Credentialed Alcoholism & Substance Abuse Counselor
Credentialed Alcoholism & Substance Abuse Counselors (CASACs) provide clinical care and counseling for substance use disorders (SUD) in individual and group settings. They work in outpatient centers, treatment facilities, mental health centers, and more.
Overview
Credentialed Alcoholism & Substance Abuse Counselors (CASACs) are highly trained professionals who play a vital role in supporting individuals and families affected by substance use disorders (SUDs). They’re at the forefront of helping people rebuild their lives and repair important connections that may have been damaged by addiction.
CASACs provide a wide range of direct clinical services focused on substance use disorder counseling and recovery. Their work begins with conducting thorough SUD assessments to understand each client’s unique needs and situation. They use specialized tools and interviews to identify patterns of substance use and any related issues, such as mental health concerns or family stressors. CASACs then develop personalized treatment plans, which may include individual counseling, group therapy, and family support sessions.
A key part of a CASAC’s job is intervention—helping clients recognize the impact of substance use and motivating them to seek help. CASACs also make referrals to other treatment providers or community resources when clients need more intensive care or additional support. They follow up regularly to ensure clients are participating in recommended services and progressing in their recovery journey.
In additional to counseling, CASACs often lead group sessions focused on relapse prevention, coping strategies, and building healthy life skills. They may also provide outreach through home visits or community programs to engage clients who might not otherwise seek help. CASACs work closely with interdisciplinary teams, participating in meetings and conferences to coordinate care and review progress for individuals and families.
Work Environment
Credentialed Alcoholism & Substance Abuse Counselors (CASACs) work in a variety of settings, reflecting the diverse needs of the communities they serve. You might find CASACs in outpatient care centers, individual and family service agencies, residential treatment facilities, mental health centers, and community health centers. Some CASACs work in correctional facilities like jails or prisons.
Demand
The need for CASACs is expected to increase 14% between 2022 and 2032.
Salary
The median salary range, as stated by the New York State Department of Labor, for the Capital Region, Central New York, and the Finger Lakes is $52,406 – $59,327.
Demand
+18%
Avg Salary
$55,866
Education Requirements
- Document a minimum of 6,000 hours of supervised work experience in an approved setting (must include practice specific to SUD assessment, intervention, referral, and SUD counseling in both individual and group settings). An approved work setting means it is operated by OASAS and/or it holds a valid OASAS operating certificate.
- Work experience must include a minimum of 300 hours of supervised practical training in core competencies. Each of the 12 Core Functions must have been performed for a minimum of 10 hours (screening, intake, counseling, case management, orientation, assessment & intervention, crisis intervention, reporting & record keeping, referral, treatment planning, service recipient education, and consultation with other professionals).
- Complete a minimum of 350 clock hours and mandatory one-time training requirements.
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