To become a substance abuse counselor in Missouri, complete 180 contact hours of education, gain 1,000-4,000 supervised experience hours based on your degree level, apply through the Missouri Credentialing Board, and pass the IC&RC ADC exam. Timeline ranges from 1.5 years with a master’s degree to 4+ years with a high school diploma.
Table of Contents
- Missouri’s Substance Abuse Crisis
- Steps to Becoming Certified in Missouri
- Education Requirements and Degree Options
- Practicum and Supervised Experience
- MCB Application Process
- Passing the IC&RC ADC Exam
- Advanced Certification Options
- Timeline and Cost Breakdown
- Job Opportunities in Missouri
- Salary Information
- Degree Programs
- Frequently Asked Questions
Missouri’s Substance Abuse Crisis: Why Your Role Matters
Missouri is grappling with a devastating substance abuse crisis that demands immediate action. Drug overdoses have become the leading cause of death among adults aged 18-44 in the state.
Take a minute to let that sink in.
In 2022 alone, Missouri saw 2,178 overdose deaths, continuing an unsettling upward trend from recent years. Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid up to 50 times stronger than heroin, was involved in a staggering 70% of these deaths. This isn’t just a statistic. It represents thousands of families torn apart, communities struggling to cope, and a healthcare system stretched to its limits.
The Kansas City metro area experienced the highest increase in overdose deaths, while Mid-Missouri offered a ray of hope with an 8% decrease in fatalities during the same period. This shows that intervention works when communities have adequate resources and trained professionals.
The impact of this crisis cuts across all demographics and regions. Stimulants, often used in combination with opioids, are compounding the problem and contributing to the rise in overdose deaths. Rural areas face unique challenges with limited access to treatment facilities and qualified counselors.
In the face of these grim statistics, the role of Missouri’s Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselors (CADCs) becomes even more critical. These professionals are on the front lines, providing essential support and treatment to those struggling with addiction. They help individuals navigate the challenging path to recovery, offering a lifeline during a crisis.
For those passionate about making a difference, the path to becoming a substance abuse counselor in Missouri is both challenging and rewarding. It involves rigorous training, supervised work experience, and a dedication to ongoing education. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, from initial education to advanced certification options.
Steps to Becoming Certified as a Substance Abuse Counselor in Missouri
The Missouri Credentialing Board (MCB) is a nonprofit professional association that certifies substance abuse counselors in the state. The MCB grants various certification levels to front-line counselors and supervisors based on experience and education.
Missouri offers these credential levels:
- Missouri Associate Alcohol Drug Counselor I (MAADCI)
- Missouri Associate Alcohol Drug Counselor II (MAADCII)
- Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor (CADC)
- Certified Reciprocal Alcohol & Drug Counselor (CRADC)
- Certified Reciprocal Advanced Alcohol & Drug Counselor (CRAADC)
To build toward a career in professional practice that involves the diagnosis and treatment of substance use disorder, the Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor (CADC) certification is where you’ll be setting your sights. This credential allows you to work independently with clients and opens doors to supervisory positions as you gain experience.
Four Main Steps to CADC Certification:
1. Complete 180 Contact Hours of Substance Use Disorder Education
2. Complete a 300-Hour Supervised Practicum and Supervised Work Experience
3. Apply for CADC Certification through the Missouri Credentialing Board
4. Pass the IC&RC Alcohol and Drug Counselor (ADC) Exam
Embarking on a career as a substance abuse counselor in Missouri is a rewarding journey. It might look a bit overwhelming at first, but with this straightforward guidance, you’ll find the process much simpler. Let’s break down each step in detail.
Step 1: Complete 180 Contact Hours of Education
Holding a degree or earning one in preparation to become a CADC is quite standard, but it’s not a state-mandated requirement. In plenty of cases, though, employers prefer candidates who have qualified through a combination of earning a degree in substance abuse counseling or a related field and gaining the required real-world experience.
