Arizona offers three substance abuse counselor credentials that can be achieved progressively: Licensed Substance Abuse Technician (LSAT) with an associate’s degree, Licensed Associate Substance Abuse Counselor (LASAC) with a bachelor’s degree and 3,200 supervised hours, and Licensed Independent Substance Abuse Counselor (LISAC) with a master’s degree, which allows for independent practice. All credentials require passing IC&RC or NAADAC exams and applying through the Arizona State Board of Behavioral Health Examiners.
Table of Contents
- Understanding Arizona’s Three-Tier Credential System
- Steps to Becoming Certified as a Substance Abuse Counselor in Arizona
- LSAT vs. LASAC vs. LISAC: Complete Comparison
- Cost and Timeline Breakdown
- Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Arizona
- Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Phoenix, Tucson, and Flagstaff, Arizona
- Substance Abuse Counselor Degree Options in Arizona
- Frequently Asked Questions
The flow of illegal drugs in Arizona has left devastation in its wake. Fentanyl drives opioid fatalities here, which were up a mind-blowing 80 percent between 2018 and 2022. Easier to traffic, cheaper, and more potent than many other illicit drugs, fentanyl is on everyone’s radar here, including the Drug Enforcement Administration. In fact, the DEA reports that most fentanyl enters the US through southwest border ports of entry, but exact Arizona-specific figures are not broken out. Of all the opioid deaths reported in Arizona in 2021, a shocking 94 percent involved synthetics like fentanyl.
But in the midst of this devastation, there is hope in the form of programs and services for those affected by substance use disorder. Professionals in the field, like Licensed Associate Substance Abuse Counselors (LASAC) and Licensed Independent Substance Abuse Counselors (LISAC), are working tirelessly alongside advocates and legislators to tackle Arizona’s drug epidemic and provide hope for those suffering from substance use disorder.
From major metro areas like Phoenix and Tucson to the smallest of suburbs, opportunities to become part of the solution to Arizona’s drug crisis are widespread and growing. Whether you’re lending your talents to hospital systems, state-run inpatient and outpatient treatment centers, correctional facilities, or independently owned and managed private practices, becoming a substance abuse counselor in Arizona means making a difference in the lives of those struggling with addiction and their loved ones.
Drug Overdose Deaths Reach New Highs, Creating a Greater Urgency for Skilled Substance Use Disorder Treatment Professionals
Meth contributed to 1,200 deaths statewide in 2021, while fentanyl was responsible for about 1,300 deaths. In Phoenix and throughout Maricopa County, nearly two-thirds of all the drug fatalities in the state happened during this time.
Tucson is also fighting its own battle with illegal drugs and addiction. In recent years, narcotics investigators have seized hundreds of pounds of “super meth,” the super-potent and pure meth being produced in Mexican drug labs. In 2021, Pima County reported nearly 500 overdose deaths, many of which were caused by a mixture of opioids and stimulants, including meth.
In Mesa, fentanyl pills are flooding the streets. Overdose deaths in Mesa rose significantly between 2017 and 2021, in line with statewide trends. Mesa Fire and Medical now responds to as many as 200 opioid overdose calls every month.
Understanding Arizona’s Three-Tier Credential System
Arizona is unique among states in offering a clearly defined three-tier credentialing pathway for substance abuse counselors. This progressive system allows you to enter the field at an associate level and advance as you gain education and experience. Each credential level expands your practice rights and career opportunities.
The three credentials are designed to be achieved consecutively; however, you can fast-track to higher levels by completing advanced degrees first. Understanding these credentials and how they build upon each other is essential for planning your educational path and career trajectory.
Steps to Becoming Certified as a Substance Abuse Counselor in Arizona
The Arizona State Board of Behavioral Health Examiners credentials substance abuse counselors in the state of Arizona. Arizona offers three credentials that are usually achieved consecutively:
- Licensed Substance Abuse Technician (LSAT) – associate-level credential
- Licensed Associate Substance Abuse Counselor (LASAC) – bachelor’s-level credential
- Licensed Independent Substance Abuse Counselor (LISAC) – master’s-level credential (can practice independently, without supervision)
All three certification levels are permitted to perform substance abuse counseling services. Hiring preference is often given to counselors with LISAC credentials since they have the legal authority to diagnose and provide clinical services without oversight.
