| Counselor Certification Information |
Program graduates are eligible to sit for the Certified Chemical Dependency Counselor
Certification (CCDC) examination offered by the California Certification Board of Chemical
Dependency Counselors (CCBCDC).
The CCBCDC is Accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) and
approved by the State of California Alcohol and Drug Programs Administration.
Pacific Coast College is approved by the Bureau for Private and Postsecondary Education.
What is certification?
Certification is one of the credentialing methods required for counselors who provide services in
an alcohol and drug treatment program licensed by the state. A certified addictions counselor
(CAC)
possesses a body of knowledge, skills, training and work experience in the treatment of alcohol or
substance use disorders that distinguishes the addictions counselor from other health care
professionals. Proficient alcohol and drug counselors encompass a spectrum of skills specific to
treating alcohol and substance use clients/patients. Counselor certification consists of several
levels depending on the state in which the addictions counselor resides. No counselor is allowed
to provide clinical services beyond his/her level of competence, certification or licensure.
Do I need to become certified?
Across the United States, certification is becoming a fundamental prerequisite to work as a health
care professional. Some states require a national and/or state certification in order to work as an
addictions counselor. Certification indicates to others that you have the necessary education,
training, skills and knowledge to work effectively in this role. While a license or state certification is
important to perform in a given field, national certification is important for professional recognition
and external verification and accountability. Some states also require a license or registration.
Each state may have different levels of credentialing. It is important to learn what the requirements
are for your state.
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| PACIFIC COAST COLLEGE |
