Make a difference in lives: Become a certified alcohol and drug counselor
Clackamas Community College's Alcohol and Drug Counseling Career Pathway Certificate equips you to launch a fulfilling career helping individuals overcome addiction and heal. This program prepares you for the Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor I (CADC I) exam and provides the foundation for a rewarding career in addiction treatment.
This program is ideal for those seeking to enter the field of addiction counseling or looking to advance their careers in human services.
Read to make a change?
Visit CCC’s Catalog to learn more about the CADC I certificate, cooperative work experience and the Mental Health and Addiction Certification Board of Oregon (MHACBO).
Required classes for the Alcohol and Drug Counselor Career Pathway Certificate
Begin your career in addiction counseling to help those in need
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 10% growth in substance abuse, behavioral disorder and mental health counselors between 2020 and 2030. This growth is due to several factors, including:
- Increasing awareness of mental health and substance abuse issues.
- An aging population that is more likely to need mental health and substance abuse services.
- Expansion of health insurance coverage, which has made mental health and substance abuse services more affordable.
For more information on career opportunities for this program, view the course catalog.
Change lives and communities by gaining the skills needed to be a successful alcohol and drug counselor
Upon successful completion of the program, you will be able to:
- Master the art of active listening: Conduct interviews that empower clients to share their experiences authentically, fostering trust and understanding.
- Uphold the highest ethical standards: Always prioritize client well-being, confidentiality and respect while adhering to professional guidelines and principles.
- Become a keen observer: Develop expertise in identifying the signs and symptoms associated with substance use disorders for accurate assessment and diagnosis.
- Craft personalized recovery paths: Collaborate with clients to create tailored treatment plans that address their specific needs and goals, promoting meaningful change.
- Champion your clients' success: Advocate for their rights and connect them with essential resources, empowering them to build a fulfilling life beyond substance use.
Investing in your future
Clackamas Community College offers some of the lowest tuition rates in the Portland metro area. To begin building the cost for your program, you can start with the base estimate below.
This estimate includes the cost of tuition and the general fees applied per class and per academic term. This estimate does not include additional fees required for many courses or the cost of course materials. Contact the program to learn more about additional costs that may apply.
You can also find more information about the costs of attending CCC on the Tuition and Fees page.
Get help paying for college
Scholarships and grants (free money!) are available for students in this program. For help with financial aid and scholarships, contact the Financial Aid Resource Lab.