Basic Chemical Dependency Counselor

The Basic Chemical Dependency Counselor Level I Certificate will provide students an opportunity to gain entry-level skills in fields such as psychiatry, psychology, human services, social work, substance use, family services, criminal justice, education, and/or working in environments such as hospitals, clinics, shelters, crisis centers, and community outreach. The certificate trains students in areas of effective communication, ethical protocol, conducting patient interviews, patient observations, record keeping, problem-solving strategies, treatment plan implementation, the development of cultural sensitivity, and an awareness of diverse community service populations. Students may be required to attend class face-to-face when learning counseling skills applications. The certificate provides a foundation of knowledge and skills pertinent to the substance use counseling field. Certificate completers will be required to participate in the state-mandated 300 hour supervised field experience (Practicum). Certificate completers will be eligible to apply with the state of Texas to become a Chemical Dependency Counselor Intern (CDC-I). The CDC Intern is permitted to begin working in entry-level positions in the field of substance abuse counseling.