You want to change your career path and become a certified addiction counselor (CAC), but you aren’t sure if you have what it takes. You may have read multiple job descriptions on popular job boards, but they gave little insight into what the work entails.

At Colorado Counselor Training, we offer all OBH approved and required CAC courses. Our teachers have been working in the field for decades and some hold degrees in social work and community counseling. As a result, we know the necessary traits and characteristics to become an addiction counselor. If you want to learn about the attributes to be successful in this rewarding profession, you’ve come to the right place.

What Does A CAC Do?

The most essential responsibility of a CAC is to help individuals who struggle with substance abuse, as these individuals need a compassionate and understanding professional to help them overcome their addiction and destructive habits.

As a counselor, you will have many responsibilities. In general, you will work with clients on an ongoing basis to help them modify their behavior. Some days you may do one-on-one counseling to identify your client’s triggers and create strategies to overcome relapse, as well as customized treatment plans. Other days, you will lead group therapy sessions or refer clients to support groups.

When the time comes for your client to pursue a career path, they may turn to you to help them find a job or return to their career before addiction derailed their livelihood. As a Colorado addiction counselor, you will become a well-rounded support system.

Traits Of A Certified Addiction Counselor

If you are considering a change in career paths and you aren’t sure if you can transfer your current skills into becoming a CAC, the following are valuable traits for this profession.

  • Good listener
  • Problem-solver
  • Well organized
  • Strong communicator
  • Assertive personality
  • Desire to help others
  • Confidence
  • Respect

You will be working in a fast-paced environment, so it is important to handle stress. This is not a standard 9 to 5 desk job and you will often find yourself working long hours. As a result, it’s important that you know how to prevent job burnout, or the job may become too difficult to handle. Establishing a professional relationship is critical in this role, as you want your clients to trust you enough to open up, but also be respectful of your boundaries.

If you are thinking about making a career change, ask yourself if your current role demands the traits to become a CAC. Even if the job roles are completely different, you may still have the skills to become a drug or addiction counselor.  

A History of Addiction

Another strong candidate for the position is someone who has overcome their own struggles with addiction. If you are currently in recovery, you may want to consider becoming an addiction counselor. People who have had a history of addiction will be able to connect with their clients in ways others may not. Your insight may prove to be more valuable and impactful because you walked in their shoes and know the struggles they face.

However, it is important to note that not everyone in recovery is suitable for this position, as they may find sobriety difficult when surrounded by others who struggle with similar addictions. If you are thinking about this career path, ask yourself if this is right for you and discuss it with your therapist, or members of your support group.

Final Thoughts

Few career paths are as fulfilling as becoming a CAC. It requires a certain level of commitment, as you must undergo several hours of studying, supervising, and training to become licensed. When you finally become a counselor, the work can be stressful and demanding, but in the end, it is always rewarding.

Contact Colorado Counselor Training

At Colorado Counselor Training, our mission is to help you grow and develop as an addiction counselor. We provide effective, affordable, and accessible training that can be completed online or in person. By the end of your course, you will have the necessary skills to interact with and help clients who struggle with addiction and substance abuse. To become a certified addiction counselor in Colorado, contact us today. Call 970.409.4542 for more information.