Note: You can skip many of these steps on your way to earning LISAC certification if you already hold or choose to earn more advanced degrees. Here, we outline all the required steps to provide a clear progression from one credential to the next, and have also included a helpful tip. Sections throughout provide options for fast-tracking LISAC certification.
- If you’re just getting started without having completed any college, start with Step 1 if you’re interested in an associate degree and entry-level certification. If you’re interested in a bachelor’s degree or more advanced certification, skip to Step 4.
- If you already hold an associate degree, start with Step 4.
- If you already hold a bachelor’s degree, review Step 6.
Here are the steps you’ll need to take to work your way through the credentialing system and become a Licensed Independent Substance Abuse Counselor (LISAC) and provide substance abuse counseling services on an independent basis:
Complete Certification Pathway Overview
- Earn a Minimum of an Associate Degree in a Behavioral Health Science Field
- Apply for LSAT Certification
- Take and Pass an Approved Exam
- Earn a Bachelor’s or Higher Degree in an Approved Behavioral Health Science Field and Begin Accruing Experience
- Apply for LASAC Certification
- Earn a Master’s Degree and Apply for LISAC Certification
Arizona’s credentialing process to become a substance abuse counselor can be complex. We’re here to make the process easier with step-by-step instructions so that you can move ahead with confidence.
1. Earn a Minimum of an Associate Degree in a Behavioral Health Science Field
To enter the field as a substance abuse counselor in Arizona, you’ll first complete a two-year associate degree or higher in a behavioral health science field. Your degree must include at least three semesters in the following core content areas:
- Psychopharmacology
- Models of treatment and relapse prevention
- Group work
- Co-occurring disorders
- Ethics
- Assessment, diagnosis, and treatment
You may choose to complete an associate or bachelor’s degree program from a regionally accredited college or university. If you choose a program accredited by NASAC, you can be confident that you will meet the coursework requirements for certification.
Tip! While you’ll only need to earn an associate degree to qualify for the entry-level Licensed Substance Abuse Technician (LSAT) designation, if you earn a bachelor’s degree, you’ll be well-positioned to earn the Licensed Associate Substance Abuse Counselor (LASAC) designation (see Step 4) after earning LSAT certification.
2. Apply for LSAT Certification
Once you’ve completed the required education, you’ll apply to become a Licensed Substance Abuse Technician (LSAT), the profession’s entry-level credential. All applicants must apply through Boardal, the application portal for the Board of Behavioral Health Examiners. Once the board has approved your application, they’ll send you approval to take the exam and provide you with instructions for registering.
3. Take and Pass an Approved Exam
Once you’ve received approval from the board, you must take and pass one of the following exams:
- International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC) Alcohol and Drug Counselor Exam (ADC), or Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor exam (AADC), or
- National Association for Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC) – Level I or II
Both IC&RC and NAADAC are nationally recognized organizations that offer substance abuse counselor certification and reciprocity agreements with many states.
Tip! Though you can qualify for LSAT certification by taking and passing either the IC&RC’s ADC exam or the NAADAC’s Level I exam, if you take and pass the advanced IC&RC’s AADC exam or the NAADAC’s Level II exam, you won’t need to take and pass these exams when applying for LASAC certification. If Level I or ADC was already taken for LSAT, the advanced exam must still be passed for LASAC.
4. Earn a Bachelor’s or Higher Degree in an Approved Behavioral Health Science Field and Begin Accruing Experience
You must earn a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in an approved behavioral health field and accrue a minimum of 3,200 hours of supervised work experience in substance abuse counseling to transition from the LSAT credential to the Licensed Associate Substance Abuse Counselor (LASAC) credential.
