Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counseling (CASAC)

Substance abuse and addiction rates have substantially increased in the United States over the past few years. However, there has been a decline in the amount of substance abuse treatment and harm reduction services available. As part of our mission to provide pathways for our students to engage with and serve their communities, the Mount’s Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counseling (CASAC) certificate program provides our students with the option of obtaining coursework needed to become credentialed substance abuse counselors.

Why get your certificate in CASAC?

Here’s what makes the CASAC program unique:

• Growing field: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors are expected to grow 19% from 2023 to 2033, which is much faster than the rate for other occupations.

• Open to all majors: Our CASAC program is open to all students, regardless of major, and to non-degree bearing students.

• Real-world marketable skills: You will gain built-in skills and preparation for certification upon the completion of this program that will help you become more marketable in the job search. In addition, the majority of employers require at least a CASAC-T for work in the field of substance use.

What to expect in the CASAC program

27 credits - 350 hours

Learn more about CASAC program requirements here.

Students looking to complete the Mount’s CASAC 350 hour educational certificate program will enroll in nine courses that meet the 350 hours minimum education requirement of New York State’s Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS) for the CASAC. Courses include: Principles and Techniques of Interviewing and Counseling; Psychology of Addictions across the Life SpamSpan; Communication and Group Process; Psychopathology; Case Management: Special Population; Theories of Social Casework; Drugs & Society; Psychopharmacology; and Cultural Diversity in Healthcare. Upon completion, students are issued the OASAS 350 Hour Certificate of Completion, allowing them to apply to OASAS for trainee certification, or a CASAC-T certificate.

Be prepared for your future

In order to become a Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor in New York, one must meet certain requirements as put forth by New York’s Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS). These requirements include:

1. Certain ethical and background requirements
2. Specific work experience requirements
3. Specific education and training requirements (350 hours) 
4. The passing of a computer based Alcohol and Drug Counselor examination. All of these requirements are coordinated by OASAS. Please click here for more information.

The Mount’s 350 hour CASAC educational certificate provides students with evidence of completion of requirement 3 from above.