Addiction Counseling and Treatment Certificate

Career Certificate
Cost
$9,662*

Prepare to change lives

Use your new skills in an agency or program to help people, including children, adolescents and adults. The certificate is an Advanced and Preparatory Training Program that prepares you for work in:

  • treatment programs for addiction and substance use disorders
  • community human services programs

What can you do with a certificate in Addiction Counseling and Treatment?

A certificate prepares you for a professional role in human services. You can also take the exam to become an Illinois Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (C.A.D.C.). By adding on a degree or license, you can move into administrative roles. 

  • addictions counselor
  • substance use counselor
  • certified alcohol and drug counselor
  • clinical directors
  • agency directors

CLC alumnus Andrea Anderson talks about her academic journey and her career as a licensed mental health therapist and Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (C.A.D.C.):

Highlights

  • National Addiction Studies Accreditation Commission

    This program is commended for excellence in the preparation of the 21st-century addictions professional workforce.

  • WIOA Program

    Eligible for Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA)-awarded vouchers.

  • 100% Online

    Can be completed 100% online.

  • Financial Aid/Scholarships Available

    Based on need and/or achievement. Explore ways to pay for college.

  • Career Certificate

    Earn a career certificate in 1 year or less to refine your skills into an in-demand career.

  • Program Length: 2 Years

    Full-time students finish in 2 years.

Career Outlook

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Need help?

Your College & Career Navigator (CCN) is your "go-to person" ready to help you get started at CLC.

Your CCN guides you through the admission process, helps you choose your academic program, enroll in classes and connect you with resources.

Talk to a CCN

Recommended Pathway

This pathway serves as a guide for students to complete the degree or certificate assuming full-time enrollment (registered in 12 or more credit hours per semester) with Semester 1 typically representing a Fall term. Students are strongly encouraged to meet with their College and Career Navigator (CCN) to identify coursework that will meet degree requirements based on individual academic goals. For a more inclusive list of course options, see the college catalog.

Icon Key

  • Credit for prior learning available
  • Dual credit options available
  • Global citizenship
  • Online/Virtual options available

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    CLC 120

    CLC 120 College Success Seminar

    Class Description

    This course is designed to teach students attitudes and skills valuable for college success. Topics may include: growth mindset, self-advocacy skills, college resources, college culture, financial literacy, and academic success strategies, such as study skills, time management, and goal setting. Throughout this course, students will develop skills necessary for promoting positive human relations in a diverse society.
         		2
    HUS 121

    HUS 121 Health and Nutrition

    Class Description

    This course presents the student with concepts related to achieving optimal health and well-being. This includes meeting personal needs as well as the health and safety needs for children, adolescents, and adults in group and treatment settings. Strong emphasis is placed on nutrition, health, and safety issues, including healthy lifestyles, prevention, physical fitness, scientific and economic data, food policy, and controversies. Students will examine various models of physical and mental health, discuss stress responses, substance use disorders, and chronic diseases, and identify risk factors and their interrelationships with healthy nutrition and behaviors.
         		3
    HUS 123

    HUS 123 Introduction to Group Dynamics

    Class Description

    This course introduces basic concepts and theories of group dynamics, including group development and functioning, communication patterns, leadership, and conflict management. Laboratory experiences provide opportunities for self-awareness through observations of group behavior, working within groups, and group leadership.
         		3
    HUS 128

    HUS 128 Introduction to Counseling Skills

    Class Description

    This course provides the student with an introduction to the foundational theories and skills necessary in the counseling field and explores the dynamics of establishing positive relationships with people in need of human services. The counseling process and the issues of intervention, therapeutic interviewing, confidentiality, and empathic communication will be presented. This course includes a mandatory field experience of 40 hours with an HUS Department Chair pre-approved social service agency.
         		3
    HUS 140

    HUS 140 Drugs and Society

    Class Description

    This course provides the student with an historical background of drugs of abuse and their impact on individuals and society. Topics addressed include an in-depth study of specific licit and illicit drugs and the pharmacological and behavioral effects within the major classifications of substances. Additional topics include laws and regulations, individual and societal problems, prevention strategies, and trends and statistics.
         		3
    HUS 231

