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Substance Use Disorders and Behavioral Addictions Certificate

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If you're preparing for a career in addiction counseling or looking to deepen your understanding of substance use and behavioral addictions, this certificate program offers the specialized training you need to make a meaningful impact. Designed for both undergraduate and graduate students, the Substance Use Disorders and Behavioral Addictions Certificate provides a focused path to develop essential counseling skills for clinical and community settings.

This 15-credit hour program, offered through the School of Health Sciences, combines rigorous coursework with real-world experience. You’ll complete a 500-hour internship tailored to your academic discipline, giving you hands-on practice in the field. Courses cover topics like assessment, treatment planning, evidence-based interventions, and ethical issues in addiction services. With accreditation from the Illinois Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Professional Certification Association, Inc. (IAODAPCA), the curriculum also fulfills academic requirements for the Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) credential, helping you take the next step toward licensure and professional practice.

For More information

To apply for the certificate, email Yancy Cruz-Virella.

Accreditation

The Substance Use Disorders and Behavioral Addiction Certificate Program is accredited by the Illinois Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Certification Association, Inc. (IAODAPCA), for the purpose of professional certification in Illinois.

Illinois Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Certification Association, Inc.Logo401 E Sangamon Ave
Springfield, IL 62702
217-698-8110

Certificate Requirements

Students must complete 21 credits of required coursework, including an academic discipline-based 500-hour internship (8 credits)*. Required didactic courses include:

CARE 461      Introduction to Substance Use Disorders

CARE 471      Treatment of Substance Use Disorders

CARE 558      Special Populations and Substance Use Disorders

CARE 566      Advanced Treatment

CARE 550 Pre practicum

One 3-4 credit approved elective- Counseling related (i.e., case management, counseling skills, ethics), and

Internship

Internship sites are acceptable if a) the degree program is clinically focused and b) the CARE CADC Program Coordinator approves the site. Illinois Certification Board (ICB) requirements for internships include the presence of a qualified supervisor and face-to-face Counseling with individuals seeking treatment for substance abuse issues.