If you’ve already earned a board-approved bachelor’s degree in substance abuse or addiction counseling or one that NASAC accredits, you can now begin accruing the required experience hours.
Suppose you qualified for the LSAT credential through an associate degree program. In that case, you’ll need to continue your education and earn a NASAC-accredited or board-approved bachelor’s degree in behavioral health science.
Tip! Suppose you earn a master’s degree in an approved behavioral health science program that includes a supervised practicum of at least 300 hours. In that case, you can skip LASAC certification and earn LISAC certification once you complete the required experience hours and take either the IC&RC AADC exam or NAADAC’s Level II exam (see Step 6).
The college or university where you earned your bachelor’s degree will be an excellent resource for finding employment as an LSAT and begin accruing the 3,200 hours of supervised work experience in substance abuse counseling you’ll need for LASAC certification. You must complete this experience in no less than 24 months. Your work experience must include:
- At least 1,600 hours of direct client contact involving the use of psychotherapy related to substance use disorder and addiction issues
- No more than 400 hours of direct client contact in psychoeducation
- At least 100 hours of clinical supervision
- At least one hour of clinical supervision in any month where you provide direct client contact
5. Apply for LASAC Certification
Suppose you qualified for LSAT certification through the IC&RC AADC exam or the NAADAC’s Level II exam and have earned a recognized bachelor’s degree. In that case, you’ll have everything you need to apply for LASAC certification after satisfying the required experience hours.
Otherwise, you’ll need to apply for LASAC certification and then pass the required exam before your LASAC credential can be issued (See Step 3).
6. Earn a Master’s Degree and Apply for LISAC Certification
Suppose you want to practice independently as a substance abuse counselor in Arizona without any oversight or formal supervision. In that case, you’ll need to earn certification as a Licensed Independent Substance Abuse Counselor (LISAC).
To qualify for the LISAC designation, you must complete an NASAC-accredited or board-approved behavioral health science master’s degree program that includes a supervised practicum of at least 300 hours.
If you hold LASAC certification, you will qualify for LISAC certification once you complete an approved master’s degree.
Suppose you completed a master’s degree, but do not have LASAC certification. In that case, you’ll need to complete the required experience hours and pass the required exam before your LISAC credential can be issued.
All three levels of substance abuse certifications – LSAT, LASAC, LISAC – must be renewed every two years upon the completion of at least 30 clock hours of continuing education.
LSAT vs. LASAC vs. LISAC: Complete Comparison
Understanding the differences between Arizona’s three credential levels helps you plan your educational path and set realistic career goals. This comparison outlines the requirements at each level and the associated practice rights you gain.
| Credential | Education Required | Supervised Hours | Exam Options | Practice Rights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LSAT (Licensed Substance Abuse Technician) | Associate degree in behavioral health science with 3 semesters in core areas | None for initial certification | IC&RC ADC or NAADAC Level I | Counseling services under supervision |
| LASAC (Licensed Associate Substance Abuse Counselor) | Bachelor’s degree in the approved behavioral health field | 3,200 hours (minimum 24 months), including 1,600 direct client contact hours | IC&RC AADC or NAADAC Level II | Clinical services under supervision, expanded counseling roles |
| LISAC (Licensed Independent Substance Abuse Counselor) | Master’s degree with 300-hour supervised practicum | Included in master’s practicum (300 hours minimum) | IC&RC AADC or NAADAC Level II (if not already passed) | Independent practice, diagnosis authority, clinical supervision of others, no oversight required |
Key Insight: The LISAC credential is the only one that allows you to practice independently without supervision. This makes it the most valuable credential for career flexibility, higher earning potential, and opportunities in private practice.
Cost and Timeline Breakdown by Educational Path
Understanding the financial investment and time commitment for each credential level helps you make informed decisions about your educational path. Costs vary depending on whether you attend a public or private institution, as well as whether you study online or on campus.