    HUS 231 Adult Development and Aging

    Class Description

    This course integrates theory and research related to changes across adulthood in areas such as: biological, cognitive, personality, mental health, social-emotional, careers, life review, and closure. Students will gain an understanding of the aging process using a lifespan perspective focusing on emerging/early adulthood to late adulthood within a multicultural context. Note: HUS 231 and PSY 231 are cross-listed.
         		3
    • Course Code CLC 120
      Course Title

      CLC 120 College Success Seminar

      Class Description

      This course is designed to teach students attitudes and skills valuable for college success. Topics may include: growth mindset, self-advocacy skills, college resources, college culture, financial literacy, and academic success strategies, such as study skills, time management, and goal setting. Throughout this course, students will develop skills necessary for promoting positive human relations in a diverse society.
      Credits 2
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code HUS 121
      Course Title

      HUS 121 Health and Nutrition

      Class Description

      This course presents the student with concepts related to achieving optimal health and well-being. This includes meeting personal needs as well as the health and safety needs for children, adolescents, and adults in group and treatment settings. Strong emphasis is placed on nutrition, health, and safety issues, including healthy lifestyles, prevention, physical fitness, scientific and economic data, food policy, and controversies. Students will examine various models of physical and mental health, discuss stress responses, substance use disorders, and chronic diseases, and identify risk factors and their interrelationships with healthy nutrition and behaviors.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code HUS 123
      Course Title

      HUS 123 Introduction to Group Dynamics

      Class Description

      This course introduces basic concepts and theories of group dynamics, including group development and functioning, communication patterns, leadership, and conflict management. Laboratory experiences provide opportunities for self-awareness through observations of group behavior, working within groups, and group leadership.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code HUS 128
      Course Title

      HUS 128 Introduction to Counseling Skills

      Class Description

      This course provides the student with an introduction to the foundational theories and skills necessary in the counseling field and explores the dynamics of establishing positive relationships with people in need of human services. The counseling process and the issues of intervention, therapeutic interviewing, confidentiality, and empathic communication will be presented. This course includes a mandatory field experience of 40 hours with an HUS Department Chair pre-approved social service agency.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code HUS 140
      Course Title

      HUS 140 Drugs and Society

      Class Description

      This course provides the student with an historical background of drugs of abuse and their impact on individuals and society. Topics addressed include an in-depth study of specific licit and illicit drugs and the pharmacological and behavioral effects within the major classifications of substances. Additional topics include laws and regulations, individual and societal problems, prevention strategies, and trends and statistics.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code HUS 231
      Course Title

      HUS 231 Adult Development and Aging

      Class Description

      This course integrates theory and research related to changes across adulthood in areas such as: biological, cognitive, personality, mental health, social-emotional, careers, life review, and closure. Students will gain an understanding of the aging process using a lifespan perspective focusing on emerging/early adulthood to late adulthood within a multicultural context. Note: HUS 231 and PSY 231 are cross-listed.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    HUS 151

    HUS 151 Addiction Counseling and Treatment I

    Class Description

    This course will provide an overview of addiction, including the addiction process, addictive disorders, treatment and recovery, relapse, self-help groups, and milieu management. Students will study theories of addiction, and gain an understanding of addiction as a brain disease and how drugs affect the physical, emotional, and social aspects of the person. Societal and cultural views of addiction will be discussed. In addition, this course will focus on assessment and treatment of families where one or more members have an addictive disorder. Topics in this area include codependency, survival strategies of family members, and family interaction patterns and communication processes. Intervention techniques will also be covered.
         		3
    HUS 152

    HUS 152 Process Addictions/Impulse Disorders

    Class Description

    This course will examine the addictive process as it is manifested in diverse social behaviors. Students will study similarities and differences of process/behavioral addictions, impulse control disorders, and compulsive behaviors. Focus will be on etiology, assessment, treatment, legal issues, and family issues. These various behaviors and disorders will include, but not be limited to the following: gambling, eating disorders, work, sex, compulsive buying, shoplifting, pyromania, and intermittent explosive disorder. The relationship of these disorders will be compared and contrasted with alcohol and other drug addictions.
         		2
    HUS 153

    HUS 153 Diverse/Multicultural Populations

    Class Description

    This course provides the students with an analysis of the different populations of clients in substance abuse treatment settings, including age, ethnicity, racial, cultural, gender, sexual minorities, people with disabilities, co-occurring disorders. Clients in criminal justice settings will also be addressed. For each population studied, differential addiction patterns will be explained, response to traditional treatment methods will be identified, and research data regarding treatment modes to accommodate the needs of diverse populations will be analyzed and applied.
         		2
    HUS 154

