Steps to Earning Substance Abuse Counselor Certification in Hawaii

With its tropical climate and rich Polynesian culture, Hawaii is arguably one of the most beautiful and unique states in the US. Unfortunately, that distinction comes at a cost, especially when it comes to how substance use disorders affect the lives of the state’s residents. Due to Hawaii’s isolation, many illicit drugs hit its shores through the mail, which authorities say makes it tough to catch suppliers. In 2022, local law enforcement seized over 1,700 pounds of crystal meth, a drug that locals say has wreaked havoc here for decades. Officials report that despite record-breaking busts, the supply chain is alive and well as the price of crystal meth has plummeted. Studies show that substance use disorders often affect Indigenous Hawaiians the most, whether it’s crystal meth, heroin, or alcohol. For many, poverty and the long-lasting effects of colonization keep recovery resources out of reach. If you’d like to bring recovery and hope to Hawaiians from all walks of life, this guide will walk you through what it takes to answer the call to become a substance use disorder counselor in Hawaii. To help you plan your career, we’ll also cover salaries, potential employers, and schools where you can learn all about providing compassionate, evidence-based care.

Steps to Becoming Certified as a Substance Abuse Counselor in Hawaii

To become a substance abuse counselor in Hawaii, you’ll need to be certified through the Alcohol and Drug Abuse Division (ADAD) of the Hawaii Department of Health. The ADAD offers five types of certifications: As frontline professionals, Certified Substance Abuse Counselors are trained to help people through any type of substance use disorder. Even if you’d like to enter a more advanced role later in your career, becoming a CSAC in Hawaii can be a great way to gain first-hand experience. In this section, we’ll cover what steps you can take to do just that.

Step 1: Fulfill Basic Education Requirements

Hawaii is one of the few states where you can become a substance use disorder counselor with a high school diploma or GED. If you earn a college degree in a field related to behavioral health or a certificate in substance use disorder education, you may not have to complete as many supervised work hours in the next step. No matter what your highest level of education is, according to ADAD requirements, you’ll have to complete 300 education hours. 270 of those hours must be directly related to the eight domains of substance use disorder counseling:

• Clinical evaluation
• Treatment planning
• Referral
• Service coordination
• Counseling
• Client, family, and community education
• Documentation
• Professional responsibilities and ethics

You’ll also need to take six hours of classes on four specific topics:

• HIV and sexually-transmitted infections
• Substance use disorder ethics
• Confidentiality including 42CFR Part 2 (a federal law about how substance abuse professionals should handle patient records)
• Cultural awareness

You can earn education hours from two sources: ADAD-approved education providers or accredited colleges and universities.

Earning Hours Through Approved Education Providers

There are many in-person and online classes, seminars, and other training opportunities that can count towards your education hour requirement. Information about approved providers and upcoming events can be found on the ADAD’s training information webpage. If you’re unsure if a provider or class will count towards your certification, you can contact the ADAD for approval.

Earning Hours Through Accredited College Degree Programs

If you pursue a behavioral health-related degree or certification from an accredited college or university, many of your classes may count towards the 270-hour requirement. According to ADAD guidelines, the division accepts up to 180 hours of classes about substance use disorders and up to 45 hours of classes about co-occurring disorders. A three-semester-hour college course is usually worth about 45 education hours. It’s important to note that the ADAD evaluates and approves college coursework on a case-by-case basis, so not all substance use disorder courses will automatically qualify. Contact the ADAD before enrolling to verify which courses will count toward your certification requirements.

Education Requirements by Degree Level

Here’s how your education level affects your supervised work hour requirements according to ADAD certification standards:

Education Level	Required Supervised Hours	Typical Timeline
High School Diploma or GED	6,000 hours	3-4 years full-time
Bachelor’s Degree (behavioral health or SUD certificate)	4,000 hours	2-3 years full-time
Master’s Degree (behavioral health field)	2,000 hours	1-2 years full-time

Step 2: Submit the CSAC Application, Submit Other Forms When Requested, and Attend an Orientation Meeting

Hawaii has a unique form submission process. In many states, applicants send in forms and supporting documents all at once. In Hawaii, you submit these documents in stages. The first stage is sending the initial CSAC application to the ADAD. This form asks for:

• Biographical data
• Information regarding any convictions or disciplinary actions taken against you
• Current and previous employers with an official job title and description submitted by your employer
• Your highest level of education
• Three references the ADAD can contact
• A $25 application fee
• A signature acknowledging that you’ve read the CSAC Code of Ethics

After receiving your application, the ADAD will review it, check your references, and run a background check. According to ADAD processing timelines, it usually takes about eight to 10 weeks to process applications. Once your application is approved, the ADAD will contact you and open a file on your progress. After your file is opened, the ADAD will ask for official school transcripts and more in-depth information about your work experience. It typically takes the ADAD four to six weeks to review and verify this information. When that’s complete, the ADAD will help you schedule an orientation meeting so you can learn more about the certification process. While you need a degree, high school diploma, or equivalent to start this process, you don’t have to have all education or work experience hours completed at this time. Anything you’ve already completed may count towards certification requirements.

