To become a licensed substance abuse counselor in Utah, you need a bachelor’s degree in a related field, 300 education hours, 350-hour practicum (150 in a clinical setting), registration as an SUDC, 500 supervised experience hours, and passing a national certification exam. The process typically takes 3.5-5 years from start to full ASUDC licensure.
Table of Contents
In many ways, Utah seems to have weathered America’s opioid epidemic better than most states. In 1999, the CDC reported that Utah had the fifth-highest overdose mortality rate in the country at 10.6 out of every 100,000 people.
But over the next 20 years, overdose rates across America spiked thanks to the availability of prescription opioids and the introduction of fentanyl. In West Virginia, the overdose rate peaked at 90. Utah’s rate rose, too, but only to the very low 20s.
However, Utah’s traditionally low overdose rate isn’t a reason to put recovery services on the back burner. People from all walks of life from all across the state still struggle with addiction. And every one of them deserves hope.
If providing that hope is your calling, here’s what you need to know about becoming a substance abuse counselor in Utah, potential employers across the state, and some schools that can help you prepare for a rewarding career.
Steps to Becoming Certified as a Substance Abuse Counselor in Utah
To become a licensed substance abuse counselor in Utah, you’ll have to go through the Utah Department of Commerce’s Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL). The DOPL is a government agency that enforces licensing laws for various professionals, including building inspectors and veterinarians.
The DOPL has five primary levels of substance use disorder credentials:
- Certified Substance Use Disorder Counselor (CSUDC or Certified SUDC)
- Licensed Substance Use Disorder Counselor (SUDC or LSUDC)
- Certified Advanced Substance Use Disorder Counselor (CASUDC or Certified ASUDC)
- Licensed Advanced Substance Use Disorder Counselor (ASUDC or LASUDC)
- Master Addiction Counselor (MAC)
In this guide, we’ll focus on becoming a Licensed Advanced Substance Use Disorder Counselor, also known as an ASUDC. In addition to planning treatment and providing counseling, ASUDCs are licensed to treat mental health disorders once a mental health professional has diagnosed a patient.
Essential Scope of Practice Note: While ASUDCs can treat co-occurring mental health disorders, they cannot independently diagnose mental health conditions. Diagnosis must be performed by a licensed mental health professional such as an LCSW, psychologist, or psychiatrist. ASUDCs then provide treatment based on that diagnosis.
While earning this advanced license requires a bit more effort than the entry-level one, as an ASUDC, you can be well-positioned to transition into more specialized, high-level roles later in your career. Understanding the various credential levels and certification pathways can help you develop a strategic plan for your professional development.
Licensed vs. Certified: What’s the Difference?
Before we discuss how to become an ASUDC in Utah, it’s essential to understand the distinction between a Licensed ASUDC and a Certified ASUDC. These are two distinct credential levels with different supervision and experience requirements.
In short, there are two main differences: supervision and experience.
Certified ASUDCs must work under the direct supervision of a qualified mental health therapist trained in substance use disorders. This is because they haven’t gained enough experience hours to earn a full license. Certified ASUDCs are working toward their full license while gaining the necessary supervised hours.
On the other hand, Licensed ASUDCs can work under general supervision because they’ve earned enough experience hours for a full license. This means they typically have a little more freedom and autonomy during the counseling process. They’re also qualified to supervise counseling interns and Certified ASUDCs.
This guide focuses on the pathway to becoming a Licensed ASUDC, which is the standard professional credential in Utah.
1. Earn a Bachelor’s Degree and Fulfill Other Education Requirements
2. Register as a Substance Use Disorder Counselor
3. Complete 500 Hours of Supervised Experience
4. Pass a Standardized Substance Use Disorder Counselor Exam
5. Submit Your ASUDC Application
Step 1: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree and Fulfill Other Education Requirements
The minimum degree required to become an ASUDC in Utah is a bachelor’s degree. When you’re ready to explore your options, check out our comprehensive guide to substance abuse counselor degree programs. According to the DOPL, you can qualify with a degree in:
- Substance use disorders
- Addiction counseling
- Psychology
- Mental health counseling
- Marriage and family counseling
No matter which option you choose, you’ll need to take one class on human development across the lifespan and one general psychology class. You’ll also need to complete 2 hours of suicide prevention training before starting the next step. In total, the DOPL says you should complete 300 education hours before applying for your license.
