Wisconsin

Salaries for substance abuse counselors in Wisconsin are estimated to be about 11% lower than the national average. Still, the educational requirements for getting certified are lower than in many other states. You can find the requirements to become a Substance Abuse Counselor in training, a Substance Abuse Counselor, and a Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor here. Wisconsin also has a clinical supervisor certification. The requirements for certification are listed here.

If you’re considering a career in substance abuse counseling in Wisconsin, you’re entering a field vital to many communities’ well-being. Wisconsin has faced its share of challenges with substance abuse, particularly with opioid and alcohol-related issues. To make a difference in this field, gaining certification as a substance abuse counselor can open up many opportunities. This guide will provide a step-by-step process on becoming certified, the benefits of certification, job opportunities, salary expectations, and frequently asked questions to help you get started.

Overview of Certification in Wisconsin

The primary certifying body for substance abuse counselors in Wisconsin is the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS). Certification is available at different levels, depending on your education and experience, including the Substance Abuse Counselor-in-Training (SAC-IT), Substance Abuse Counselor (SAC), and Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC).

Certification Process in Wisconsin

Step 1: Educational Requirements

To become a Substance Abuse Counselor (SAC) or Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC), the following educational requirements must be met:

• SAC-IT: A minimum of a high school diploma or GED is required to begin as a counselor-in-training.
• SAC: An associate’s degree in a related field is typically required.
• CSAC: A bachelor’s degree or higher in a field such as psychology, counseling, or social work is required.

Step 2: Supervised Clinical Experience

Practical, supervised experience is essential to becoming certified. Wisconsin has strict requirements for clinical hours:

• For SAC certification, 3,000 to 4,000 hours of supervised clinical experience are generally required.
• CSAC certification typically requires more supervised hours, depending on your degree level.

Step 3: Certification Exam

You must pass the National Association for Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC) exam or the International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC) exam to qualify for certification. Wisconsin also requires candidates to pass an open-book state jurisprudence exam.

• Study Materials: Study guides and practice tests are available from both NAADAC and IC&RC to help candidates prepare for the certification exam.

Step 4: Application and Fees

Submit your application through the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS). The application will require:

• Transcripts
• Proof of supervised experience
• Exam scores
• Payment of application fees

Step 5: Certification Renewal

Once certified, you must renew your certification every two years by completing continuing education (CEU) requirements, including ethics training.

Employment Opportunities and Salary Expectations

Substance abuse counselors are in high demand in Wisconsin due to the state’s growing focus on mental health and addiction services. The average salary for a certified substance abuse counselor in Wisconsin is between $42,000 to $50,000 annually, depending on your certification level and location.

Common Job Titles:

• Substance Abuse Counselor (SAC)
• Clinical Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC)
• Certified Addiction Technician
• Program Coordinator for Substance Abuse Services
• Recovery Specialist

Agencies Hiring in Wisconsin:

1. Aurora Behavioral Health Center
   • Website: Aurora Health
   • Phone: (414) 647-5000
   • Email: info@aurora.org
2. Rogers Behavioral Health
   • Website: Rogers Behavioral Health
   • Phone: (800) 767-4411
   • Email: info@rogersbh.org
3. Journey Mental Health Center
   • Website: Journey Mental Health
   • Phone: (608) 280-2700
   • Email: info@journeymhc.org
4. Tellurian UCAN, Inc.
   • Website: Tellurian UCAN
   • Phone: (608) 222-7311
   • Email: info@tellurian.org
5. Hope Haven-Rebos United, Inc.
   • Website: Hope Haven
   • Phone: (608) 251-8881
   • Email: info@hopehavenhelps.org

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does becoming a certified substance abuse counselor in Wisconsin take?

• Depending on your education level and experience, it can take 2 to 4 years to meet the educational and clinical requirements for certification.

2. Can I get certified in Wisconsin if I’m already certified in another state?

• Yes, Wisconsin participates in IC&RC reciprocity, which allows professionals from other states to transfer their certification, provided they meet Wisconsin’s requirements.

3. What are the costs associated with certification?

• The fees for certification exams range from $150 to $200. Additional costs include application fees to the Wisconsin DSPS, which range from $75 to $150.

4. How often do I need to renew my certification?

• Certification must be renewed every two years, and you are required to complete continuing education units (CEUs) during each renewal period, including ethics training.

5. What kind of jobs can I get with a substance abuse counseling certification in Wisconsin?

• You can work in outpatient clinics, residential treatment facilities, hospitals, correctional facilities, and community health centers with a certification.

Key Resources for Counselors in Wisconsin

• Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS)
  • Website: DSPS Wisconsin
  • Phone: (608) 266-2112
  • Email: dsps@wi.gov
• IC&RC Certification
  • Website: IC&RC
• NAADAC Certification
  • Website: NAADAC

Conclusion

Getting certified as a substance abuse counselor in Wisconsin allows you to make a significant impact in your community. With a range of certifications and a growing demand for counselors, you can look forward to a rewarding career. Start your certification journey today by contacting the Wisconsin DSPS for more information on requirements, exams, and job opportunities.

Call to Action

If you’re ready to begin your career as a certified substance abuse counselor, visit the Wisconsin DSPS website for more information. Feel free to introduce yourself and join our community forum, where you can ask questions, share experiences, and connect with others in the field. Join the Forum.