Gaining a significant amount of on-the-job experience is a given when becoming a CADC, but the requirement will be lowered based on the degree you hold:
- With a high school diploma: 4,000 hours (2 years) of documented work experience
- With an associate degree: 3,000 hours (1.5 years) of documented work experience
- With a bachelor’s degree: 2,000 hours (1 year) of documented work experience
- With a master’s degree: 1,000 hours (6 months) of documented work experience
At any level, degrees in these behavioral health and human services fields qualify to reduce the documented experience hours:
- Psychology
- Social Work
- Criminal Justice
- Family Studies
- Communication
- Sociology
- Chemical Dependency
- Counseling
- Nursing
- Human Services
- Art Therapy
- Applied Behavioral Science
- Education
In all cases, you’ll additionally need to complete a minimum of 180 contact hours of education (about four courses), including six hours in ethics. 15 contact hours equal 1 college credit.
It’s easy to complete these courses. The MCB maintains a list of online agencies and schools offering a course sequence specifically designed to satisfy CADC certification requirements.
Why Earning a Degree Makes Sense
While a full degree program isn’t necessary to earn CADC certification, pursuing an associate degree, bachelor’s degree, or master’s degree may prove helpful for more reasons than just the reduced work experience requirements:
- Degree programs will include the required 300-hour practicum (described below)
- Earning a degree allows you to reduce the amount of work experience and training required after you graduate
- Most colleges and universities offer job placement services that will help you secure a position in substance abuse counseling, where you can begin accruing experience hours
- A degree provides deeper theoretical knowledge and research skills that enhance clinical practice
- Higher degrees open pathways to advanced credentials, supervision roles, and private practice
- Many employers prefer or require degree-holding candidates for competitive positions
Step 2: Complete Practicum and Supervised Experience
Once you’ve completed the 180 contact hours, you’ll need to gain practical experience that demonstrates competence in the four IC&RC performance domains: Clinical Evaluation, Treatment Planning, Referral, and Service Coordination. This is achieved through a combination of supervised work experience and a 300-hour practicum.
Understanding the 300-Hour Practicum
The practicum is a structured, supervised training experience where you work directly with clients under the guidance of a qualified supervisor. This isn’t just job shadowing. You’ll conduct intake assessments, participate in treatment planning, facilitate group sessions, and document client progress.
If you qualify for CADC certification with just a high school diploma, you’ll need to complete a 300-hour practicum, followed by at least 4,000 hours (about two years) of work experience. That means reaching out to prospective employers interested in training new counselors or enrolling in a certificate program that includes practicum placement.
But if you earn a degree in one of the fields listed above, you’ll be able to complete the 300-hour practicum as part of your degree program AND qualify for certification with fewer experience hours:
- Associate Degree or 1-Year Addiction Certificate Program: 3,000 hours (1.5 years)
- Bachelor’s Degree: 2,000 hours (1 year)
- Master’s Degree: 1,000 hours (6 months)
Finding a Practicum Placement
If you’re not enrolled in a degree program, finding a practicum placement requires some legwork. Contact treatment centers, hospitals, community mental health centers, and corrections facilities in your area. Many are eager to train new counselors and will provide the structured supervision required.
Your practicum site must have an MCB-approved supervisor on staff. This supervisor will evaluate your competence across the IC&RC domains and complete the required MCB documentation.
Supervised Work Experience Requirements
Regardless of your educational background, all work experience must meet these criteria:
- Acquired within the past 10 years
- Performed under a qualified MCB-approved supervisor
- Documented with detailed logs showing dates, hours, activities, and supervision received
- Includes direct client contact in substance abuse treatment settings
Your supervisor must hold a current CADC, CRADC, or CRAADC credential and have at least two years of experience. They’ll provide regular oversight, review your clinical work, and complete competency evaluations.
What to Expect During Your Experience Hours
During your supervised experience, you’ll develop skills in:
- Conducting comprehensive biopsychosocial assessments
- Developing individualized treatment plans based on client needs
- Facilitating individual and group counseling sessions
- Implementing evidence-based treatment modalities
- Documenting client progress and maintaining accurate records
- Making appropriate referrals to medical, psychiatric, and social services
- Conducting crisis intervention and safety planning
- Collaborating with multidisciplinary treatment teams
Step 3: Apply for CADC Certification
Once you’ve completed the required education and work experience, you’re ready to apply for your CADC certification with the MCB. The application process requires careful attention to detail and thorough documentation.
