Chemical Dependency Counseling Assistant (CDCA)

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After just one course, students can apply for entry-level credentialing through the Ohio Chemical Dependency Professionals Board. Students can work with individuals, families, and communities impacted by substance abuse disorders. Obtaining the CDCA Certification prepares students to work in addictions counseling, providing individual and group treatment interventions under the supervision of a licensed professional. However, this training will also prepare students to provide addiction services related to other jobs in community health and social services.

CDCA Certification is just the beginning

After completion, students may continue their education to obtain a chemical dependency licensure. With a completed associate degree and 2000 work hours in the field of substance use disorders, and additional requirements students may apply for LCDC II licensure. Full information on the credentialing requirements are available on the Ohio Chemical Dependency Professionals Board website at www.ocdp.ohio.gov.

Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant Preliminary (Phase I)

Students who complete HMSV 1150 – Introduction to Chemical Dependency meet all of the requirements to receive the CDCA Preliminary Certification. This course is available hybrid/online and can be completed in one semester. Check NCSC’s course schedule for availability.

HMSV 1150 - Introduction to Chemical Dependency

This course provides an introduction into the field of chemical dependency counseling. This course meets all requirements necessary to apply for the Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant (CDCA) phase I. This course looks at the essentials of chemical dependency counseling, including the characteristic of a counselor, ethic and legal issues, the process of becoming a counselor, theories of addiction, counseling procedures and strategies, group work, assessment and diagnosis, and treatment planning.

Credit Hours: 3 Lecture Hours: 3

Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant Renewable (Phase II)

Students who complete HMSV 2150 – Substance Abuse and Treatment meet all of the requirements to receive the CDCA Renewable Certification. This course is available hybrid/online and can be completed in one semester. Check NCSC’s course schedule for availability.

HMSV 2150 - Substance Abuse & Treatment

This course examines the biological, psychological, and societal forces that encourage the use, misuse, abuse and addiction to drugs. Specific drug classifications and the effect of these drugs on the individual will be explored. Theories and models of addition and treatment will be explored as will DSM5 criteria. Assessments used in the field will be introduced. The need for generalist training in the field of Human Services will be emphasized.

Credit Hours: 3 Lecture Hours: 3 Required Prerequisite Course: Take HMSV 1150