    HUS 154 Ethics in Human Services

    Class Description

    This course provides the student with an introduction to multiple ethical considerations in the counselor-client relationship. Topics considered will include personal values of professional staff, confidentiality, sexual and social contact with clients, self-determination, conflicts of interest, dual relationships, and more. Students will also consider application of agency policies, professional ethics, and the law. Recommended Prerequisite: HUS 140 (C or better) and HUS 128 (C or better)
         		2
    HUS 156

    HUS 156 Pharm & Disease in Substance Use

    Class Description

    This course provides an exploration of the psychotropic medications and diseases that impact many persons with substance use disorders. Students will become familiar with neurobiological processes, including neurotransmission, the various elements of the nervous system, and the effects, mechanisms, and actions of classes of psychotropic drugs. They will study the terms and abbreviations used in the medical and psychotherapy profession. Students will explore the biological, social and psychological aspects of communicable diseases and their relationship with substance use disorders. Specific topics include epidemiology, disease progression and treatment of HIV, STDs and hepatitis. Risk assessment, risk reduction, psychological interventions, medical management and legal issues are included.
         		3
    • Course Code HUS 151
      Course Title

      HUS 151 Addiction Counseling and Treatment I

      Class Description

      This course will provide an overview of addiction, including the addiction process, addictive disorders, treatment and recovery, relapse, self-help groups, and milieu management. Students will study theories of addiction, and gain an understanding of addiction as a brain disease and how drugs affect the physical, emotional, and social aspects of the person. Societal and cultural views of addiction will be discussed. In addition, this course will focus on assessment and treatment of families where one or more members have an addictive disorder. Topics in this area include codependency, survival strategies of family members, and family interaction patterns and communication processes. Intervention techniques will also be covered.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code HUS 152
      Course Title

      HUS 152 Process Addictions/Impulse Disorders

      Class Description

      This course will examine the addictive process as it is manifested in diverse social behaviors. Students will study similarities and differences of process/behavioral addictions, impulse control disorders, and compulsive behaviors. Focus will be on etiology, assessment, treatment, legal issues, and family issues. These various behaviors and disorders will include, but not be limited to the following: gambling, eating disorders, work, sex, compulsive buying, shoplifting, pyromania, and intermittent explosive disorder. The relationship of these disorders will be compared and contrasted with alcohol and other drug addictions.
      Credits 2
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code HUS 153
      Course Title

      HUS 153 Diverse/Multicultural Populations

      Class Description

      This course provides the students with an analysis of the different populations of clients in substance abuse treatment settings, including age, ethnicity, racial, cultural, gender, sexual minorities, people with disabilities, co-occurring disorders. Clients in criminal justice settings will also be addressed. For each population studied, differential addiction patterns will be explained, response to traditional treatment methods will be identified, and research data regarding treatment modes to accommodate the needs of diverse populations will be analyzed and applied.
      Credits 2
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code HUS 154
      Course Title

      HUS 154 Ethics in Human Services

      Class Description

      This course provides the student with an introduction to multiple ethical considerations in the counselor-client relationship. Topics considered will include personal values of professional staff, confidentiality, sexual and social contact with clients, self-determination, conflicts of interest, dual relationships, and more. Students will also consider application of agency policies, professional ethics, and the law. Recommended Prerequisite: HUS 140 (C or better) and HUS 128 (C or better)
      Credits 2
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code HUS 156
      Course Title

      HUS 156 Pharm & Disease in Substance Use

      Class Description

      This course provides an exploration of the psychotropic medications and diseases that impact many persons with substance use disorders. Students will become familiar with neurobiological processes, including neurotransmission, the various elements of the nervous system, and the effects, mechanisms, and actions of classes of psychotropic drugs. They will study the terms and abbreviations used in the medical and psychotherapy profession. Students will explore the biological, social and psychological aspects of communicable diseases and their relationship with substance use disorders. Specific topics include epidemiology, disease progression and treatment of HIV, STDs and hepatitis. Risk assessment, risk reduction, psychological interventions, medical management and legal issues are included.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    HUS 251

