Online Continuing Education For Addiction Counselors Increases Their Effectiveness

By Leticia Jensen


Learning takes place in the classroom over a number of years to gain a degree. Online continuing education for addiction counselors is required each year after the degrees are awarded. Using the Internet saves time and money.

Addiction counseling is a fast growing profession. The therapist aids in recovery and the maintenance of that recovery. Post graduation courses prepare the counselor to support each client.

A bachelors degree only lays the groundwork for someone who wants to treat those with addictive behavior. There is the masters degree in addictive counseling to advance the progress of the therapist. By earning it online the student will save time.

The coursework teaches the process of diagnosing the addict and devising the best way to counsel him or her. There are many approaches. It seems that there are accepted and successful procedures that may prevent addiction as well as intervene in helping the addict.

Eventually the student will be prepared to work as a general counselor for addicts, behaviorist, case manager or detoxification specialist. A position as a residential or vocational counselor are other possibilities. The graduate may eventually work in a university, an institution or a mental health hospital.

The counselor who holds a masters degree can work online to earn a doctorate. Addiction therapists are required at all levels. Someone with a Ph. D. Will be able to select from continuing educative courses in mental health or addiction to a variety of substances and activities. Each will add another layer of knowledge.

All mental health practitioners are required to be licensed by the state before practicing their profession. After a license is granted, annual education must be completed. Each state sets the requirements as to licensing and hours of continuing education that are needed.

It can be more expensive to earn those credits on campus. Make certain the classes are taken at an accredited school, whether in person or online. Saving time working on the Internet will allow you to maintain a job and take classes during the same time period.

After the certification is completed, it confirms the ability of a counselor to address the disorders of an addict. Accessibility on the Internet makes the requirements easier to fulfill. Licensing and certification are easier to attain.

It takes ten hours to earn each unit. The school must be accredited or the units will not be acceptable. Each state may require a different number of units and have its own licensing process.

The association that regulates this has been in existence since 1968. The goal of the American National Standards Institute works to assure health of consumers. IACET communicates standards to help educative programs meet the proper criteria for accreditation.

The process of attaining the CPUs, whether accomplished online or on campus, assures the practitioner of keeping abreast with all new developments. It is an annual procedure. The certificate is usually framed for display in the practitioners office.

A conference or symposium offers additional dissemination of information. Networking with other professionals advances the careers of all. Things beyond earning CPUs can be accomplished.

Another therapist may specialize in a facet of the profession you are unfamiliar with. Exchanging business cards is a good way to network. Sometime in the future you may be able to help each other professionally.




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