therapy Examiners’, ADCC, may request that the APCBNJ review an applicant’s course work to ensure that it meets initial core course work requirements. All application related documents should be sent to: Marriage_Family_LV@dca.lps.state.nj.us I submitted my application to the Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee, but the APCBNJ is requesting verification of my courses/hours. What is its role in this process? Expand The ADCC suggests that applicants do the following when submitting their application: Make copies of everything sent to the ADCC – application, transcripts, etc. Refer to the last correspondence received when calling the ADCC for assistance. Check your status through portal Contact ADCC, email: CollazoM@dca.njoag.gov I submitted my application to the ADCC and there is no record of it. Who do I call for help? Expand The application is reviewed by the Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee members who have been appointed by the Governor. A list of the Committee members is available on the Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee website: http://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/alcohol/ . Who reviews the CADC/LCADC application? Expand Once your application has been approved by the ADCC, you will receive a letter stating that you are approved to sit for the written or oral exam. It is your responsibility to register with the APCBNJ to take the exam. How quickly will I be contacted regarding a test date? Expand No. The timeframe for obtaining a license or certification under the grandfather provisions of N.J.S.A. 45:2D-16 of the Alcohol and Drug Counselor Licensing and Certification ended on March 15, 2006. Therefore, applicants may no longer be grandfathered for licensure or certification under N.J.A.C. 13:34C-2.1. I have many years of experience working in the field. Can I be grandfathered as a CADC or LCADC? Expand The application for the LCADC and CADC can be found on the Board of Marriage and Family Therapy Examiners’, Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee website: http://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/ (Click Alcohol and Drug Committee; Click Applications and Forms; Click Application for Licensure or Certification as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor (Regular Application) How do I find applications for licensure (LCADC) or for certification (CADC)? Expand The LCADC/CADC statutes and regulations may be found on the Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee website: http://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/ (Click Alcohol and Drug Committee; Click Laws and Regulations. Where can I find a copy of the LCADC/CADC statutes and regulations? Expand Continuing Education The Department of Law and Public Safety, Division of Consumer Affairs, State Board of Marriage and Family Therapy Examiners’ Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee (the Committee) was established on January 9, 1998 pursuant to N.J.S.A. 45:2D-1 et seq. The purpose of the Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee is to: protect the health, safety, and welfare of the people of New Jersey; regulate the practice of alcohol and drug counseling; take action against unprofessional, improper, unauthorized, or unqualified practice of alcohol and drug counseling and guard against unprofessional conduct by the licensed individuals who practice alcohol and drug counseling; and to review applications for certification and licensure and to ensure that the minimum requirements have been met. For further information, visit: http://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/alcohol/ What is the State Board of Marriage and Family Therapy Examiners’, Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee (ADCC)? Expand The Addiction Professionals Certification Board of New Jersey’s (APCBNJ) primary mission is to ensure the competency in addictions and other behavioral healthcare professionals using educational, experiential, testing, and ethical measures. Its scope is to enhance the professionalism of addictions and other healthcare professions by offering quality certification products to provide and monitor accepted ethical standards for consumer protection and to provide addiction and behavioral health cross training. APCBNJ schedules and administers the written and oral exams and reviews transcripts to determine if a course qualifies towards the required 270 hours of education in the event the education was obtained at an agency that is not an approved CADC educational provider approved by the APCBNJ. For more information about APCBNJ please visit http://www.certbd.org What is the role of the APCBNJ and what do they do? Expand The International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC) sets the international standards of practice in addiction counseling, prevention, and clinical supervision through testing and credentialing of addiction professionals. Incorporated in 1981, and currently headquartered in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, IC&RC is a voluntary membership organization comprised of certifying agencies involved in the credentialing or licensing of alcohol and other drug abuse counselors, clinical Supervisors, prevention specialists, co-occurring professionals and criminal justice professionals. For further information, visit their website at http://www.IC &RCaoda.org/about.asp What is the IC&RC? Expand Who's Who in the Process CCS & ACS The Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCS) credential is intended for use within licensed alcohol and drug counseling programs. The CCS is not a clinical practice credential and should only be used for work within healthcare or counseling settings. Private practice counselors must have a