Associate Degree Path (LSAT)
Timeline: 2 years
Estimated Costs:
- Community college tuition: $2,000-$8,000 per year (Arizona residents)
- Books and materials: $1,000-$1,500 total
- LSAT application fee: $150-$300
- Exam fee (IC&RC or NAADAC): $195-$395
- Total estimated investment: $5,500-$18,500
Bachelor’s Degree Path (LASAC)
Timeline: 4 years (or 2 years if you already have an associate degree) + 24 months supervised experience (can overlap with education)
Estimated Costs:
- Public university tuition: $10,000-$12,000 per year (Arizona residents)
- Private university tuition: $25,000-$40,000 per year
- Books and materials: $1,000-$1,500 per year
- LASAC application fee: $150-$300
- Advanced exam fee (IC&RC AADC or NAADAC Level II): $195-$395
- Total estimated investment: $45,000-$165,000 (4 years at public or private institution)
Master’s Degree Path (LISAC)
Timeline: 6-8 years total (bachelor’s + master’s) or 2 years for master’s only if bachelor’s already completed
Estimated Costs:
- Public university master’s tuition: $15,000-$25,000 total program
- Private university master’s tuition: $40,000-$70,000 total program
- Books and materials: $1,500-$2,500 total
- LISAC application fee: $150-$300
- Exam fee if not already passed: $195-$395
- Master’s program investment: $17,000-$73,000
- Total investment from bachelor’s to LISAC: $62,000-$238,000
Fast-Track Options
If you already hold a bachelor’s degree in another field, you can complete a master’s degree in addiction counseling and skip the associate and bachelor ‘s-level credentials entirely. This is the fastest path to LISAC certification, taking just 2-3 years from your current starting point.
Online programs often offer more flexibility and potentially lower costs, with many Arizona universities offering fully online or hybrid formats for addiction counseling degrees.
Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Arizona
The demand for substance abuse counselors in Arizona is expected to remain strong in the coming years, highlighting countless opportunities for those entering or advancing in the field. According to the US Department of Labor, jobs for substance abuse counselors in Arizona are expected to grow by 54 percent in the decade leading up to 2030 – one of the highest rates nationally for this field, as reported by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. During these ten years, the state can expect approximately 1,170 annual job openings in the field, resulting from a combination of new job creation, retirements, and natural job turnover.
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) 2020 National Survey of Substance Abuse Treatment Services, the number of substance abuse treatment facilities in Arizona more than doubled between 2011 and 2020, from 219 to 447. In 2020 alone, Arizona’s substance abuse treatment facilities treated nearly 45,000 people.
Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Phoenix, Tucson, and Throughout Arizona
According to CDC stats, Pima and Maricopa Counties ranked among the state’s highest for their share of opioid overdose deaths between September 2022 and August 2023. In Pima County (Tucson), the rate of opioid overdose deaths was 47.2 deaths per 100,000 people. In Maricopa County (Phoenix, Mesa, Scottsdale), it was 41.2 deaths per 100,000 people, both of which surpassed the national rate of 32.2 deaths per 100,000 people during this time.
Job opportunities for substance abuse counselors are plentiful throughout Arizona. The Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS), Arizona’s Medicaid program, has four 24/7 Access Point Counseling centers that provide immediate treatment for individuals, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. These community facilities offer medication-assisted treatment, counseling, and referrals:
- CODAC Health, Recovery, and Wellness, Tucson
- Community Bridges, East Valley Addiction Recovery Center, Mesa
- Community Medical Services, Phoenix
- Intensive Treatment Systems, West Clinic, Phoenix
You’ll also find a wealth of other private and nonprofit inpatient and outpatient programs throughout the state. For example, Arizona Women’s Recovery Center in Tucson is a nonprofit that offers outpatient substance abuse treatment services for women. In contrast, Positive Pathways in Phoenix offers medication-assisted programs and outpatient rehab programs.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Phoenix, Tucson, and Flagstaff, Arizona
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Arizona’s substance abuse counselors earned a starting salary of about $45,410 (25th percentile), a median salary of $58,640, and a top salary of about $82,740 (90th percentile) as of May 2024.
