Yvonne Said:

Is there any way to become a certified addictions counselor without years of schooling?

We Answered:

Most states have some form of certified addictions counselor that you can obtain without a masters degree. (In some states you don't need a four year undergrad degree, either.) In New York, the certification is a CASAC (Credentialed Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselor) but it still takes 2 to 3 years because you need a certain number of hours working in the field and also some coursework in addictions and substances. So, you may not have years of school, but you'll have to work in the field for some years to get the certification.

Check online for the name and credentialing process in the state you live in.

Another tip - a masters in counseling psychology does not allow you to become a licensed therapist in all states. The degree that does is a Masters in Social Work (MSW.) Ironic, isn't it?

An MSW will take you about 60 credits, two years of school, and you can be a licensed counselor with that, and work in addictions.

And, if you still want the addiction certification in addition to a masters degree, the MSW satisfies all of the educational requirements and many of the hours necessary, so it's a much faster process.

Best of luck in whatever you choose.