license approved by the Division of Consumer Affairs to provide independent counseling. The CCS requires five (5) years’ experience working in the field of chemical dependency. These five years’ are to be immediately prior to the date of application. Also, a minimum of three (3) years clinical supervisory experience in the field of chemical dependency within ten (10) years immediately prior to the date of application is required. The CCS applicant must document a minimum of 30 hours of clinical supervisory course work (previously approved by APCBNJ) within ten (10) years immediately prior to the date of the application. In-service training will not be accepted. The CCS application can be found at http://certbd.org . How does one become a Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCS)? Expand Made possible by NJ Department of Human Services, Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services. Professional Development About Certifications & Trainings Upcoming Renewal Trainings Resources Student Portal Scholarships & Fees FAQs Contact Us. 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Clinical Workforce Training at NJPN provides NJ-based professionals with clinical certifications, licensure, and renewal trainings that accelerate careers. About Professional Development Mail Certification Courses CDA CADC LCADC CCS ACS Mail Renewal Trainings Mandatory Legal Standards Cultural Humility Trainings Clinical Supervisor Trainings Advanced Renewal Trainings Mail Upcoming Renewal Trainings Resources Scholarships & Tuition FAQs Student Portal Home > CTWD Certifications & Trainings (List) > Certifications & Trainings Subtitle Addiction Training for Every Stage of Your Career Invest in your future and make a positive, lasting impact on NJ's communities. No matter if you're new to addiction counseling or are already a skilled practitioner, our professional development opportunities in substance use disorder treatment or recovery support will help you reach the next stage in your career. We offer courses and trainings to earn or maintain NJ Division of Consumer Affairs—Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee (DCA-ADCC)-approved credentials, including: Chemical Dependence Associate (CDA) Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCS) Approved Clinical Supervision (ACS) Advanced and Mandatory Renewal Trainings Explore Opportunities Below On This Page The Path to Certification Clinical Certifications & Licensure Clinical Trainings Scholarships & Fees FAQs Student Portal The Path to Certification Your journey to credential begins with securing an ADC (Alcohol and Drug Counselor) internship at a DMHAS (Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services) contracted SUD (Substance Use Disorder) Treatment Agency. Obtaining an ADC Intern Position. ADC Internships Step 1 You will need to submit your application for your Plan of Supervision through DCA-ADCC. Approval of Proposed Plan of Supervision With DCA-ADCC. NJ ADC-Intern
Application Process Step 2 NJPN offers initial SUD counseling certification or licensure courses that fulfill all educational hours required by the state of NJ. Sign up with NJPN for Training and Complete Coursework. Initial Certification Courses Step 3 In order to practice as a certified or licensed addiction professional in NJ, you must pass the oral and written ADC exams. Earn your Certification or License by Passing Your Exam. Exam Information Step 4 NJPN makes it easy to keep your certification or license current with our mandatory and advanced renewal continuing education trainings. Maintaining Your Credentials. Renewal Trainings Step 5 Invest in yourself and the profession by becoming a Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCS) for the next generation of addiction professionals. Nurture the Next Generation. CCS Trainings Specialize The Path to Certification Advancing Your Addiction Counseling Career, Made Simple Certifications CDA The Chemical Dependency Associate (CDA) credential is an introductory credential that offers foundation competency and education to those interested in becoming CADCs or LCADCs. Learn More Initial Certification CADC Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselors (CADC) assist those with with substance use disorders by providing individualized treatment, support and motivation along their journey toward wellness. CADC practice under the supervision of an approved supervisor and can make assessments. Learn More Initial Certification LCADC Permitted to conduct unsupervised independent practice, Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselors (LCADCs) assist those with substance use disorders by providing individualized treatment, including assessments and diagnoses, as well as support and motivation along their journey toward wellness. Learn More Initial Licensure CCS Certified Clinical Supervisors (CCS) oversee, evaluate, mentor, and educate Substance Use Disorder counseling staff and interns. Learn More Advanced Certification ACS The 15-hour Approved Clinical Supervision (ACS) training is offered through an asynchronous format to Licensed Professional Counselors (LPCs) who complete their initial CCS 30-hour training through NJPN. Learn More Advanced Certification CPS Certified Prevention Specialist (CPS) has demonstrated competence related to alcohol, tobacco and drug prevention and who provides services that build capacities of individuals and systems to promote healthy environments, lifestyles, and communities. CPS ensure that prevention policies and programs focus on public safety and well-being through primary prevention and the latest evidence-based practices. Note: Must possess a bachelor's degree in a human services-related field. Apply Now Initial Certification NJPN Addiction Course Trainer Calling all