Post-Master of Science in Counseling: Addiction Counseling Certificate

Overview

Provide Compassionate Addiction Counseling and Care

As communities across the nation grapple with the devastating effects of substance use disorders and addiction, behavioral health professionals will be increasingly called upon to deliver effective treatment interventions. Expand and strengthen your practice with the Post-Master of Science in Counseling: Addiction Counseling Certificate, an educational foundation in Christian values, counseling practices and addiction science provided by Grand Canyon University.

The certificate in addiction counseling program provides broad understanding of the processes, effects and foundations of substance use disorders. You will also gain the knowledge and skills necessary to integrate Christian principles with your service to those struggling with addiction.

While this post-master’s certificate in addiction counseling may lead to certain certifications, it is not intended to lead to licensure. Apply the acquired knowledge within your licensed scope of practice, distinguishing yourself among fellow professionals and broadening your organization’s approach to care.

To enroll in this program, you must possess a master's degree or doctorate in counseling, substance abuse counseling, clinical or counseling psychology, marriage and family therapy, behavioral health, social work, human development, nursing or psychiatry medicine.

Degree Outcomes

Apply Addiction Expertise to Individual and Family Therapy

Upon completing the certificate in addiction counseling, you will possess specialized education in substance use and addictive disorders. This includes training in co-dependencies, adolescent and family health, chemical processes and risk management which will enhance your mental or behavioral health practice.

Utilize your understanding of theories and models of treatment, signs and symptoms of dependency, prevention techniques and drug classifications to provide holistic care for individuals facing substance dependency. Become a key resource for clients, colleagues and the community as an extension of your counseling practice.

What You Will Learn

Learn to Analyze and Address Substance Use Disorders

This post-graduate counselor certificate includes coursework in the following areas:

• Current DSM and resources for professional counseling
• Stages, processes and effects of addiction
• Evaluating the presence and severity of co-occurring disorders
• Family roles and impact of substance use disorders
• Adolescent screening, treatment and counseling techniques

Career Outcomes

Impact the Lives of Individuals, Youth and Families

Students who earn a certificate in addiction counseling are prepared to pursue a career as a substance abuse counselor, behavioral health counselor or mental health counselor. Graduates will be equipped to flourish in counseling or therapist roles within outpatient care centers, psychiatric and substance abuse hospitals and residential facilities for individuals facing, mental health disorders, substance use disorders or addiction.

Channel your knowledge of treatment models and resources to recommend appropriate intervention and strategies. Recognize signs, symptoms and patterns that are unique to adolescents. Deliver strong advocacy, intervention, care and compassion for individuals fighting to reclaim their quality of life.