Tennessee

Licensure in the state of Tennessee is through NAADAC. To become a Licensed Alcohol/Drugs of Abuse Counselor (LADAC), you must complete both the written and oral examinations in addition to completing other prerequisites. Tennessee is currently making some changes to create two levels to this license.

IC&RC is involved in Prevention certification. You can get more info at http://www.tncertification.org/

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I become a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor (LADAC) in Tennessee?

To become a LADAC in Tennessee, you must complete the requirements set by the Tennessee Board of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors. This involves:

• Completing a state-approved educational program.
• Accumulating supervised clinical hours as required by the board.
• Passing both the written and oral examinations administered by the state board.

Note: Tennessee is revising its licensure process to create two levels of LADAC, so it’s essential to stay updated with the latest requirements on the Tennessee Association of Addiction Counselors’ website.

Resources:

• Tennessee Association of Addiction Counselors
• Tennessee Board of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors

2. Can I become a substance abuse counselor in Tennessee if I have a criminal record?

Yes, it is possible to become a substance abuse counselor in Tennessee with a criminal record, but the outcome depends on the specifics of your situation and the state’s regulations. The addictions community is often forgiving of past convictions, especially if you have demonstrated rehabilitation and a commitment to helping others.

The best course of action is to contact the Tennessee Board of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors directly for guidance based on your circumstances. They will advise you on the application process and any additional steps you may need to take.

Contact Information:

• Tennessee Board of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors
• Address: 665 Mainstream Dr., Nashville, TN 37243
• Phone: (615) 532-3202

3. What are the average salaries for substance abuse counselors in Tennessee?

The average salary for a substance abuse counselor in Tennessee varies by location:

• Statewide Average: $38,000 per year
• Memphis, TN: $37,000 per year
• Nashville, TN: $39,000 per year
• Knoxville, TN: $42,000 per year
• Chattanooga, TN: $35,000 per year

These figures highlight the regional differences in salary. Counselors in larger cities or areas with higher demand for substance abuse services often earn higher wages.

4. Can LADAC 2 counselors be listed on insurance panels in Tennessee?

LADAC 2 counselors can be listed on insurance panels, but it may depend on the policies of individual insurance providers. Some insurance companies accept LADAC 2 counselors as network providers, allowing them to bill for services rendered.

You should check directly with insurance companies or health management organizations (HMOs) in your area to understand their requirements for listing as a provider. Alternatively, contacting the Tennessee Board of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors or NAADAC can provide further guidance.

5. Where can I find the best education programs for substance abuse counseling in Nashville, TN?

If you want to pursue a career in substance abuse counseling in Nashville, several reputable schools offer relevant programs. Institutions such as Columbia State Community College and Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU) provide accredited social work and substance abuse counseling courses.

Consider the following steps when choosing a program:

• Verify that the program is accredited by the appropriate state and national organizations (e.g., NAADAC).
• Ensure the program offers a pathway to certification and licensure as a substance abuse counselor.
• Contact school advisors for personalized guidance based on your educational background and career goals.

6. What is the Tennessee Association of Addiction Counselors (TAADAC) role?

The Tennessee Association of Addiction Counselors (TAADAC) is an affiliate of NAADAC and plays a crucial role in supporting substance abuse counselors in the state. TAADAC offers professional development opportunities, advocacy, and resources that counselors need to maintain certification and stay updated on best practices.

TAADAC also collaborates with state licensing boards to ensure that professionals in Tennessee have access to accurate and up-to-date information regarding licensure and continuing education requirements.

Contact Information:

• Address: 7340 Woodstock-Cuba Rd., Millington, TN 38053
• Phone: (901) 496-5762

7. How can I apply for substance abuse counseling jobs in Tennessee?

Applying for substance abuse counseling jobs in Tennessee involves several steps:

• Ensure you have the necessary certification (e.g., LADAC or CAC) and experience.
• Update your resume to highlight relevant skills, certifications, and experience.
• Utilize job boards such as Indeed, LinkedIn, and the Tennessee Association of Addiction Counselors’ website for listings.
• Network with local agencies and attend TAADAC events for direct job leads.

Example Job Posting: The Right Solution, Inc. currently has a part-time opening for an Alcohol and Drug Counselor in Bristol, Tennessee. Qualifications include:

• State certification or licensure as a substance abuse counselor
• Minimum of 3 years of experience
• Ability to work with financially disadvantaged youth aged 16-24

For more information, visit The Right Solution Counseling Services.

8. How do I update my information with the Tennessee Board of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors?

If you need to update your information, such as the address of your practice or contact details, you should reach out directly to the Tennessee Board of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors:

Contact Details:

• Address: 665 Mainstream Dr., Nashville, TN 37243
• Phone: (615) 532-3202

Ensure you provide the correct details and any required forms or documents when submitting your request.

9. How do I get my Tennessee CAC (Certified Addiction Counselor) certification?

To obtain your CAC certification in Tennessee, follow these steps:

• Complete a state-approved educational program in substance abuse counseling.
• Accumulate the required supervised clinical hours.
• Pass the IC&RC (International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium) exams, as Tennessee uses IC&RC for prevention certification.

For more information on CAC certification requirements and application procedures, visit the TN Certification Board.