Utah

Utah’s state site lists three license types.

• Licensed Substance Abuse Counselor
• Certified Substance Abuse Counselor
• Certified Substance Abuse Counselor-Intern

Utah allows testing both through IC&RC and NAADAC

Average Salaries

Welcome to the Utah Substance Abuse Counselor Certification Guide, your comprehensive resource for navigating the certification process in Utah. With a growing need for qualified addiction counselors due to the state’s battle against opioid abuse and alcohol dependency, the demand for certified professionals is increasing. Whether you’re just starting your journey or advancing your career, this guide will provide the necessary steps to achieve certification and explore employment opportunities in Utah.

Why Become Certified in Utah?

Utah faces significant substance abuse challenges, with opioid overdose rates among the highest in the U.S. More than 400 opioid-related deaths have been reported in recent years (Utah Department of Health, 2021). Alcohol and methamphetamine use are also prevalent, creating a demand for well-trained addiction counselors who can provide effective treatment and support.

Certified addiction counselors in Utah have a critical role in helping individuals and families recover from substance abuse. Certification opens up various career paths, from clinical settings to private practices, rehabilitation centers, and community health organizations.

Utah Certification Requirements

The Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL) regulates substance abuse counselor certification in Utah. The two main certifications are the Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) and the Licensed Substance Abuse Counselor (LSAC), both requiring education, clinical experience, and passing an exam.

Educational Requirements

The educational requirements vary depending on the certification level:

• Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC): Requires a high school diploma or GED and 270 hours of addiction counseling education. Coursework must cover essential topics, including:
  • Counseling techniques
  • Treatment planning
  • Ethics
  • Cultural competence
  • Client assessment
• Licensed Substance Abuse Counselor (LSAC): Requires an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in a behavioral science field, such as psychology, social work, or addiction studies, plus 300 hours of specialized addiction counseling coursework.

Tip:

Schools like Utah Valley University and Weber State University offer degree programs and coursework that meet the educational requirements for certification.

Experience Requirements

Experience requirements for certification are as follows:

• CSAC: Requires 4,000 hours of supervised clinical experience in addiction counseling. Candidates with an associate’s or bachelor’s degree may qualify for reduced hours.
• LSAC: Requires 2,000 hours of supervised clinical experience in substance abuse counseling, with an emphasis on client interaction, group therapy, and treatment planning.

Practical Advice:

Supervised experience can be completed at treatment centers such as Odyssey House Utah, First Step House, and LDS Family Services.

Certification Exams

After meeting the education and experience requirements, candidates must pass the IC&RC Alcohol and Drug Counselor (ADC) Exam. This exam evaluates the candidate’s knowledge in addiction counseling, ethics, client assessment, and treatment planning.

Study Tips:

Candidates can access IC&RC-approved study guides and practice exams. The Utah Association of Addiction Professionals (UAAP) offers workshops and exam preparation resources to help you succeed.

Application Process

Once you’ve completed your education, supervised experience, and passed the exam, you can apply for certification through the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL).

Steps to Apply:

1. Complete the Application: Download the application from the DOPL website.
2. Submit Required Documentation: This includes:
   • Official transcripts and certificates
   • Proof of supervised clinical hours
   • Exam results
3. Pay the Application Fee: Fees typically range from $150 to $250, depending on the certification level.
4. Submit the Application: Applications can be submitted online or by mail. Be sure to retain copies of all submitted documents.

Employment Opportunities in Utah

Job Titles and Average Salaries

Substance abuse counselors in Utah can pursue various job titles depending on their certification level and experience. Here are some typical roles and their estimated salaries in Utah:

1. Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC)
   • Average Salary: $40,000 – $45,000 annually
   • Job Roles: Substance abuse counselor at outpatient treatment centers, rehab facilities, or community health organizations.
2. Licensed Substance Abuse Counselor (LSAC)
   • Average Salary: $50,000 – $60,000 annually
   • Job Roles: Licensed counselor at hospitals, residential rehab centers, or private practice. LSACs often work with clients dealing with more severe substance abuse cases or co-occurring mental health disorders.
3. Clinical Supervisor (for LSACs with experience)
   • Average Salary: $65,000 – $80,000 annually
   • Job Roles: Clinical supervisor overseeing teams of addiction counselors at rehab facilities or hospitals.
4. Case Manager (substance abuse focus)
   • Average Salary: $45,000 – $55,000 annually
   • Job Roles: Working with clients to coordinate services and treatment plans at social service agencies, rehab centers, or community health clinics.
5. Addiction Recovery Program Coordinator
   • Average Salary: $55,000 – $65,000 annually
   • Job Roles: Leading treatment programs at non-profits, recovery centers, or state-run programs.

Job Outlook:

Substance abuse counselors in Utah are in demand due to the ongoing opioid crisis and rising rates of alcohol and methamphetamine addiction. Employment opportunities are expected to grow by 25% over the next decade, making this a stable and rewarding career path.

Renewal and Continuing Education

To maintain certification, addiction counselors must renew their credentials every two years.

• CSAC and LSAC Renewal: Requires 40 hours of continuing education (CEUs) every two years, including 6 hours in ethics training. These CEUs must cover addiction treatment advancements, clinical supervision, and co-occurring disorders.

Continuing education is offered through local organizations such as UAAP, DOPL and universities like Utah Valley University and Weber State University.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How long does becoming a certified substance abuse counselor in Utah take?
The process varies depending on education. Those with a high school diploma typically take 2 to 4 years to accumulate the required hours and pass the exam. Those with a bachelor’s degree may take 1 to 2 years.

Can I complete my certification education online?
Many accredited programs offer online courses that meet Utah’s educational requirements. However, supervised clinical experience must be completed in person.

Is Utah certification transferable to other states?
Utah certifications are transferable to other states participating in IC&RC reciprocity agreements. Be sure to check the specific requirements for the state you are moving to.

What are the fees for certification in Utah?
The total cost, including exam and application fees, typically ranges from $200 to $500. Renewal fees apply every two years.

How do I find a supervisor for my clinical hours?
You can find supervisors through DOPL or by contacting addiction treatment centers such as Odyssey House Utah or House of Hope.

Additional Resources for Utah Substance Abuse Counselors

• Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL)
• Utah Association of Addiction Professionals (UAAP)
• IC&RC Exam Information
• Utah Department of Health Substance Use Resources

Mental Health and Addiction in Utah

Addiction and mental health challenges often go hand-in-hand. In Utah, more than 60% of individuals seeking substance abuse treatment also struggle with co-occurring mental health issues, such as depression or anxiety (Utah Department of Health, 2021). Certified counselors play an essential role in addressing both addiction and mental health needs to provide comprehensive recovery plans.

Are you ready to become a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) or Licensed Substance Abuse Counselor (LSAC) in Utah? Follow the steps outlined in this guide to begin your certification process and start positively impacting your community.

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

Sources:

1. Utah Department of Health. Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health Report, 2021. Available at: Utah DOH Report.