New Counselors Start Here
Congratulations on your decision to become a Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Counselor!
SUD Counseling is a rewarding career that allows you to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. As an SUD Counselor, you will provide vital support and guidance to individuals on their recovery journey, helping to build healthier families and communities.
In addition to friendly and certified credentialing experts, CADTP offers services and benefits that can make a real difference in your career experience.
Before you make a decision on your certifying agency, take a look at a Comparison of Certifying Agencies in California.
The DHCS, UCSD-hosted 80-Hour Core Competency Course is now open for registration.
FAQ
New Counselor FAQ’s
CADTP is one of three SUD counselor certifying organizations recognized by the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS), Licensing and Certification Division (LCD).
As required in the regulations, all certifying agencies are currently accredited by the Institute for Credentialing Excellence (ICE), a part of the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA).
Legal Requirements for SUD Counselor Certification
Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Counselor Certification is mandatory for anyone providing counseling services in programs licensed or certified by the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS). This requirement is established under the California Code of Regulations, Title 9, Section 13000, and has been in effect since April 1, 2005. For details, you can read the regulations at: www.dhcs.ca.gov.
Certifying Agencies
CADTP is one of three SUD counselor certifying organizations recognized by the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) Licensing and Certification Division (LCD). In compliance with state regulations, all certifying agencies, including CADTP, are accredited by the Institute for Credentialing Excellence (ICE), which is affiliated with the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA).
California State Residency Requirement
To be eligible for CADTP registration you must reside in California at least 51% of the time. If you provide an out-of-state license or out-of-state mailing address, we will require proof of state residency (effective 8/1/2023)
Registering as an SUD Counselor for the First Time
Before being employed as a counselor in a DHCS licensed or certified program an applicant must register as a Substance Use Disorder Registered Counselor (SUDRC) by completing the Registration Application along with the following:
- Registration fee of $100 (Non-Refundable)
- Signed Code of Conduct/Ethics
- Copy of State ID (driver’s License) *If you provide an out-of-state license, we will require proof of CA state residency (effective 8/1/2023)
- 2×2 photo of the applicant
- A Prerequisite of a 9-hour orientation course must be submitted with the application.
- The course is available online from a CADTP approved CEU Provider offering the required Registrant Orientation course.
Steps to SUD Counselor Certification (SUDCC)
Registered Counselors (SUDRC) will have five years from the date of registration to complete the following:
- 80 Hours of Core Comptencies AB2473 (submit within the first 6 months of registration)
- 315 hours of formal SUD-specific education
- 255 hours of supervised SUD training as a substance use disorder counselor (effective for initial registrations on or after 11/1/2021)
- 2,080 hours of SUD counseling work experience
- Passing the SUDCC exam
Pathway to Certification
Digital Credentials and Pathways
CADTPs digital credentials include Pathways, a dynamic and empowering feature designed exclusively for you through our digital credential platform, Accredible. Welcome to a chapter in your professional journey as a CADTP counselor!
The Registrant Liaison Program
For CADTP Registrants
Partner with a dedicated Registrant Liaison to craft a tailored certification plan just for you.
Shamra Butler is a certified Certification Specialist. With six years working directly with CADTP registrants and certificants, she has the experience and knowledge to assist and support registrants throughout their certification journey! Be sure to read the testimonials below and decide if the Registrant Liaison Program is right for you!
Experience dedicated support through your certification process with our expert Registrant Liaison.
We help you overcome barriers—from fulfilling education requirements to achieving exam readiness.
Services Available through the Registrant Liaison Program
A Personalized Plan
Receive customized guidance from a certification specialist tailored to your certification goals.
Virtual Consultations
Meet with your Liaison at times that fit your schedule in the comfort of your preferred location.
Financial Support
Explore scholarships and aid designed for those who qualify. (Based on income guidelines by County.)
Program Services
- Help with navigating the certification process
- Sourcing educational options
- Locating exam study materials, and more
This program is a part of the DHCS “Behavioral Health Workforce Development (BHWD)” Project No.: 22-20574, which supports the growth of California’s Behavioral Health Workforce.
What CADTP Registrants have to say about the Registrant Liaison Program
“The expert guidance provided by the Registrant Liaison, Shamra, changed my life. Prior to transferring my registration to CADTP from another certifying agency, I was ready to give up on my dream of becoming a certified substance use disorder counselor.
The other agency’s application and verification process was so difficult it created one roadblock after another. Thankfully a coworker suggested I consider CADTP and promised it would be one of the best decisions I would ever make.
Within a few short months of working with the Resident Liaison, I was provided with study materials, a test prep class, and an appointment to take the IC&RC examination. I am proud to say I passed the exam with flying colors! Thank you again CADTP and Shamra for the unparalleled support.” – Angela
“The Registrant Liaison program helped me so much these last 9 months. Shamra was able to meet me over zoom and find out what needs I have regarding my exam worries. A test prep guide was sent out along with the 12 modalities of case management. After I went through the modalities, a book was sent out that ended up helping so much. Not to mention the extra classes Shamra enrolled me in to help with studying. I ended up passing my test a month and half ago. I am very grateful for this program and for Shamra! I recommend CADTP to everyone!” – Zoey
“When I received the email about the Registrant Liaison Program, I was thrilled. I had submitted all my documents but was unsure how I would afford the fees. As a single-income household, the Liaison Program was a game-changer. Not only did they provide financial assistance, but they also gave me a study guide, extra training, and access to study groups led by professionals. Their dedicated support made all the difference, and I passed the exam on my first try. The program truly helped me reach my goal quickly and successfully.” – Melissa, Certified Drug & Alcohol Counselor, Pinnacle Treatment Center
