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Gain qualifications for one of the most-in demand roles in mental health.

Substance abuse counselor is one of the fastest growing occupations in the country. Now, more than ever, the world needs qualified, compassionate professionals to serve people experiencing one of the nation’s most harmful disorders.  

John Carroll University’s accelerated, online graduate certificate program will give you the skills, knowledge, and academic requirements to become eligible for certification as a licensed chemical dependency counselor. 

This fast-paced program is also suitable for those working in law enforcement, probation, social work, human resources, nursing, or related fields.

Prepare for Licensure

Depending on your prior academic work, this program will prepare you for eligibility as a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC II, III) or a Licensed Independent Chemical Dependency Counselor (LICDC).

Build Your Network

Make connections with peers and practitioners. In our cohort-based program, you’ll engage with classmates from diverse professional backgrounds and learn from practicing counselors right here in the Cleveland area.

Gain Experience

Pursue coveted field placements through JCU’s strong connections with agencies and private practices throughout the region.

Program Overview & Outcomes


Put your passion for helping others to work. Whether you’re looking to earn an additional licensure or want to expand your knowledge, this program will prepare you to do the following for those experiencing substance use disorders: 

  • Assess, then develop, a treatment plan 
  • Facilitate group interventions 
  • Evaluate support systems
  • Plan appropriate follow-up and continuing care

 

Curriculum: What You Will Learn

Complete your curriculum in just eight months through our accelerated online cohort format. Featuring a blend of synchronous and asynchronous coursework in 7.5-week and full-term sessions, classes are taught by dually licensed counselors bringing deep clinical expertise directly to the classroom.

*CG 5518 is only required for students who need field experience in substance use disorders counseling.

  • Fall Term

    Addiction Knowledge

    3 Credits

    CG5514

    Substances of abuse and their effects on the processes of body and brain; how to screen and assess for substance use disorder, including withdrawal. Includes information on the current medical and pharmacological resources used in the treatment of substance use disorders, as well as the biopsychosocial, cultural, and spiritual factors related to addiction.

    Treatment Knowledge for Chemical Dependency and Addictive Disorders

    3 Credits

    CG5515

    This course covers the end-to-end clinical process for treating addiction. Key topics include comprehensive assessments for co-occurring disorders, level-of-care determination, evidence-based treatment planning, and long-term relapse prevention.

    Service Coordination and Documentation for Chemical Dependency

    3 Credits

    CG5516

    This course examines foundational theories and techniques for individual, group, and family counseling in the treatment of chemical dependency and addictive disorders. Key topics include managing group dynamics, engaging family systems in recovery, and maintaining professional ethical standards across all counseling modalities.

  • Spring Term

    Group and Individual Counseling for Chemical Dependency and Addictive Disorders

    3 Credits

    CG5517

    Develop counseling strategies for addiction recovery while mastering group dynamics and ethical practices that empower clients and families.

    Family and Relationship Dynamics in Counseling

    3 Credits

    CG5556

    This course in relationship and family counseling involves study in the structure, rules, roles, forms of communication, and other aspects of interpersonal dynamics. Ways of problem solving and negotiating will be studied.

    Field Experience in Chemical Dependency and Addictive Disorders

    3 Credits

    CG5518

    Placement in the community under the supervision of a licensed chemical dependency counselor. The course requires completion of a minimum of 220 hours and field work is coupled with regular class meetings.

Admission & Aid

This graduate certificate program is open to students with a bachelor’s or master’s degree from an accredited institution. 

For applicants without a master’s degree, a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.75 is required. 

The following documents or steps are required to complete your application for admission: 

  • Online application
  • Official transcripts for highest degree earned
  • One letter of recommendation 
  • Statement of purpose
  • Interview with the program coordinator

Tuition for this program is charged by the credit hour. Employee financial assistance is accepted, and certificate students may be eligible for federal student loans. Learn more about cost and aid. 

After JCU: Substance Abuse Disorder Careers

With their graduate certificate, many participants pursue additional licensure. Others may use their knowledge to enhance their experience in related fields, such as in social services, law enforcement, or advocacy.

Akron Childrens
Anchor Counseling
Moore Counseling
Cornerstone Beahvioral
Recovery Resources

Next Steps

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  • Application deadline reminders
  • Personal follow-up from a JCU admission counselor
  • Invitations to info sessions and program events
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