LCADCs! Help expand the substance use disorder treatment and recovery workforce—join the NJPN CTWD team as an “Invest in You” course trainer for our CADC and LCADC students. Learn More Consulting Opportunity Trainings Mandatory Legal Standards NJPN conducts Mandatory Legal Standards trainings both virtually through Zoom and in-person. These sessions fulfill the initial and bi-annual renewal requirements for a Committee-approved Legal Standards course (for more information refer to: N.J.A.C.13:34C-5.2 d ). Learn More Mandatory Renewal Training Advanced Renewal Trainings NJPN hosts renewal trainings on current field trends and evidence-based practices useful for addiction professionals in their practices. Learn More Renewal Training Cultural Humility Trainings NJPN hosts Cultural Humility trainings designed to foster understanding, respect, and sensitivity towards different cultures, particularly within the context of prevention work. These trainings may focus on developing self-awareness, recognizing biases, and promoting open dialogue to enhance cultural competence among participants. Learn More Cultural Humility Training Opiate Training NJPN offers opiate training sessions for LPCs and LCSWs in New Jersey. These sessions are designed to equip professionals with the essential knowledge and skills to address opioid use disorders and related issues in their practices. Learn More Opiate Training Are you looking for other types of professional training opportunities? NJPN also offers trainings for Prevention and Peer Recovery Support workers. Prevention Peer Trainings What People Are Saying “I had a positive experience. Online learning allows opportunities for increased levels of social networking to gather more comprehensive resources.” L/CADC Program Graduate SUPPORT OPPORTUNITIES Resources for Success Students have access to tools and guidance that support their addiction counseling training. ADC Internship Assistance NJPN helps connect eligible individuals with DMHAS licensed treatment agencies seeking ADC Interns. Learn About ADC Internships Scholarships & Tuition NJPN provides scholarships to eligible students. Learn about scholarships and tuition. Scholarship & Tuition Info FAQ Have Questions? DMHAS is the state mental health authority (SMHA) and the Single State Authority on Substance Abuse (SSA) that plans, monitors, and evaluates New Jersey's mental health and substance use prevention, early intervention, treatment, and recovery efforts. DMHAS does not grant licenses or certification to alcohol and drug counselors. However, DMHAS does publish residential and outpatient treatment regulations that detail the qualifications required to work at a DMHAS-licensed facility. What is the role of the Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) in the certification and licensing process? Expand The International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC) sets the international standards of practice in addiction counseling, prevention, and clinical supervision through testing and credentialing of addiction professionals. Incorporated in 1981, and currently headquartered in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, IC&RC is a voluntary membership organization comprised of certifying agencies involved in the credentialing or licensing of alcohol and other drug abuse counselors, clinical Supervisors, prevention specialists, co-occurring professionals and criminal justice professionals. For further information, visit their website at http://www.IC &RCaoda.org/about.asp What is the IC&RC? Expand The Addiction Professionals Certification Board of New Jersey’s (APCBNJ) primary mission is to ensure the competency in addictions and other behavioral healthcare professionals using educational, experiential, testing, and ethical measures. Its scope is to enhance the professionalism of addictions and other healthcare professions by offering quality certification products to provide and monitor accepted ethical standards for consumer protection and to provide addiction and behavioral health cross training. APCBNJ schedules and administers the written and oral exams and reviews transcripts to determine if a course qualifies towards the required 270 hours of education in the event the education was obtained at an agency that is not an approved CADC educational provider approved by the APCBNJ. For more information about APCBNJ please visit http://www.certbd.org What is the role of the APCBNJ and what do they do? Expand The Department of Law and Public Safety, Division of Consumer Affairs, State Board of Marriage and Family Therapy Examiners’ Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee (the Committee) was established on January 9, 1998 pursuant to N.J.S.A. 45:2D-1 et seq. The purpose of the Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee is to: protect the health, safety, and welfare of the people of New Jersey; regulate the practice of alcohol and drug counseling; take action against unprofessional, improper, unauthorized, or unqualified practice of alcohol and drug counseling and guard against unprofessional conduct by the licensed individuals who practice alcohol and drug counseling; and to review applications for certification and licensure and to ensure that the minimum requirements have been met. For further information, visit: http://www.njconsumeraffairs.gov/alcohol/ What is the State Board of Marriage and Family Therapy Examiners’, Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee (ADCC)? Expand More FAQs Made possible by NJ Department of Human Services, Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services. Professional Development About Certifications & Trainings Upcoming Renewal Trainings Resources Student Portal Scholarships & Tuition FAQs Contact Us. Name* Email* Message* Submit Message