Application Requirements
Download and complete the CADC application form from the MCB website, ensuring all sections are accurate and complete. Submit the completed application along with:
- $400 application fee (check MCB website for current fee)
- Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended
- Work experience verification forms signed by your supervisor(s)
- Supervised practicum form documenting your 300 hours
- Competency rating form completed by your MCB-qualified supervisor
- Proof of 180 contact hours of education with course descriptions
- Signed MCB Code of Ethical Practice and Professional Conduct
The MCB will review your application and documents, typically within two weeks. If additional information is needed, you’ll have 90 days to provide it. Upon approval, you’ll receive instructions to register for the certification exam.
Maintaining Your CADC Credential
The CADC credential must be renewed biennially. The first renewal requires 20 CE hours (6 in ethics). Subsequent renewals require 40 hours, with at least 6 in ethics.
It’s important to note that the CADC credential is only valid in Missouri and is not reciprocal with other states. If you plan to practice in other states, you’ll need to pursue the CRADC or CRAADC credentials, which offer reciprocity through the IC&RC consortium.
Step 4: Pass the IC&RC ADC Exam
The final step to becoming a Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor (CADC) in Missouri is passing the IC&RC Alcohol and Drug Counselor (ADC) examination. This comprehensive exam tests your knowledge and competence across all aspects of substance abuse counseling.
Exam Format and Content
The ADC exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering various topics relevant to substance abuse counseling. You’ll have three hours to complete the exam. The questions are divided across the four IC&RC performance domains:
- Clinical Evaluation (assessment and diagnosis)
- Treatment Planning (developing individualized plans)
- Referral (connecting clients to appropriate services)
- Service Coordination (case management and collaboration)
Scheduling Your Exam
Once you receive approval from the MCB, you’ll schedule your exam through Prometric. You can choose either a testing center location or remote proctoring if available. On exam day, bring a valid government-issued photo ID and your Candidate Admission Letter.
Exam Preparation Strategies
Prepare for success using these resources and strategies:
- Review the official ADC Candidate Guide available from IC&RC
- Purchase IC&RC study guides and practice exams
- Join study groups with other CADC candidates
- Review your practicum and work experience notes
- Focus on evidence-based treatment modalities (CBT, motivational interviewing, trauma-informed care)
- Study diagnostic criteria from the DSM-5-TR
- Understand ethical guidelines and legal requirements
- Practice time management with timed practice tests
Understanding Your Results
After the exam, your results will be sent to the MCB. Preliminary scores are available immediately at the testing center. Official scores are sent within two to three weeks. If you pass, you’ll receive your CADC credential shortly after. If you don’t pass, you’ll receive information on retaking the exam, including waiting periods and fees.
The pass rate for first-time test-takers varies, but thorough preparation significantly improves your chances of success. Many candidates find the exam challenging but manageable with adequate study time.
Advanced Certification Options in Missouri
As you continue to gain experience and education in the field of substance abuse counseling in Missouri, advanced certification options become available. These certifications not only recognize your enhanced expertise but also open doors to higher-level positions, increased responsibilities, and potentially higher salaries.
Certified Reciprocal Alcohol & Drug Counselor (CRADC)
The CRADC certification is one of the advanced credentials you can pursue as you advance in your career. This certification is recognized reciprocally across many states through the IC&RC consortium, which adds tremendous value if you ever plan to move or work in another state.
To qualify for the CRADC, you must meet the following criteria, which vary based on your degree level:
- With a Master’s Degree: 2,000 hours (1 year) of work experience, 300 hours of supervised practicum, 300 contact hours of education
- With a Bachelor’s Degree: 4,000 hours (2 years) of work experience, 300 hours of supervised practicum, 300 contact hours of education
- With an Associate Degree: 5,000 hours (2.5 years) of work experience, 300 hours of supervised practicum, 300 contact hours of education
- With a High School Diploma/HSE: 6,000 hours (3 years) of work experience, 300 hours of supervised practicum, 300 contact hours of education
The CRADC also requires the IC&RC ADC exam, but adds higher thresholds for education and supervised experience. This credential allows you to practice in over 40 IC&RC member jurisdictions without retesting.
Certified Reciprocal Advanced Alcohol & Drug Counselor (CRAADC)
The CRAADC is another step up and requires a bachelor’s or master’s degree, along with more extensive experience. This certification is ideal for those aiming to take on supervisory or higher administrative roles in treatment programs.
