Addictions Counseling A.A.S.

The Addictions Counseling A.A.S. prepares students who are seeking specific knowledge in substance abuse counseling to work with clients in a broad range of treatment settings. Basic counseling and interviewing skills, assessment and diagnosis of substance use and other mental disorders, treatment delivery, ethical practice, and field experience are emphasized.

Overall GPA of 3.0 or better required in Departmental Requirements courses upon degree completion. Grade of B or better required in HUMS 204 and both INTR 103 courses.

Certification for addictions counselors is required by the State of Maryland. The credentialing process requires a combination of a college degree in health or human services, specific coursework in addictions counseling, hours of internship and supervised experience, and passing a state-approved examination. Student should consult with an advisor and the Board of Professional Counselors in Maryland for specific certification requirements.

Individuals seeking to apply for the Maryland Alcohol and Drug Trainee (ADT) status should declare Addictions Counseling A.A.S. as your major. ADT status is a temporary time-limited status and those holding ADT status must be enrolled in a required college addictions program and be supervised by an appropriate individual. ADT is a stepping stone for individuals seeking Maryland certification of CSC-AD, CAC-AD, or licensure in related areas (for example, counseling and social work). Please note that FCC does not issue ADT's, CSC-AD's, or CAC-AD's, but rather, those are issued through Maryland Department of Health, Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists (see links below for application instructions and requirements).

The Addictions Counseling A.A.S. is also designed for those with minimal to no college background and are seeking CSC-AD certification through Maryland.

For specific information regarding ADT status or CSC-AD or CAC-AD, please use the following links:

ADT:  https://health.maryland.gov/bopc/Pages/adt.aspx
CSC-AD:  https://health.maryland.gov/bopc/Pages/cscad.aspx
CAC-AD:  https://health.maryland.gov/bopc/Pages/cacad.aspx

Success in the program is defined by your ability to apply what you’ve learned in real-world scenarios. This program ensures that every student achieves the following core competencies:

• Identify major theories and techniques commonly used in the addictions field.
• Demonstrate proficiency in basic counseling skills such as therapeutic approaches and techniques used with individuals, groups, and families in addictions counseling.
• Formulate a treatment plan for the psychological and behavioral effects of substance use, for persons with substance use disorders and their significant others.
• Design interventions for use with individuals, families, and groups.
• Practice awareness and sensitivity to diverse populations in a variety of settings.
• Recognize skills, competencies, and limitations as a student and professional in the field of addictions.
• Practice appropriate professional behaviors according to ethical codes and legal standards of professional organizations, such as, NAADAC, ACA, and NASW while a student in the program and during required internships.
• Illustrate the twelve core functions of an addictions counselor.
• Summarize the neurophysiological role of substances on the brain and body and the effects on behavior.

Success starts with a solid plan. Your program's course sequence is designed to build your skills step-by-step. By following this plan, you ensure you're meeting all program requirements and staying on track.

Program Pathway