Substance Abuse Counselor Training in Idaho - ID

You can pursue substance abuse counselor training in Idaho at two and four year colleges and universities throughout the state.  In some cases, you can complete coursework online.  Training programs that will qualify you to become an alcohol and drug counselor in Idaho will include a rigorous coursework component covering topics specific to substance abuse counseling.  These topics include theories of counseling, counseling techniques, family counseling, methods of group counseling, patient assessment, treatment plans and case management, pharmacology, the psychology of addiction, the physiological effects of alcohol and drugs, counseling individuals with AIDS and other infectious diseases, ethical issues, serving a culturally diverse population.  For the purposes of certification, which is voluntary but highly recommended in Idaho, you must complete a total of 270 hours of course work.  At least six of those 270 hours must be devoted to professional ethics because substance abuse counselors sometimes face ethical quandaries in the course of treating their clients.

Substance abuse counselor training also includes a hands-on clinical component.  In order to qualify as a certified alcohol and drug counselor in Idaho, you will need to complete a practicum consisting of at least 300 hours of work in substance abuse counseling in a clinical setting under the supervision of a qualified professional.