Practicum Hours
As you earn your bachelor’s degree, you won’t just be learning about counseling theories in class. You’ll also get the chance to hone your new skills during a hands-on practicum experience. According to the DOPL, your practicum must include a minimum of 350 hours, with at least 150 hours completed in a clinical setting providing direct client services.
During your practicum, you’ll assist experienced counselors in creating treatment plans, assessing clients, and guiding individuals on their recovery journeys. However, you won’t be responsible for finding a practicum site on your own. Faculty fieldwork coordinators at your school will help you find the right one for your goals.
Timeline: Your bachelor’s degree typically takes 4 years to complete, with practicum hours integrated into your final year. Many students complete their 350 practicum hours (including the required 150 clinical hours) during their senior year while finishing coursework. Students who overlap their practicum and later supervised experience hours can shorten the overall pathway to licensure.
Step 2: Register as a Substance Use Disorder Counselor
One of the most essential parts of becoming a substance abuse counselor in Utah is earning supervised experience hours. However, before you do that, you’ll need to register as a Substance Use Disorder Counselor, also known as an SUDC.
The requirements for becoming an SUDC in Utah are:
- Earning an associate degree or higher
- Completing 200 hours of substance abuse education
- Completing a 200-hour practicum
- Taking courses on general psychology, human development, and suicide prevention
Fortunately, you’ll likely meet these requirements after earning your bachelor’s. All you’ll need to do is submit an SUDC application, $85 fee, and all required supporting documents to the DOPL.
Important Note: The SUDC registration is an intermediate step. To advance to the ASUDC license (covered in Steps 3-5), you’ll need to complete an additional 500 supervised experience hours beyond the initial 200-hour SUDC practicum.
Timeline: You can register as an SUDC during your final semester of your bachelor’s program or immediately after graduation. Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks once you submit your complete application.
Step 3: Complete 500 Hours of Supervised Experience
Once you become an SUDC, you’ll be ready to earn 500 supervised experience hours. During this time, you’ll work directly under someone who’s been an ASUDC for at least two years or a mental health professional with substance use disorder training.
Where To Complete Supervision Hours
According to DOPL regulations, you can complete your supervision hours at a:
- Hospital
- School
- Nonprofit agency
- Government agency
- Mental health organization
For your hours to count, the DOPL says you should be a paid employee. This means that volunteer work is unlikely to count. Fortunately, you can start earning hours while you earn your degree.
What You’ll Do To Earn Hours
As you earn your experience hours, you’ll basically do everything a full-fledged ASUDC does. However, you’ll be under the direct supervision of your supervisor. While this doesn’t mean your supervisor will always be in the room with you, the DOPL says they should always be available for you to consult.
Some of the things you might do during your supervised work experience include:
- Screening clients and determining what level of care they need
- Treatment planning and helping clients come up with long-term and short-term goals
- Counseling and educating individuals, groups, and families
- Performing crisis intervention when needed
- Collaborating with other counselors and mental health professionals
Additionally, for every 40 hours of client care you provide, you must meet with your supervisor face-to-face for one hour or be under their direct supervision for one hour. This allows them to answer any questions and help you determine which skills you need to work on.
Timeline: Working full-time, most counselors complete 500 hours in about 3-4 months. Part-time positions may extend this to 6-12 months. Many counselors begin this step while completing their bachelor’s degree, which can significantly reduce overall time to licensure.
Tips for Finding Quality Supervision
Choosing the right supervisor and placement is crucial for your development. Look for supervisors who:
- Have experience with diverse populations and treatment modalities
- Provide regular, structured feedback on your clinical skills
- Create opportunities to observe different aspects of addiction treatment
- Support your professional development and career goals
Step 4: Pass a Standardized Substance Use Disorder Counselor Exam
The DOPL doesn’t administer its own licensing exam. Instead, you can take one of three national exams administered by NAADAC or IC&RC. The Association of Utah Substance Abuse Professionals (AUSAP) offers support and resources for exam preparation, as well as assistance with the registration process. AUSAP is an organization that provides counselor training and advocates for equitable counseling policies.
While each exam is similar, there are some key differences between them. You can find prep materials through the AUSAP.