To qualify for the CRAADC, you must meet these criteria:
- With a Master’s Degree: 2,000 hours (1 year) of work experience, 300 hours of supervised practicum, 300 contact hours of education
- With a Bachelor’s Degree: 4,000 hours (2 years) of work experience, 300 hours of supervised practicum, 300 contact hours of education
The CRAADC requires passing the IC&RC’s Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (AADC) exam, which tests more sophisticated clinical knowledge and supervisory competencies. This credential positions you for clinical director, program manager, and private practice roles.
Timeline and Cost Breakdown
Understanding the time and financial investment required to become a substance abuse counselor in Missouri helps you plan your career path effectively.
Timeline Comparison by Education Level
High School Diploma Path:
- 180 contact hours of education: 3-6 months
- 300-hour practicum: 2-4 months
- 4,000 hours of work experience: 2 years
- Application and exam: 1-2 months
- Total Timeline: Approximately 2.5-3 years
Associate Degree Path:
- Associate degree (includes 180 hours + practicum): 2 years
- 3,000 hours of work experience: 1.5 years
- Application and exam: 1-2 months
- Total Timeline: Approximately 3.5-4 years
Bachelor’s Degree Path:
- Bachelor’s degree (includes 180 hours + practicum): 4 years
- 2,000 hours of work experience: 1 year
- Application and exam: 1-2 months
- Total Timeline: Approximately 5-5.5 years
Master’s Degree Path:
- Bachelor’s degree: 4 years
- Master’s degree (includes 180 hours + practicum): 2 years
- 1,000 hours of work experience: 6 months
- Application and exam: 1-2 months
- Total Timeline: Approximately 6.5-7 years
Cost Analysis
Education Costs (Missouri averages):
- 180 contact hours through MCB-approved providers: $1,200-$2,500
- Associate degree at Missouri community college: $8,000-$15,000 total
- Bachelor’s degree at a Missouri public university: $30,000-$50,000 total
- Master’s degree in counseling: $20,000-$40,000 total
- Online programs may vary significantly in cost
Certification and Exam Costs:
- MCB application fee: $400
- IC&RC ADC exam: $195
- Study materials and prep courses: $150-$400
- Exam retake fee (if needed): $195
Ongoing Costs:
- Biennial credential renewal: $200
- Continuing education (20-40 hours per renewal): $300-$800
- Professional liability insurance: $200-$400 annually
Return on Investment
With median salaries for substance abuse counselors in Missouri ranging from $48,000 to $50,000, and experienced counselors earning $ 70,000 to $80,000+, most professionals recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years of certification. Advanced credentials and supervisory roles can increase earning potential by 20-30%.
Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs Throughout Missouri
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, substance abuse counselor jobs in Missouri are projected to increase by 14 percent in the years leading up to 2030. This represents ample opportunities to make your mark in this profession in the coming years.
The 14% growth rate significantly outpaces the national average for all occupations (around 4%), reflecting the urgent need for qualified addiction treatment professionals as Missouri addresses its substance abuse crisis.
Treatment Settings and Opportunities
Missouri offers diverse career opportunities across various treatment settings:
Residential Treatment Centers: Provide 24/7 care for individuals requiring intensive, structured treatment. These facilities offer the highest level of support for severe addiction cases. Counselors in residential settings conduct individual and group therapy, develop comprehensive treatment plans, and coordinate care with medical staff.
Outpatient Treatment Programs: Allow clients to receive treatment while maintaining their work and family responsibilities. Outpatient counselors provide flexible scheduling, including evening and weekend sessions. This setting requires strong organizational skills and the ability to support clients managing recovery in everyday environments.
Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) Programs: Combine counseling with FDA-approved medications like methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone. MAT programs are particularly important in addressing opioid addiction. Counselors work closely with medical providers to support medication compliance and address psychological aspects of recovery.
Hospital and Medical Settings: Many hospitals have addiction medicine departments requiring counselors to work with patients during medical detoxification and crisis intervention. These positions often involve screening emergency department patients for substance use disorders and making appropriate referrals.
Correctional Facilities: Missouri’s prisons and jails employ substance abuse counselors to address the high rates of addiction among incarcerated individuals. These challenging but rewarding positions focus on reducing recidivism and preparing inmates for successful reintegration.