Step 3: Complete Supervised Work Hours

To be eligible for the CSAC credential, you’ll need to complete supervised work experience hours under the guidance of an approved supervisor. Through this step, you’ll get invaluable mentoring and learn how to apply counseling principles to real-world situations.

General Work Experience Hour Requirements

Per ADAD requirements, the amount of hours you’ll have to complete depends on what type of degree you have. If you have a:

• High school diploma or equivalent, you’ll need 6,000 hours
• Bachelor’s degree in a field related to behavioral health or a certificate in substance use education, you’ll need 4,000 hours
• Master’s degree in a field related to behavioral health, you’ll need 2,000 hours

In general, any hours spent counseling clients (in groups or individually) whose primary diagnosis is a substance use disorder count towards this requirement. Time spent on duties such as recording client progress and working on treatment plans also qualifies.

Work Experience Hours in the 12 Core Functions

Regardless of how many work experience hours you need, ADAD standards require you to spend 400 of those hours working on the 12 core functions of substance use disorder counselors:

• Screening
• Intake
• Orientation
• Assessment
• Treatment planning
• Counseling
• Case management
• Crisis intervention
• Client education
• Referral
• Report and record keeping
• Consultation with other professionals regarding client treatment

To build a solid foundation in each duty, you’ll spend at least 20 hours on each one. Your supervisor can help you determine which areas you should spend the remainder of your hours on.

Finding a Supervisor

If you earned a degree or already work in substance use disorder treatment, your former instructors or more experienced colleagues might make great supervisors. According to ADAD supervision requirements, your supervisor must meet specific qualifications. They must be:

• Employed or contracted by the organization where you’re earning work experience hours
• A CSAC or higher in Hawaii or another state that certifies counselors through the International Certification and Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC), the organization that runs the exam process in the next step
• Trained and experienced in the 12 core functions

If you have trouble finding a supervisor in your area, you can ask the ADAD about options during your orientation meeting.

Step 4: Pass the IC&RC Alcohol and Drug Counselor Exam

The final step to becoming a CSAC in Hawaii is passing the IC&RC’s Alcohol and Drug Counselor Exam. According to IC&RC testing guidelines, the exam fee is $125. This computer-based exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions covering four topics:

• Screening, assessment, and engagement
• Referral, treatment planning, and collaboration
• Counseling and education
• Ethics and professional responsibilities

You’ll have three hours to complete the exam. You can choose when and where to take it, but the ADAD only operates a few testing sites so you may have to travel. To prepare, you can use materials found in the IC&RC’s test prep database. Once you pass, the ADAD will contact you to verify your information within 30 days. After that, you’ll receive your new CSAC certificate by mail in five to 10 business days. If you don’t pass on the first try, you can retake the exam after 90 days. Applicants who don’t pass after three tries can still become CSACs. To help them improve, the ADAD may assign them more supervised training hours or other types of training.

Advanced Certification Options in Hawaii

As you gain experience in your new role, you might discover that your true passion and talents lie in a specific aspect of being a CSAC. The ADAD offers advanced certifications in a wide variety of specialties:

Certified Criminal Justice Addictions Professional (CCJP)

Many people who battle substance use disorders run into legal issues. CCJPs are experts in helping people find hope whether they’re incarcerated, on probation or parole, or living in an at-risk community. To earn this credential, you’ll need your CSAC plus additional experience working in criminal justice settings, specialized training in forensic counseling, and successful completion of the IC&RC Criminal Justice Addictions Professional exam.

Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCS)

If you enjoy mentoring new counselors, becoming a CCS can be a great way to help Hawaii’s recovery network grow. Clinical supervisors guide counselors-in-training through their supervised work hours and help them develop professional skills. Requirements include holding a CSAC credential for at least two years, completing supervisor-specific training courses, and demonstrating competency in providing clinical supervision.

Certified Substance Abuse Program Administrator (CSAPA)

Recovery centers of all kinds need administrators who don’t only know the ins and outs of budgeting, but know how to design programs that truly help people. CSAPAs oversee treatment facility operations, staff management, and program development. This credential requires administrative experience in substance abuse treatment settings, completion of management and leadership training, and passing a specialized exam focused on program administration. While not always required, many people prepare for advanced certifications by pursuing bachelor’s or master’s degrees in counseling, social work, or healthcare administration.

Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Honolulu, Maui, and Throughout Hawaii

If you’re looking for substance abuse counselor jobs in Hawaii, the capital of Honolulu on O’ahu is a great place to start. In addition to many independent providers, the city is home to The Queen’s Medical Center and Moanalua Medical Center, both of which provide substance use disorder services. On Maui, Maui Behavioral Health Resources operates a network of mental health, substance use disorder, and youth and family services centers. You can explore other job opportunities through:

• The Ohana Addiction Treatment Center: A center in Kailua Kona that combines holistic wellbeing with evidence-based treatments
• The Big Island Substance Abuse Council: A recovery services provider with multiple locations on Hawai’i
• The Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation: The government agency responsible for overseeing jails, prisons, and probation programs in Hawaii
• The Bobby Benson Center: A center founded in 1990 in Kahuku that specializes in residential youth recovery services and co-occurring disorders

For more opportunities, you can explore state-wide efforts sponsored by the ADAD. Through projects such as the Hawai’i Opioid Initiative and Hawaii CARES, ADAD partners with local substance use disorder recovery organizations to bring services to every segment of the population. Hawaii is also a hub for many privately-owned recovery centers that serve people from all over the country.

Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Honolulu, Maui, and Throughout Hawaii

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics’ May 2023 Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics, substance abuse counselors in Hawaii make a median salary of $46,740. Entry-level counselors in the state often make around $45,950 while the highest-earning professionals make about $99,290 and up. Your own salary expectations may vary based on exact location:

• Honolulu: As of May 2023, substance abuse counselors in Honolulu make a median salary of $46,040 per BLS data. New counselors typically make about $45,950. Experienced counselors sometimes make around $99,290
• Maui: In the Kahului-Wailuku-Lahaina area on Maui, BLS data shows the median wage for substance abuse counselors is $49,610 with early-career professionals making about $46,760 as of May 2023. The highest earners in the area make about $93,150

Factors that influence your earning potential include your education level, years of experience, credentials held (CSAC vs. advanced certifications), employment setting (government, private practice, nonprofit), and whether you work in urban or rural areas.

Substance Abuse Counselor Degree Options in Hawaii

Even though Hawaii is one of the smallest states by size and population, you’ll find no shortage of college programs that can help you become a CSAC. Many of the 10 schools in the University of Hawaii Community College system offer two-year substance abuse and addictions studies certification programs. These programs:

• Are specifically designed to help students meet CSAC requirements
• Include online learning options
• Often offer hands-on practicum experiences

If you’d like to get a degree in the broader field of behavioral health, Chaminade University in Honolulu offers both a bachelor’s in psychology (available online) and a Master’s in Counseling Psychology. Brigham Young University in Laie offers a bachelor’s of social work with classes on substance use disorders. Though not solely focused on counseling, these types of programs can prepare you to help people through substance use disorders, mental health issues, and more. They also reduce the number of supervised work hours you’ll need to complete for CSAC certification. Remember to contact the ADAD to verify which specific courses will count toward your education hour requirements before enrolling in any program.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to become a CSAC in Hawaii?

The timeline depends on your education level. With a master’s degree, you can become certified in about two to three years (including time to complete 2,000 supervised hours). With a bachelor’s degree, expect three to four years. With only a high school diploma, the process typically takes four to five years due to the 6,000 supervised hour requirement.

Can I become a substance abuse counselor in Hawaii without a college degree?

Yes. Hawaii is one of the few states where you can earn CSAC certification with just a high school diploma or GED. You’ll need to complete 300 education hours through approved providers and 6,000 supervised work hours. While this path takes longer, it’s an accessible option for career changers and those unable to pursue a college degree.

How much does CSAC certification cost in Hawaii?

Direct costs include a $25 application fee and $125 exam fee, totaling $150. Additional costs include education hours (which vary by provider, from free workshops to paid seminars), and potential tuition if you pursue a degree. You’ll also need to factor in living expenses during your supervised work hours, which may be paid positions at reduced wages.

Do Hawaii substance abuse counselor credentials transfer to other states?

Hawaii uses the IC&RC certification system, which offers reciprocity agreements with other IC&RC member states. If you earn your CSAC in Hawaii and want to work in another IC&RC state, you may be able to transfer your credential with minimal additional requirements. Important note on reciprocity: While IC&RC facilitates credential transfer, each state has specific conditions and additional requirements for accepting out-of-state credentials. Some states may require supplemental coursework, additional exams, or proof of continued education. Always check with your target state’s credentialing board for exact reciprocity terms and any fees involved in the transfer process before assuming your Hawaii CSAC will automatically transfer.

Can I complete my education hours online?

Yes. The ADAD accepts online courses from approved education providers. Many workshops, seminars, and training programs are available remotely, making it easier for working adults to complete the 300-hour requirement. Check the ADAD’s training calendar for upcoming online opportunities, or contact them to verify if a specific online course qualifies.

What’s the difference between CSAC and CSAPA certifications?

CSAC (Certified Substance Abuse Counselor) is the foundational credential for direct client care. You’ll provide counseling, assessments, and treatment planning. CSAPA (Certified Substance Abuse Program Administrator) is an advanced credential for those who want to manage treatment facilities, oversee programs, and handle administrative responsibilities. You typically need CSAC experience before pursuing CSAPA.

Are there jobs available for CSACs in Hawaii?

Yes. Hawaii has a growing need for substance abuse counselors due to the state’s ongoing challenges with crystal meth, opioids, and alcohol use disorders. Job opportunities exist in government agencies, private treatment centers, hospitals, correctional facilities, and nonprofit organizations throughout the islands. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects continued growth in this field nationwide. 2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and employment figures for Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors reflect state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed November 2025.