Option 1: The National Association of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors’ (NAADAC) National Certification Exam Level II
The NAADAC’s National Certification Exam, Level II, consists of 150 multiple-choice questions. You’ll have three hours to complete it. To pass, you’ll need to answer 67% of the questions correctly or answer 100 questions correctly.
The questions will test your knowledge of nine areas:
- Admissions, including intake, screening, and client orientation
- Clinical assessment
- Treatment planning
- Individual, family, and group counseling, including client education and crisis intervention
- Documentation
- Case management
- Continuing care and discharge planning
- Legal and ethical responsibilities, including professional development
- Psychopharmacology and physiology
While you can take this exam at an approved testing location in St. George, Orem, Logan, or Salt Lake City, you can also take it at home under the supervision of an online proctor. The fee is $210 for AUSAP members and $225 for non-members.
Option 2: The NAADAC’s Master Addiction Counselor (MAC) Exam
In most ways, the MAC Exam is similar to the Level II Exam. It consists of multiple-choice questions, takes three hours to complete, and covers the same nine areas. However, the questions may be a bit more in-depth. Also, to pass this exam, you’ll need to answer 75% or 112 questions correctly.
Because the MAC Exam is also administered by the NAADAC, the same scheduling rules and fees apply. If you’re planning on pursuing more advanced counseling certifications later, taking the MAC exam may be a good way to get a head start.
Option 3: The International Certification and Reciprocity Consortium’s (IC&RC) Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (AADC) Exam
This exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and has a three-hour time limit. However, scores are determined on an 800-point scale. 500 is a passing score.
Additionally, although the questions on this exam may be similar to those on other exams, they’re organized a bit differently. The AADC exam covers:
- Screening, assessment, and client engagement
- Treatment planning, referrals, and professional collaboration
- Counseling and client education
- Ethical and professional responsibilities
The IC&RC states that this exam also includes numerous questions about co-occurring disorders. Unfortunately, this exam can’t be taken at home, so you’ll need to schedule an exam at an approved location in Lindon, Salt Lake City, Taylorsville, or St. George. The fee is $210 for AUSAP members and $225 for non-members.
Choosing the Right Exam
Most Utah counselors choose the NAADAC Level II exam due to its reasonable pass rate (67%) and the option for remote testing. However, if you plan to pursue the new MAC license later, taking the MAC exam now can save you time. Consider your long-term career goals when making this decision.
Step 5: Submit Your ASUDC Application
Once you’ve met all previous requirements, you’re ready to submit your final application. Fortunately, the application itself is pretty straightforward. Like the SUDC application, the ASUDC application requires an $85 fee.
On the ASUDC application, you’ll be asked to provide:
- Personal information, including any criminal charges or disciplinary actions taken against you
- Details about your past employment
- Official college transcripts
- Certificates of completion for any additional training you’ve completed
- Details about your supervised training experience, including information about your supervisor
- Your exam score, if it hasn’t already been submitted to the DOPL
The DOPL doesn’t say how long it takes to process applications. But according to their schedule, their boards and committees meet multiple times a month.
Timeline: Application processing typically takes 4-8 weeks. Once approved, you’ll receive your Licensed ASUDC credential and can begin practicing with general supervision (rather than the direct supervision required for Certified ASUDCs).
A Quick Note About the Licensure Process
While the previous steps provide a general guide for becoming an ASUDC in Utah, the process may not be the same for everyone. Some applicants become Certified ASUDCs or ASUDC Interns before earning their full licenses. Similarly, you might decide to be an SUDC for an extended period of time before pursuing your license.
These choices might determine when you take your licensing exam and when you complete your supervised experience hours. But whichever path you choose, your instructors, supervisors, and more experienced colleagues can help you decide which path is right for you.
With a Master’s Degree and More Experience Comes Advanced Certification Options
In 2024, Utah revised several of its laws regarding the licensing of behavioral health professionals. One of the most significant changes was the introduction of a new advanced license: the Master Addiction Counselor (MAC) license.
The MAC license represents the highest level of credential in substance use disorder counseling in Utah. To qualify, you’ll need:
- A master’s degree in addiction counseling, mental health counseling, or a related field
- At least 2 years of experience as a licensed ASUDC
- Completion of advanced clinical training requirements
- Passing the NAADAC MAC exam (if not already completed)
- Additional supervised clinical hours focused on complex cases
As an MAC, you’ll be licensed to provide advanced psychotherapeutic treatment to people battling mental health disorders. Being able to do that as a substance use disorder counselor means you can help more people with more complex issues. MACs also qualify for higher reimbursement rates from insurance companies and have greater autonomy in clinical decision-making.
