NCAAC (NAADAC) - National Certified Adolescent Addictions Counselor

The NCAAC certification is designed for professionals specializing in the treatment of substance use disorders in adolescents. It signifies advanced competency in addressing the unique needs and challenges faced by adolescents with substance use disorders.

Completion Time: 4 hours

Eligibility and Certification Requirements

• A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in counseling, behavioral science, or a related field.

• Specific training and/or coursework in adolescent development and substance use disorders.

• A defined number of hours of supervised experience in adolescent addiction counseling.

• A current credential as an addiction counselor or a professional counselor.

• Passing the NCAAC certification examination.

Cost: $235

Exam Format

The examination includes 250 multiple-choice questions covering adolescent development, substance abuse assessment and treatment specific to adolescents, counseling theories, and ethical considerations.

The NCAAC certification exam is weighted as follows: Pharmacology of Psychoactive Substances (25%), Adolescent Counseling Practice (40%), Theories of Counseling and Adolescent Practice (20%), and Professional Considerations for Addiction Counselors (15%).

Certification Process

Obtain the necessary educational qualifications and professional credentialing in addiction counseling.

Gain supervised practical experience in adolescent addiction counseling.

Complete relevant training and/or coursework in adolescent substance use disorders.

Apply for the NCAAC certification through the NCC AP.

Successfully pass the NCAAC certification examination.

NCAAC certification requires renewal every two years, which involves obtaining continuing education credits focused on adolescent addiction counseling and adherence to ethical standards.

The NCAAC certified credential renewal fee is $200.

Continuing education for NCAAC certified professionals may include updates in adolescent treatment modalities, emerging research in adolescent substance use disorders, and advancements in counseling techniques specific to this age group.

For specific information regarding the National Certified Adolescent Addictions Counselor certification, including eligibility criteria, examination details, and renewal processes, it is recommended to consult directly with the National Certification Commission for Addiction Professionals (NCC AP) or the National Association for Addiction Professionals (NAADAC). These organizations provide comprehensive standards, resources, and support for professionals specializing in adolescent addiction counseling.

Career Opportunities

NCAAC certified professionals often work in substance abuse treatment centers, schools, juvenile justice systems, private practices, and community health settings.

They play a crucial role in assessing, treating, and managing substance use disorders in adolescents, and often work collaboratively with families, schools, and other community resources.

The NAADAC also offers the National Certified Addiction Counselor (NCAC).