Community Mental Health Centers: Provide integrated treatment for co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. These settings require counselors who understand the complex relationship between mental illness and addiction.
Notable Missouri Treatment Programs
The state offers various opportunities in urban centers like Kansas City and St. Louis, as well as in other communities across the state. For instance, the Addiction Recovery Center in Kansas City specializes in residential and outpatient treatment programs, while Bridgeway Behavioral Health in St. Louis provides complete, comprehensive care.
Some other notable programs recognized by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services include:
- Preferred Family Healthcare, St. Louis – One of Missouri’s largest behavioral health providers
- Midwest Recovery Centers, Kansas City – Offers MAT and intensive outpatient programs
- Valley Hope, Boonville – Renowned residential treatment facility with multiple Missouri locations
- Synergy Services, Parkville – Community-based outpatient and residential services
- Southeast Missouri Behavioral Health, Poplar Bluff – Serves rural communities across southeast Missouri
Rural vs. Urban Opportunities
Urban areas like Kansas City, St. Louis, Springfield, and Columbia offer the most job opportunities with competitive salaries and diverse treatment settings. However, rural Missouri faces a critical shortage of substance abuse counselors, creating excellent opportunities for professionals willing to serve these communities.
Rural positions often come with loan forgiveness programs, housing assistance, and other incentives. The National Health Service Corps offers loan repayment to counselors working in Health Professional Shortage Areas, which include many rural Missouri counties.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Missouri
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), substance abuse counselors in Missouri earned a median salary of $48,131 as of May 2023. Entry-level professionals in this field earned approximately $34,000, while highly experienced substance abuse counselors earned about $77,470.
These figures represent the middle 50% of earners. The top 10% of substance abuse counselors in Missouri can earn $80,000 or more, particularly those with advanced credentials, supervisory responsibilities, or private practice arrangements.
Regional Salary Variations
Kansas City: As of May 2023, the BLS reported a median salary of $50,981 for substance abuse counselors in Kansas City. Less experienced counselors earned about $36,820 during this time, while the top counselors earned $81,100 or more. The Kansas City metro area’s larger population and robust healthcare system support higher compensation.
St. Louis: According to the BLS, substance abuse counselors in St. Louis earned a median salary of $49,358 as of May 2023. Those with less experience earned around $36,230, while more experienced counselors earned at least $79,280. St. Louis offers numerous opportunities in both nonprofit and for-profit treatment settings.
Springfield, Missouri’s third-largest city, offers median salaries slightly below the statewide average, typically ranging from $42,000 to $47,000 for mid-career counselors. However, the lower cost of living makes these salaries competitive.
Rural Areas: While base salaries in rural Missouri may be lower ($38,000- $44,000 median), many positions offer additional benefits, such as loan repayment, housing assistance, and sign-on bonuses, to attract qualified counselors.
Factors Affecting Salary
- Credentials: CRADC and CRAADC holders typically earn 10-20% more than CADC-only counselors
- Education Level: Master’s degree holders earn 15-25% more than those with bachelor’s or associate degrees
- Experience: Salary increases significantly with years of experience, particularly after 5-10 years
- Setting: Hospital-based positions and private practice typically pay more than nonprofit agencies
- Specializations: Counselors with training in MAT, adolescent treatment, or trauma therapy command premium salaries
- Supervisory Responsibilities: Clinical supervisors and program directors earn 20-40% more than direct service providers
Substance Abuse Counselor Degree Options in Missouri
For many aspiring substance abuse counselors in Missouri, the journey begins with earning an associate degree or higher in a behavioral health field. While in-state options like the University of Missouri, Missouri State University, and community colleges throughout the state offer relevant programs, many out-of-state colleges and universities also provide online programs that meet the requirements for reduced practice hours in preparation to become a CADC.
These programs equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue certification through the Missouri Credentialing Board (MCB). The MCB recognizes degrees in fields like psychology, social work, and human services, giving you a variety of academic paths to choose from on your way to becoming a substance abuse counselor in Missouri.
