Full Careers

Question about pursuing a career in addiction counseling.?

I'd like to pursue a career in addiction counseling in private practice. I intend to continue working in my current field (in a very different field) to support myself until I meet requirements that would allow me to legally practice in New York State. What are the minimum education requirements required to practice addiction counseling privately? What alternatives to graduate degree programs are there that meet these minimum education requirements upon completion? I appreciate your help with this. This would be a major career change for me, but I believe this is my true calling.

Public Comments

1. I don't know about the accedemics but I just want to say good for you. I too am interested in helping addicts. I wish I could help them all. I think it takes a special kind of person to see the person behind the addiction rather than just the addict. I hope that your dreams come true.
2. There are some state run programs for certification in addiction counseling, but most require at least a two year internship in the field together with the state's educational program. Most large treatment center's will only emply those who hold a master's degree in psychology or social work before employing an individual as an drug and alcohol counselor.