Texas

 
In Texas, the following credentials are available.

• Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor – (AADC)
• Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Counselor – (ADC)
• Advanced Certified Prevention Specialist – (ACPS)
• Certified Prevention Specialist – (CPS)
• Certified Prevention Specialist Intern – (CPS-I)
• Associate Prevention Specialist – (APS)
• Certified Chemical Dependency Specialist – (CCDS)
• Certified Compulsive Gambling Counselor – (CCGC)
• Certified Criminal Justice Addictions Professional Applicant Status – (CCJP-A)
• Certified Criminal Justice Addictions Professionals – (CCJP)
• Certified Clinical Supervisor – (CCS)
• Peer Mentor / Peer Recovery Coach Designation – (PM/PRC)
• Peer Recovery Support Specialist – (PRS)

You can see more details about these credentials at http://www.tcbap.org/?page=47

Average Salaries in Texas

In Texas, becoming a certified substance abuse counselor offers a rewarding career helping individuals recover from addiction. As one of the states most affected by substance abuse, particularly opioids and alcohol, Texas has an increasing demand for skilled professionals in the field of addiction counseling.

This guide will walk you through the steps to becoming certified in Texas, including educational requirements, clinical experience, exams, and continuing education.

Why Become Certified in Texas?

Substance abuse in Texas has reached critical levels, with the opioid crisis alone contributing to over 2,500 deaths annually in the state (Texas Department of State Health Services, 2021). Alcohol addiction and other substance use disorders also remain widespread. Certified addiction counselors are essential in providing the support and guidance needed to help individuals on the road to recovery.

Becoming certified in Texas opens up numerous career opportunities in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, and private practice, allowing you to make a positive impact on those affected by addiction.

Texas Certification Requirements

The Texas certification process is regulated by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) and the Texas Certification Board of Addiction Professionals (TCBAP). The primary certifications are the Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC) and the Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC).

Educational Requirements

The educational requirements to become a substance abuse counselor in Texas are as follows:

• Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC): Requires an associate’s degree or higher in a behavioral science field such as psychology, sociology, social work, or addiction studies. The degree must include at least 270 hours of approved education specific to substance abuse counseling, covering topics like:

  • Ethics
  • Counseling techniques
  • Treatment planning
  • Client assessment
  • Co-occurring disorders

• Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC): Requires a high school diploma or GED and 270 hours of education in substance abuse counseling. Candidates with a higher degree may be able to reduce the amount of clinical experience required.

Tip:

Many Texas-based schools, such as Texas Tech University and The University of Texas at Austin, offer degree programs that meet the educational requirements for the LCDC.

Experience Requirements

In addition to the educational requirements, candidates must also complete supervised clinical experience:

• LCDC: Requires 4,000 hours of supervised work experience in chemical dependency counseling for candidates with an associate’s degree. For those with a bachelor’s degree or higher, the required number of hours is reduced to 2,000.

• CADC: Requires 6,000 hours of supervised clinical experience for those with a high school diploma. The hours are reduced to 4,000 hours for those with an associate’s degree.

Practical Advice:

You can gain supervised experience at facilities such as Texas Health Resources, The Council on Recovery, and Austin Recovery, which offer comprehensive substance abuse treatment programs throughout the state.

Certification Exams

After completing your education and supervised experience, the next step is to pass a certification exam. Texas uses the International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC) exam for both LCDC and CADC certifications.

• IC&RC Alcohol and Drug Counselor (ADC) Exam: This exam tests your knowledge in addiction counseling techniques, ethics, treatment planning, and client assessment.

Study Tips:

Take advantage of IC&RC-approved study guides and practice exams to prepare. The Texas Certification Board of Addiction Professionals (TCBAP) also offers workshops and resources to help candidates succeed.

Application Process

Once you have completed your education, supervised clinical hours, and passed the certification exam, you can apply for certification through the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC).

Steps to Apply:

1. Complete the Application: Download the application from the Texas HHSC website.
2. Submit Required Documentation: Provide the following:
   • Official transcripts and certificates
   • Proof of completed supervised clinical hours
   • Exam results
3. Pay the Application Fee: Application fees range from $150 to $300, depending on the level of certification.
4. Submit the Application: Submit your application online or by mail. Keep copies of all documents for your records.

Renewal and Continuing Education

Certification renewal is required every two years. Continuing education helps counselors stay up-to-date on the latest treatment methods and industry standards.

• LCDC and CADC Renewal: Requires 40 hours of continuing education (CEUs) every two years, with 6 hours dedicated to ethics training. CEUs should cover addiction counseling advancements, clinical supervision, and co-occurring disorders.

Continuing education opportunities are available through HHSC, TCBAP, and organizations like The University of Texas at Austin and Texas Association of Addiction Professionals (TAAP).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does it take to become a certified addiction counselor in Texas?
The time frame varies based on your education level. Those with an associate’s degree typically take 2 to 4 years to complete the required supervised clinical hours and pass the exam. For those with a bachelor’s or higher degree, the process may take 1 to 2 years after graduation.

Can I complete my certification education online?
Many accredited institutions offer online programs that meet Texas’s educational requirements for addiction counselors. However, supervised clinical experience must be completed in person at an approved facility.

Is my Texas certification transferable to other states?
Yes, Texas participates in reciprocity agreements through IC&RC, allowing your certification transferable to other states that recognize IC&RC credentials. Check with the certification board in the state where you’re moving for specific reciprocity requirements.

What is the cost of certification in Texas?
The total certification cost, including exam fees and application fees, typically ranges from $200 to $500, depending on the certification level. Renewal fees and continuing education costs apply every two years.

How do I find a supervisor for my clinical hours?
You can find supervisors through TCBAP or by contacting local addiction treatment centers, hospitals, or behavioral health organizations like Texas Health Resources or The Council on Recovery.

Additional Resources for Texas Substance Abuse Counselors

• Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC)
• Texas Certification Board of Addiction Professionals (TCBAP)
• Texas Association of Addiction Professionals (TAAP)
• IC&RC Exam Information
• Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS)

Mental Health and Addiction in Texas

The opioid crisis and rising alcohol dependency in Texas have placed enormous strain on the state’s healthcare system. According to the Texas Department of State Health Services, over 50% of individuals seeking addiction treatment also struggle with co-occurring mental health disorders, such as anxiety or depression (Texas DSHS, 2021). As a certified substance abuse counselor, you will address both addiction and mental health needs, helping clients achieve long-term recovery.

Are you ready to become a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC) or Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) in Texas? Follow the steps in this guide to begin your certification process and make a meaningful impact on those affected by addiction.

For more information or to connect with other professionals, join our forum to share your experiences and gain support from fellow addiction counselors. Join the Forum.

Sources:

1. Texas Department of State Health Services. Opioid and Substance Use Report, 2021. Available at: DSHS Report.