Substance Abuse Counselor Training in Ohio - OH

The first step to becoming a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC II) in the state of Ohio is receiving the proper education. Substance abuse counselor training in Ohio consists of getting at least an associate degree in one of the behavioral sciences. These would include psychology, sociology, or social work. In lieu of that degree, one may hold a bachelor degree in any field. Two hundred and seventy (270) hours of training must be in specific chemical dependency areas, as follows: 24 hours in theories of addiction; 24 hours in counseling procedures and strategies; 18 hours in group process and techniques; 24 hours in assessment and diagnosis of addiction; 24 hours in relationship counseling; 18 hours in pharmacology; 12 hours in prevention strategies; 18 hours in treatment planning; 12 hours in legal and ethical issues; with the remaining 96 hours distributed throughout these areas as desired.

Besides coursework, Ohio also mandates practical experience, or a supervised practicum, of 330 hours. This is to be completed in a real-world setting, giving you experience in the core functions of the position. This practicum must cover the following: 10 hours of screening, 10 hours of intake, 10 hours orientation, 10 hours assessment, 25 hours treatment planning, 30 hours individual counseling, 30 hours group counseling, 20 hours family counseling, 15 hours case management, 10 hours crisis intervention, 10 hours client education, 10 hours referral, 20 hours reports and record keeping, 10 hours consultation with other professionals, and the remaining 110 hours may be distributed among the functions as desired.