This credential positions you for leadership roles, private practice, clinical supervision, and specialized treatment programs. If you’re committed to long-term growth in the addiction counseling field, planning for the MAC license from the start of your career can help you chart a clear professional development path.
Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Salt Lake City, Provo, and Throughout Utah
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Salt Lake City is home to a bigger network of counselors than anywhere else in Utah, making it a great place to start your own job hunt. Salt Lake City is home to large nonprofits, such as Odyssey House, that offer low-cost and no-cost treatment, as well as First Step House, which has multiple locations in Utah.
The Provo-Orem Metro is an excellent place to look for substance use disorder counselor jobs in Utah. For example, you may want to explore recovery centers like Ardu Recovery and New Roads, both of which provide residential, outpatient, and dual diagnosis services.
For more substance abuse counselor job opportunities in Utah, you may want to investigate:
- Steps Recovery: a provider with locations in Payson, St. George, Orem, and Murray
- The Utah Office of Substance Use and Mental Health: a government-run human services agency that runs a crisis line and partners with recovery centers across the state
- Utah Support Advocates for Recovery Awareness: a statewide network of recovery professionals and advocates with locations in Salt Lake City, Ogden, St. George, Price, and Moab
- Wasatch Behavioral Health: a community-oriented mental health center with locations in Provo and Heber that’s been open since 1976
When exploring job opportunities, consider factors beyond salary. Look for employers who offer quality clinical supervision, opportunities for professional development, manageable caseloads, and a supportive work environment. These factors significantly impact job satisfaction and your growth as a counselor. Discover various substance abuse counselor career paths and specializations to find the ideal fit for your interests.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Salt Lake City, Provo, and Throughout Utah
As of May 2024, the BLS reports that the median salary for substance abuse counselors in Utah is $65,920. New counselors often earn closer to $34,560, while their more experienced colleagues can make upwards of $111,470. For a detailed breakdown of compensation across the field, visit our comprehensive salary guide.
Here’s how salaries break down in Utah’s major metro areas:
- Salt Lake City: According to the BLS, counselors in the Salt Lake City-Murray area earn a median wage of $67,540, while entry-level professionals typically earn around $37,120 as of May 2024. The highest-paid counselors in the area often make about $107,150
- Provo: In the Provo-Orem-Lehi Metro, the BLS says substance use disorder counselors make a median salary of $60,170 as of May 2024. Early-career counselors often make about $33,82,0, while more experienced counselors make as much as $103,960
Your earning potential can vary significantly based on several factors:
- Credential level: MACs typically earn 15-25% more than ASUDCs due to their advanced training and expanded scope of practice
- Work setting: Private practices and hospitals often pay more than nonprofit agencies, though nonprofits may offer better benefits and loan forgiveness programs
- Specialization: Counselors with expertise in co-occurring disorders, medication-assisted treatment (MAT), or specific populations (adolescents, veterans) command higher salaries
- Geographic location: Urban areas like Salt Lake City offer higher salaries but also have higher costs of living
Substance Abuse Counselor Degree Options in Utah
Because the DOPL accepts a wide range of bachelor’s degrees, you’ll have plenty of options when it comes time to choose a program. For instance, Utah Valley University in Orem offers an ASUDC certificate program designed specifically for students seeking licensure.
The University of Utah in Salt Lake City also offers an ASUDC program through its College of Social Work. This program is available online and on campus, providing flexibility for working students.
You may also want to consider Utah State University’s social work program. While not solely focused on substance use disorders, this program gives students the chance to do their practicums at public substance use disorder treatment agencies. Students who agree to work at a public agency for a year after graduation can get $5,000 of funding during their senior year.