Salaries vary by location within Arizona, with some metro areas offering higher compensation:
- Phoenix (includes Mesa and Scottsdale): $46,740 (25th percentile) – $59,660 (median) – $83,620 (90th percentile)
- Tucson: $40,670 (25th percentile) – $51,790 (median) – $79,490 (90th percentile)
- Flagstaff: $50,030 (25th percentile) – $61,540 (median) – $86,160 (90th percentile)
Your credential level significantly impacts your earning potential. LISAC-credentialed counselors with master’s degrees typically earn at the higher end of these ranges and have access to more advanced positions, private practice opportunities, and clinical supervisor roles. Entry-level LSAT counselors generally start near the 25th percentile, while experienced LASAC and LISAC counselors progress toward median and higher salary ranges.
Substance Abuse Counselor Degree Options in Arizona
Because Arizona has three levels of certification options, all of which have different degree requirements, you’ll find a wealth of degree programs in the behavioral health fields in Arizona offered at the associate, bachelor’s, and master’s levels.
For example, Mohave Community College’s AA in Substance Abuse Counseling is accredited by NASAC and therefore meets the education requirements to become an LSCA in Arizona. Similarly, Ottawa University, based in Kansas, has a satellite campus in Surprise that offers both a BS and an MA in Addiction Counseling, which meet the requirements for LASAC and LISAC certification.
Below are featured programs from Arizona institutions offering substance abuse counseling degrees:
Arizona State University
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
Accreditation: HLC
Campus, Online
Bachelor’s Degrees
- BS in Counseling and Applied Psychological Science-Substance Abuse and Addictions concentration
Master’s Degrees
- MS in Addiction Psychology
Graduate Certificates
- Graduate Certificate-Addiction and Counseling Use Related Disorders
Grand Canyon University
College of Humanities and Social Sciences
Accreditation: HLC
Campus, Online
Bachelor’s Degrees
- BS in Counseling with an emphasis in Addiction, Chemical Dependency, and Substance Abuse
Master’s Degrees
- MS in Addiction Counseling
- MS in Christian Counseling of Substance Use and Addictive Disorders
- Post-MS in Counseling-Addiction Counseling Certificate
Graduate Certificates
- Post MS in Counseling-Addiction Counseling Certificate
Mohave Community College
Health and Public Services Division
Accreditation: HLC
Online
Undergraduate Certificates
- Substance Abuse Counseling Post-Degree Certificate
Associate Degrees
- AA in Substance Abuse Counseling
Rio Salado College
Behavioral Science and Human Services Field of Interest
Accreditation: HLC
Campus, Online
Undergraduate Certificates
- Certificate of Completion (CCL) in Substance Use Prevention and Interventions
- CCL in Workforce Development-Foundations in Addictions and Substance Use Disorders
- CCL in Addictions and Substance Use Disorders Level I
- CCL in Addictions and Substance Use Disorders Level II
- CCL in Professional Addictions Counseling
Associate Degrees
- AAS in Addictions and Substance Use Disorders
- AA with an emphasis in Counseling and Applied Psychological Science
Tohono O’odham Community College
Accreditation: HLC
Campus
Undergraduate Certificates
- Certificate in Substance Abuse and Addiction Studies
Associate Degrees
- Credits from the certificate can be applied towards an AA in Social Work
Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Substance Abuse Counselor in Arizona
What’s the difference between LSAT, LASAC, and LISAC credentials in Arizona?
LSAT (Licensed Substance Abuse Technician) is an entry-level credential that requires an associate’s degree and allows you to provide counseling under supervision. A Licensed Associate Substance Abuse Counselor (LASAC) requires a bachelor’s degree and 3,200 supervised hours, offering expanded clinical roles that are still under supervision. A Licensed Independent Substance Abuse Counselor (LISAC) requires a master’s degree and is the only credential that allows for independent practice without oversight, including the authority to diagnose and supervise others.
How long does it take to become a LISAC in Arizona?