City Vision University
The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences
Accreditation: DEAC
Online
Undergraduate Certificates
- Certificate in Addiction Counseling
Associate Degrees
- Associate’s Degree in Addiction Counseling
Bachelor’s Degrees
- Bachelor’s Degree in Addiction Counseling
Master’s Degrees
- Master’s in Addiction Counseling (Clinical Addiction Counseling Concentration, Christian Recovery Ministry Concentration, Pre-LPC Concentration)
Graduate Certificates
- Graduate Certificate in Addiction Counseling
Drury University
Drury GO (Global Online)
Accreditation: HLC
Online
Undergraduate Certificates
- Certificate in Substance Use and Behavioral Addictions
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become a CADC in Missouri?
The timeline varies based on your education level. With a master’s degree, you can complete requirements in as little as 1.5-2 years. With a bachelor’s degree, expect 2-2.5 years. An associate degree path takes 3.5-4 years, while starting with a high school diploma requires 2.5-3 years. These timelines include education, practicum, work experience, and the application/exam process.
Do I need a degree to become certified in Missouri?
No, a degree is not required for CADC certification in Missouri. You can qualify with a high school diploma plus 180 contact hours of addiction counseling education. That said, holding a degree reduces the required work experience hours significantly and improves job prospects. Many employers prefer degree-holding candidates.
What’s the difference between CADC, CRADC, and CRAADC?
CADC is Missouri’s foundational certification, valid only in Missouri. CRADC is a reciprocal credential recognized across 40+ IC&RC member jurisdictions and requires more education and experience than CADC. CRAADC is an advanced reciprocal credential that requires a bachelor’s or master’s degree and extensive experience, positioning you for supervisory and clinical director roles. Both CRADC and CRAADC offer interstate practice privileges.
How much do substance abuse counselors make in Missouri?
The median salary for substance abuse counselors in Missouri is $48,131. Entry-level counselors earn around $34,000, while experienced counselors can earn $77,470 or more. Salaries are higher in Kansas City ($50,981 median) and St. Louis ($49,358 median). Advanced credentials, supervisory roles, and specializations can increase earning potential by 20-40%.
Is a Missouri certification valid in other states?
The CADC credential is only valid in Missouri. If you want to practice in other states, pursue the CRADC or CRAADC credentials, which are recognized through the IC&RC reciprocity agreement across more than 40 member boards in the U.S. and Canada.
Can I complete my practicum hours while working full-time?
Yes, many candidates complete their practicum and work experience hours through their full-time employment in substance abuse treatment settings. Your employer must have an MCB-approved supervisor on staff, and your work must include direct client contact in addiction counseling roles. Verify with the MCB that your position qualifies before accumulating hours.
What happens if I fail the IC&RC exam?
You can retake the IC&RC ADC exam after a 90-day waiting period. The retake fee is $195. You’ll receive a diagnostic report showing your performance in each content area, allowing you to focus your study efforts. Many candidates pass on their second attempt after targeted preparation.
Are there loan forgiveness programs for substance abuse counselors in Missouri?
Yes, several programs exist. The National Health Service Corps offers loan repayment to counselors working in Health Professional Shortage Areas (many rural Missouri counties qualify). Some Missouri employers offer loan repayment assistance or sign-on bonuses to attract counselors, particularly in underserved areas. Check with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services for current programs.
Key Takeaways
- Missouri offers multiple pathways to CADC certification, with timelines ranging from 1.5 years (master’s degree) to 4+ years (high school diploma)
- Earning a degree reduces required work experience hours and improves job prospects, though it’s not mandatory
- The certification process includes 180 contact hours of education, a 300-hour practicum, supervised work experience, and passing the IC&RC ADC exam
- Missouri’s substance abuse counselor job market is growing 14% through 2030, faster than most occupations
- Median salaries range from $48,000-$51,000 statewide, with higher earners making $77,000-$81,000+ in urban areas
- Advanced credentials (CRADC, CRAADC) offer reciprocity in 40+ jurisdictions and increase earning potential by 10-30%
- Rural Missouri offers loan forgiveness programs and hiring incentives to attract qualified counselors
Ready to Start Your Journey as a Missouri Substance Abuse Counselor?
Explore accredited degree programs that meet MCB requirements and position you for success. Compare associate, bachelor’s, and master’s programs designed for addiction counseling careers.
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.