When evaluating programs, consider factors like:
- Accreditation status and DOPL recognition
- Practicum placement assistance and partnerships with local agencies
- Online vs. campus-based options for your schedule
- Faculty expertise in substance use disorder treatment
- Program costs, financial aid availability, and completion rates
- Preparation for your chosen licensing exam
Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions
Department of Counseling
Accreditation: NWCCU
Online w/ limited residency
Master’s Degrees
- MS in Addictions Counseling
Graduate Certificates
- Post-Master’s Certificate in Addictions Counseling
University of Utah
College of Social Work
Accreditation: NWCCU
Campus, Online
Undergraduate Certificates
- Substance Use Disorder Counselor Certificate
- Advanced Substance Use Disorder Counselor Certificate
Utah Valley University
College of Humanities and Social Sciences, Department of Behavioral Science
Accreditation: NWCCU
Campus, Online
Undergraduate Certificates
- Certificate of Proficiency-Substance Use Disorder Counseling
- Certificate of Proficiency-Advanced Substance Use Disorder Counseling
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a substance abuse counselor in Utah?
The complete pathway from starting your bachelor’s degree to earning your Licensed ASUDC typically takes 3.5 to 5 years. This includes 4 years for your bachelor’s degree (with your 350-hour practicum integrated, including 150 clinical hours), registration as an SUDC, and 3-12 months to complete 500 supervised experience hours. Many students accelerate this timeline by beginning their supervised hours during their final year of school, which can reduce the total time to closer to 3.5 years.
What’s the difference between SUDC and ASUDC in Utah?
An SUDC (Substance Use Disorder Counselor) requires an associate degree and 200 education hours, while an ASUDC (Advanced Substance Use Disorder Counselor) requires a bachelor’s degree and 300 education hours. Licensed ASUDCs are licensed to treat co-occurring mental health disorders once diagnosed by a mental health professional, giving them a broader scope of practice. However, ASUDCs cannot independently diagnose mental health conditions. Licensed ASUDCs also qualify for higher salaries and more advanced positions compared to SUDCs.
How much do substance abuse counselors make in Utah?
The median salary for substance abuse counselors in Utah is $65,920 as of May 2024. Entry-level counselors typically start around $34,560, while experienced counselors can earn upwards of $111,470. Salaries vary based on credential level, work setting, geographic location, and areas of specialization. Salt Lake City offers slightly higher wages than other areas of the state.
Can I become a counselor with just an associate’s degree?
Yes, you can become a registered SUDC with an associate’s degree, 200 hours of education, and a 200-hour practicum. However, to advance to a Licensed ASUDC (the standard professional credential), you’ll need a bachelor’s degree and an additional 500 supervised experience hours. The Licensed ASUDC credential offers greater autonomy, higher earning potential, and the ability to work with co-occurring mental health disorders.
Which licensing exam is easiest to pass?
Most Utah counselors find the NAADAC Level II exam the most accessible option. It requires a passing score of 67% (100 out of 150 questions) and offers both in-person and remote testing options. The MAC exam requires a score of 75% to pass (112 questions), while the IC&RC AADC uses an 800-point scale with 500 as the passing score. The best choice depends on your career goals and study preferences.
Does Utah require continuing education for license renewal?
Yes, Utah requires ASUDCs to complete continuing education hours to maintain their license. Contact the DOPL or check their website for current CE requirements, as these are subject to change. Most counselors need to complete ethics training, clinical updates, and specialized topic courses every renewal period.
Key Takeaways
- Utah offers five credential levels, with Licensed ASUDC being the standard professional license, which requires a bachelor’s degree, 300 education hours, and 500 supervised experience hours.
- The entire process from starting your bachelor’s degree to earning your Licensed ASUDC typically takes 3.5-5 years. Students who overlap their practicum and supervised hours during school can complete the pathway in closer to 3.5 years, while those taking a more traditional sequential approach may take up to 5 years.
- You have three national exam options (NAADAC Level II, NAADAC MAC, or IC&RC AADC), with most Utah counselors choosing NAADAC Level II for its 67% pass rate and remote testing option.n
- Licensed ASUDCs in Utah earn a median salary of $62,870, with entry-level counselors starting around $32,820 and experienced professionals making up to $106,390
- The 2024 introduction of the MAC license creates a clear advancement pathway for counselors with master’s degrees who want to provide advanced psychotherapeutic treatment.
- Major employment hubs include Salt Lake City, Provo-Orem Metro, and St. George, with opportunities in hospitals, nonprofits, government agencies, and private practices.
Ready to Start Your Path to Becoming a Substance Abuse Counselor?
Explore accredited degree programs and discover the ideal educational pathway for your career goals. Our comprehensive guide breaks down program options, costs, and specializations to help you make an informed decision.
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.