The timeline depends on your starting point. If you’re beginning with no college degree, expect 6-8 years total: 4 years for a bachelor’s degree, 2 years for a master’s degree (which includes the required practicum hours). Suppose you already hold a bachelor’s degree in a field other than the one you are interested in. In that case, you can complete a master’s in addiction counseling in 2-3 years and skip the associate and bachelor’s-level credentials entirely, making this the fastest path to LISAC certification.
Can I practice as a substance abuse counselor in Arizona with just an LSAT certification?
Yes, you can provide substance abuse counseling services with an LSAT credential, but you must work under the supervision of a licensed professional. Many treatment facilities hire LSAT-credentialed counselors for entry-level positions. While you can legally practice with LSAT certification alone, hiring preference is often given to counselors with LASAC or LISAC credentials due to their expanded scope of practice and higher level of training.
Do I need to retake the certification exam at each credential level?
Not necessarily. If you take and pass the advanced IC&RC AADC exam or NAADAC Level II exam for your LSAT certification, you won’t need to retake it for LASAC or LISAC certification. However, suppose you initially passed the IC&RC ADC or NAADAC Level I exam for LSAT. In that case, you’ll need to take and pass the advanced exam (AADC or Level II) when applying for LASAC certification.
Can I work while completing my 3,200 supervised hours for LASAC?
Yes, you should be working in a substance abuse counseling position to accrue your supervised hours. The 3,200 hours must be completed through paid or volunteer work in a clinical setting over a minimum of 24 months. Most counselors work full-time in treatment facilities, hospitals, or counseling centers while accumulating these hours. Your employer or practicum site will typically help you connect with an approved clinical supervisor.
Does Arizona accept out-of-state substance abuse counselor licenses?
Arizona participates in reciprocity agreements through IC&RC, which may allow you to transfer credentials from another state if you hold IC&RC certification. However, you’ll still need to apply through the Arizona State Board of Behavioral Health Examiners and may need to meet additional state-specific requirements. Contact the board directly to determine if your out-of-state credential qualifies for Arizona licensure through reciprocity.
How much more can I earn with a LISAC compared to an LSAT?
LISAC-credentialed counselors with master’s degrees typically earn significantly more than entry-level LSAT counselors. In Arizona, substance abuse counselors earn between $45,410 (25th percentile) and $82,740 (90th percentile). Entry-level LSAT counselors typically start at the lower end of the salary scale. In contrast, experienced LISAC counselors can progress to higher salary ranges and have access to private practice opportunities, clinical supervisor positions, and specialized roles that command premium compensation.
What happens if I complete a master’s degree but don’t have LASAC certification?
You can still apply for LISAC certification even if you skipped LASAC. However, you’ll need to ensure your master’s program includes a supervised practicum of at least 300 hours and that you’ve passed the required advanced exam (IC&RC AADC or NAADAC Level II). If you haven’t taken the advanced exam, you’ll need to pass it before your LISAC credential can be issued. This fast-track option is ideal for career changers who already hold a bachelor’s degree in a field other than their desired field.
Key Takeaways
- Arizona offers three progressive credentials: LSAT (associate level), LASAC (bachelor’s level), and LISAC (master’s level for independent practice)
- LISAC certification requires a master’s degree with a 300-hour practicum, passing the IC&RC AADC or NAADAC Level II exam, and allows independent practice without supervision
- LASAC certification requires 3,200 supervised hours (minimum 24 months) with at least 1,600 direct client contact hours
- Arizona substance abuse counselors earn median salaries of $58,640 statewide, with Flagstaff offering the highest median at $61,540
- Job growth for substance abuse counselors in Arizona is projected at 54 percent through 2030, one of the highest rates nationally.
- NASAC-accredited programs automatically meet state education requirements for certification.n
Ready to Start Your LISAC Journey in Arizona?
Explore accredited substance abuse counseling programs that meet Arizona’s certification requirements. Compare associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degree options to find the right pathway for your career goals.
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.
