This program is designed to provide individuals with the skills and competencies necessary for employment as paraprofessionals in the field of chemical dependency counseling. Specifically, the program will provide instruction enabling those completing the program to function in rehabilitation or therapeutic communities, or in correctional or mental health facilities.

In addition, the curriculum provides continuing education for those currently employed in the field of chemical dependency counseling or related fields, such as law enforcement, corrections or mental health.

All courses with the exception of BHS 242 count toward the A.A.S. degree in Mental Health Assistant.

A Certificate is awarded upon completion of the requirements for this program.

Students who successfully complete the Certificate in Chemical Dependency Counseling (CDC) will be able to:

• Identify components of the Human Services Delivery System including:

  • The roles of the various members of the service delivery team.

  • Client assessment/referral/advocacy continuum.

  • The historical perspective and future trends of the Human Services field.

• Demonstrate application of the strength-based approach in the client-centered counseling process.

• Display an understanding, self-awareness and respect for the diversity among clients, colleagues and society as a whole.

• Exhibit the ability to use technology as a professional tool and to have an understanding of its impact on the field of Human Services, its clients and agencies.

Courses should be selected in consultation with an advisor.

First Semester

Course No.	Descriptive Title	Credit Hours
ENG 101	Composition I	3
PSY 102	Interviewing and Counseling Skills	3
BHS 242	Drug and Alcohol Use and Abuse	3
CDC 103	Chemical Dependency Counseling Practicum I	3
CDC 203	Chemical Dependency Counseling Practicum III	1
TOTAL		14

Second Semester

Course No.	Descriptive Title	Credit Hours
PSY 134	Group Dynamics	3
BHS 103	Social Problems in Today's World	3
PSY 111	Introduction to Psychology	3
CDC 104	Chemical Dependency Counseling Practicum II	2
CDC 204	Chemical Dependency Counseling Practicum IV	3
BHS 201	Contemporary Problems and Issues in Substance Abuse	3
TOTAL		17
	TOTAL CREDIT HOURS	31

NOTES:

1. All CDC students are required to submit a completed physical examination form prior to field placement. All immunizations indicated on the form must be current. When the form is on file, the College Health Office will issue a waiver clearing the student for field placement. Hepatitis B vaccine series is highly recommended and may be required by the placement site under the OSHA Standard on Exposure to Blood Borne Pathogens.

2. Transportation to and from practicum sites is the responsibility of all students in the program, including those in the dorm. If you do not have a car, please be sure that you are able to find alternate means of transportation.

NOTE: Students enrolled in a Certificate program must complete at least 50% of the program credits at DCC.* Students must earn an overall cumulative GPA of 2.0 or higher in order to be awarded the certificate.

*Certain courses may be required to be taken at DCC; check your specific program for these exceptions.