    HUS 251 Addiction Counseling and Treatment II

    Class Description

    This course will provide an overview of the treatment process from evaluation and intake through discharge, with an emphasis placed on interviewing skills, record keeping and documentation. Specific topics include screening, assessment, diagnosis, intake, treatment planning, case management, co-occurring disorders, discharge planning, and referral. The course encompasses a study of screening and assessment procedures used to gather information during the client intake process that form the basis for a multivariate diagnosis of addictive disorders as described in the current edition of the DSM. Screening and assessment instruments will be utilized with the Bio/Psycho/Social evaluation to formulate and support a Diagnostic Summary. The current ASAM Patient Placement Criteria will be utilized to match the client with the appropriate level of care and appropriate differential treatment plan.
         		4
    HUS 253

    HUS 253 Advanced Addictions Counseling Skills

    Class Description

    This course is a study of the major theoretical approaches used in counseling alcoholism, substance abuse, and addictive disorders. Theories and principles of both group work and individual counseling in a variety of human service settings are explored. Students are expected to participate as both clients and counselors in role plays to apply this knowledge. Client problems that often coincide with addictive disorders will be addressed.
         		3
    HUS 274

    HUS 274 Human Services Practicum Orientation

    Class Description

    This course prepares students for the practicum experience in the various Human Services Programs. Students will gain an understanding of the practicum process, required paperwork, ethical considerations, and the supervision requirements. In addition, students will prepare resumes, practice interviewing skills, develop professional demeanor, and begin the interview process with potential practicum sites.NOTE: Application for HUS 274 must be submitted to the HUS Department Chair. Prerequisites for HUS 274 may be taken concurrently or waived upon course review and determination by HUS Department Chair.
         		1
    • Course Code HUS 251
      Course Title

      HUS 251 Addiction Counseling and Treatment II

      Class Description

      This course will provide an overview of the treatment process from evaluation and intake through discharge, with an emphasis placed on interviewing skills, record keeping and documentation. Specific topics include screening, assessment, diagnosis, intake, treatment planning, case management, co-occurring disorders, discharge planning, and referral. The course encompasses a study of screening and assessment procedures used to gather information during the client intake process that form the basis for a multivariate diagnosis of addictive disorders as described in the current edition of the DSM. Screening and assessment instruments will be utilized with the Bio/Psycho/Social evaluation to formulate and support a Diagnostic Summary. The current ASAM Patient Placement Criteria will be utilized to match the client with the appropriate level of care and appropriate differential treatment plan.
      Credits 4
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code HUS 253
      Course Title

      HUS 253 Advanced Addictions Counseling Skills

      Class Description

      This course is a study of the major theoretical approaches used in counseling alcoholism, substance abuse, and addictive disorders. Theories and principles of both group work and individual counseling in a variety of human service settings are explored. Students are expected to participate as both clients and counselors in role plays to apply this knowledge. Client problems that often coincide with addictive disorders will be addressed.
      Credits 3
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code HUS 274
      Course Title

      HUS 274 Human Services Practicum Orientation

      Class Description

      This course prepares students for the practicum experience in the various Human Services Programs. Students will gain an understanding of the practicum process, required paperwork, ethical considerations, and the supervision requirements. In addition, students will prepare resumes, practice interviewing skills, develop professional demeanor, and begin the interview process with potential practicum sites.NOTE: Application for HUS 274 must be submitted to the HUS Department Chair. Prerequisites for HUS 274 may be taken concurrently or waived upon course review and determination by HUS Department Chair.
      Credits 1
      Course Highlights

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    HUS 299

    HUS 299 Special Topics in Human Services

    Class Description

    Special topics will be developed for the different Human Services Options. Topics developed will focus on a specific current issue in the areas of adult services or alcohol and substance abuse. NOTE: A maximum of six (6) credit hours of HUS 299 may be used as elective credit toward an A.A.S. degree in Human Services.
         		2
    HUS 275

    HUS 275 Addiction Counseling Practicum I

    Class Description

    This course is an on-site, unpaid supervised practicum experience working directly with clients, family members, and groups in community treatment centers for substance use disorders and addictions. Experiences may include in-patient, out-patient and intensive out-patient models.To apply this course toward a certificate or degree, the student must complete a total of 300 hours of practicum and coursework. This is a variable credit course (1-4 credits), with 75 practicum hours required per credit. This course is repeatable for a maximum of four (4) credits or 300 practicum hours.
         		4
    • Course Code HUS 299
      Course Title

