Alcohol & Drug Counselor (ADC) 

To be eligible for reciprocity to other IC&RC jurisdictions, credentials obtained through Member Boards must meet the following IC&RC minimum standards:

Experience

6000 hours of supervised work experience specific to the ADC domains. An associate’s degree in behavioral science may substitute for 1000 hours; a bachelor’s degree in behavioral science may substitute for 2000 hours; a master’s degree in behavioral science may substitute for 4000 hours.

Education

270 hours specific to the domains. Six hours must be specific to counselor ethics.

Supervision

300 hours specific to the domains, which include the 12 core functions and TAP 21 Competencies with a minimum of ten hours in each core function area.

Examination

Applicants must pass the IC&RC ADC Examination.

Code of Ethics

Applicants must sign a code of ethics statement or affirmation statement.

Recertification

40 hours of continuing education earned every two years.

IC&RC credentials can only be obtained by meeting the requirements of the local Member Board where you live or work at least 51 percent of the time. The application process and specific requirements varies for each jurisdiction, so professionals seeking credentialing must contact the local board.

ADC Domains

1. Clinical Evaluation
2. Treatment Planning
3. Referral
4. Service Coordination
5. Counseling
6. Client, Family & Community Education
7. Documentation
8. Professional & Ethical Responsibilities

TAP 21 Competencies & the 12 Core Functions are contained within the domains.

Candidate Guide

As a service to the profession, IC&RC provides a Counselor (ADC) Candidate Guide for students preparing for examinations and their work in the field. IC&RC offers this resource free of charge and updates the publications on an ongoing basis.

ADC Resources

In April 2012, IC&RC released a white paper, entitled "Assuring Public Safety in the Delivery of Substance Abuse Treatment Services: An IC&RC Position Paper on Alcohol & Drug Counselor (ADC) Credentialing."

There is also a brochure released in September 2012, "Alcohol & Drug Counselor: A Credential That Changes Lives & Your Career."

 
 

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