Become a Substance Abuse Counselor in Maine - ME

According to the Maine Department of Labor and Workforce Development, the number of employed substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors in the state will jump from 658 in 2006 to 902 by 2016, indicating an employment growth rate of 37%. This rise in employment is attributed to professionals retiring or leaving the field, heightened public awareness regarding addiction and effective treatments thereof, and judicial decisions to send drug offenders to substance abuse rehabilitation programs. Those interested in joining this fast growing occupation need to complete education and training that leads to substance abuse counselor certification in Maine. Only substance abuse counselors that are certified, registered, or licensed can legally practice in the state.

In order to obtain licensure as a certified alcohol and drug counselor (CADC) or a licensed alcohol and drug counselor (LADC) professionals will have to complete application eligibility requirements established by the Maine Department of Professional and Financial Regulation Board of Alcohol and Drug Counselors. Licensing qualifications include the completion of post-secondary academic credits, work experience hours, written examination, and application submission. Once an application is approved by the board, a license to practice is issued but must be renewed biannually with the completion of 24-36 hours of continuing education.