      HUS 299 Special Topics in Human Services

      Class Description

      Special topics will be developed for the different Human Services Options. Topics developed will focus on a specific current issue in the areas of adult services or alcohol and substance abuse. NOTE: A maximum of six (6) credit hours of HUS 299 may be used as elective credit toward an A.A.S. degree in Human Services.
      Credits 2
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code HUS 275
      Course Title

      HUS 275 Addiction Counseling Practicum I

      Class Description

      This course is an on-site, unpaid supervised practicum experience working directly with clients, family members, and groups in community treatment centers for substance use disorders and addictions. Experiences may include in-patient, out-patient and intensive out-patient models.To apply this course toward a certificate or degree, the student must complete a total of 300 hours of practicum and coursework. This is a variable credit course (1-4 credits), with 75 practicum hours required per credit. This course is repeatable for a maximum of four (4) credits or 300 practicum hours.
      Credits 4
      Course Highlights

  • Course Code Course Title Credits Course Highlights
    HUS 276

    HUS 276 Addiction Counseling Practicum II

    Class Description

    This course is a continuation of Addiction Counseling Practicum I, HUS 275. When appropriate, Practicum II will be performed in a different setting than Practicum I. The student will be expected to initiate a leadership role in therapeutic intervention with clients at a higher skill level than in Practicum I. To apply this course toward a certificate or degree, the student must complete a total of 300 hours of practicum and coursework. This is a variable credit course (1-4 credits), with 75 practicum hours required per credit. This course is repeatable for a maximum of four (4) credits or 300 practicum hours.
         		4
    HUS 278

    HUS 278 Addiction Counselor Capstone

    Class Description

    This course provides a review of the requirements for certification as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) through ICB/IAODAPCA. Students will be familiarized with the certification process, increase their knowledge and skills as addiction counselors, and review for the written examination. Test-taking strategies, examination references, anxiety and stress reduction tactics, and other approaches for increasing test-taking confidence will be covered. This course is designed for the new counselor entering the field, students completing an ICB Accredited Training Program, and counselors interested in refreshing their knowledge, skills, and attitudes.
         		1
    • Course Code HUS 276
      Course Title

      HUS 276 Addiction Counseling Practicum II

      Class Description

      This course is a continuation of Addiction Counseling Practicum I, HUS 275. When appropriate, Practicum II will be performed in a different setting than Practicum I. The student will be expected to initiate a leadership role in therapeutic intervention with clients at a higher skill level than in Practicum I. To apply this course toward a certificate or degree, the student must complete a total of 300 hours of practicum and coursework. This is a variable credit course (1-4 credits), with 75 practicum hours required per credit. This course is repeatable for a maximum of four (4) credits or 300 practicum hours.
      Credits 4
      Course Highlights
    • Course Code HUS 278
      Course Title

      HUS 278 Addiction Counselor Capstone

      Class Description

      This course provides a review of the requirements for certification as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) through ICB/IAODAPCA. Students will be familiarized with the certification process, increase their knowledge and skills as addiction counselors, and review for the written examination. Test-taking strategies, examination references, anxiety and stress reduction tactics, and other approaches for increasing test-taking confidence will be covered. This course is designed for the new counselor entering the field, students completing an ICB Accredited Training Program, and counselors interested in refreshing their knowledge, skills, and attitudes.
      Credits 1
      Course Highlights

Total Credit Hours

48

Female student taking notes in class

Human Services at CLC

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This certificate is just one possible way to study human services. Get the bigger picture—degrees, credentials and extra options.

View the Human Services Program Overview

Frequently asked questions

  • Photo of Andrea Anderson

    Andrea Anderson

    Graduate

    “This particular program at CLC for the C.A.D.C. is more advanced than my master's degree program was. It is the one that teaches you the most.”

    Andrea studied Addiction Counseling and Treatment in the Human Services program at CLC. She is a licensed mental health therapist with a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counseling (C.A.D.C.) designation.

    Watch Andrea's story

    Photo of Andrea Anderson

*Cost includes tuition and other fees, including books and materials before financial aid is applied, such as grants, loans or scholarships. There are many opportunities for financial assistance at CLC. Learn more about Cost of Attendance.

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