There are many types of addiction counselors. They all have different levels of education and courses required. The most important thing to remember is that addiction counseling is a rewarding career.
A licensed addiction counselor is someone who has gone through the process of becoming licensed by the state to work with addicts and alcoholics. The difference between a LAC counselor and a CAS or CAT counselor is that this person will have advanced education in addiction counseling, including principles of addiction treatment, pharmacology I, infectious diseases in addiction treatment, and more.
A licensed addiction counselor course includes counseling addiction course, theory courses in addiction counseling, practicum, and internship with addiction counseling.
A licensed addiction counselor job involves:
• Supervision of counselors
• Running groups for addicts and alcoholics
• Assessment of clients who are suffering from substance use disorders or behavioral addictions