Addiction Counselor Education

The Clark College Addiction Counselor Education Department (ACED) program offers an AAS, for students pursuing the Chemical Dependency Professional (CDP) certification, an AA for students wishing to transfer to a state college or university and a Certificate of Proficiency for students who already possess a degree and plan to sit for the CDP state exam. The ACED program is certified by the National Association of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC), as well as the National Addiction Studies Accreditation Commission (NASAC).

Addiction counselors work with families and individuals of all ages who are experiencing problems with addictive behaviors. Counselors may work as members of treatment teams in inpatient or outpatient settings, with schools, or in businesses. They provide group, individual, and couples therapy as well as assessments and interventions. Addiction counselors also work as liaisons for their clients to judicial systems, schools, state services, and communities. Counselors may serve as educators in their communities, acquainting community members with treatment options and prevention strategies for the community. Please contact the Addiction Counselor Education Department (ACED) program advisor for current Washington state certification requirements.

Students must complete all specifically listed courses and Major Area Requirements with a minimum grade of "C" or better in order to successfully complete the program and be awarded the award.

Refer to the Degree & Certificate Requirements Section of the Clark College Catalog to identify the courses needed to satisfy the General Education Requirements.