How do I become a Certified Addiction Counselor (CAC)?
Refer to page 9-10 in the certification manual for details. A checklist for the certification process can be found on page 30.
What is Reciprocity of Certification?
The SCAADAC Certification Commission offers reciprocity for counselor certification for those counselors holding a current addiction certification or addictions counseling licensure at the time of the application as described in Appendix VI: Certification by AOD Reciprocity. SCAADAC does accept verification of passage of the NAADAC or ICRC written examinations. Applicants must have test results sent directly to the SCAADAC Certification Commission. Reciprocity candidates who cannot provide proof of passing an oral interview with the reciprocal certification body must pass a SCAADAC Certification Oral Interview.
Who is eligible for Certification by AOD reciprocity?
- NCAC I, II or MAC
- IC & RC Clinical Counselor certification
- Any State Addictions Certification or License that utilizes either the NAADAC or ICRC written exam
Refer to page 31 in the certification manual for additional details.
Who is eligible for Certification by Other Licensure Reciprocity?
- Licensed Professional Counselor
- Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
- Licensed Psychiatrist
- Licensed Social Worker
- Licensed Psychologist
- Licensed Psychiatric Nurse
- Other Licensed Mental Health Counselor
Refer to page 32 in the certification manual for additional details.
How do I apply for Recertification?
Signed Certification Letter of Agreement and list of trainings related to the core functions confirming 40 hours of continuing education or training during the current two-year term for certification. The primary focus of trainings should be on the core functions. Also pay associated fees on line or with send in by mail with check or money order.
Refer to page 12 in the certification for additional details.
What are the late and inactive recertification fees?
Refer to page 34 in the certification manual.
How can I upgrade from CAC I to CAC II?
Applicants upgrading from CAC I to CAC II must:
- Complete page 1 of Certification Application
- Provide documentation of four (4) years full time or 8,000 hours of experience in the Alcohol and Other Drug Counseling Core Functions within the previous five years.
- Provide documentation of passing score on the NCAC II Written Exam (Note: exam score is valid four years).
- Submit an Evaluator’s Statement that has been completed by a SCAADAC CAC II or supervisor.
- Document 75 hours of clinical supervision that has occurred within the last two years.
- Submit a signed affirmation of adherence to the SCAADAC Code of Ethics.
- Make payment of upgrade fee.
Incomplete packets will not be accepted.
What is the difference between a CAC I and CAC II?
Refer to page 6 in the certification manual.
How can I verify my work experience?
Work experience must be verified by current and/or previous employers on official letterhead and should specify dates of employment, full-time or part-time status, job title and that job duties were in core functions of addictions counseling.
What are the core functions?
Refer to page 7 in the certification manual.
Guidelines for Submitted Documentation
Refer to page 15 in the Certification Manual.
How many times can I re-take the written examination?
You can take an examination up to three times in a calendar year. If you do fail the examination three times, NCC AP requires that you wait until the next year to try again. During that time, you should study again and look for new resources to help you with the examination, such as the Basics of Addiction Counseling Study Guides.
How much does it cost to take the written examination?
The base cost of the examination is $150. Refer to https://www.naadac.org/testing-faqs for additional information.
How long are written exam results valid?
Your passing score is valid four years.
Am I a member of SCAADAC?
SCAADAC Certification and SCAADAC membership are distinct. SCAADAC membership is not required to hold a certified addictions counselor credential and certification does not automatically include membership. Click here for more information about the benefits of NAADAC membership.