TRAINING
Where can I find training opportunities?
Click on the Training & Events link in the left column of this website.
BECOMING A COUNSELOR
What is a Substance Abuse Counselor?
Substance abuse and behavioral disorder counselors help people who have problems with alcohol, drugs, gambling, and eating disorders. They counsel individuals to help them to identify behaviors and problems related to their addiction. Counseling can be done on an individual basis, but is frequently done in a group setting and can include crisis counseling, daily or weekly counseling, or drop-in counseling supports.
Counselors are trained to assist in developing personalized recovery programs that help to establish healthy behaviors and provide coping strategies. Often, these counselors also will work with family members who are affected by the addictions of their loved ones. Some counselors conduct programs and community outreach aimed at preventing addiction and educating the public. Counselors must be able to recognize how addiction affects the entire person and those around him or her.
What are the requirements for becoming a Substance Abuse Counselor?
Each state has eligibility and education requirements that must be met. This is often directly related to certification or licensure requirements. See the link below for information on your state:
http://www.attcnetwork.org/getCertified.asp
Virginia 804-367-4610 - www.dhp.virginia.gov
Kentucky 502-564-3296 ext. 222 - http://lpc.ky.gov/
West Virginia 304-768-2942 - www.wvcbapp.org
Tennessee 615-532-3202 - http://health.state.tn.us/boards/PC_MFT&CPT/
What is certification?
Certification is a regulatory function of states that insures providers have met the minimum requirements before practicing their trade.
Are there different types of certification?
Yes. There are national and state certifications and licenses. These vary, state to state, and you must check what your state Board recognizes. The above links will provide individual state information. Below are the two main national certifying boards:
How do i find courses to meet certification requirements?
Each certifying board has developed a list of core areas of study. Your coursework must meet these requirements. The ATTC is an educational provider for the following the certifying organizations: NADAAC, IC & RC, NBCC.
Does ATTC training meet certification requirements?
Our courses often meet requirements for core competency areas although we recommend that you confirm this with your state board.
ONLINE COURSES
Do I have to be at my computer at a particular time?
No. A course is entirely self-paced, you can work on it anytime that is convenient for you. We make the course available on the start date and will send you a web address and login instructions on that day. From then on you can access the course material (reading, links and a few video scenarios), you'll communicate with the instructor on an online Discussion Board and by email. There are 5 modules that contain 1 or 2 assignments that you will post to the Discussion Board where you'll get feedback from the instructor as well as fellow students. It's very interactive yet asynchronous (no real time communication). There will be a Pre Evaluation survey, and at the end a 10 question Post Test which you must achieve at least 70% score, and finally a Post Evaluation survey that must be completed to receive a certificate.
What kind of interaction with classmates and the instructor can I expect?
Communication with the instructor is done mainly on a Discussion Board and by email. We encourage classmates to comment and interact with one another via the discussion board to capitalize on the experience of the group.
What are the computer system requirements for the class?
A computer (PC or MAC) with an internet connection.
MOTIVATIONAL INTERVIEWING
How do I become a MINT trainer (Motivational Interviewing Network of Trainers)?
Send an email to <mint.tnt.info@gmail.com> requesting an announcement for the next round of trainings.
Competition is tough. Apply early and be sure to get ongoing supervision and coaching on your skills.
For more information on Motivational Interviewing training opportunities:
http://motivationalinterview.org/training/mint.htm
