Steps to Earning Substance Abuse Counselor Certification in Nebraska

The most practical benefit to earning a full degree is that it significantly reduces the number of supervised work experience hours required for the LADC license. Also, the general undergraduate coursework you’ll take will build other useful skills in areas like communication and critical thinking and give you a better grasp of the social and cultural factors that contribute to substance use disorder.

By fulfilling these educational requirements, you’ll be on your way to becoming a PLADC and eventually a fully licensed LADC in Nebraska.

2. Complete 300 Hours of Supervised Professional Training in the 12 Core Functions

To become a PLADC in Nebraska, in addition to the required education, you must complete 300 hours of supervised practical training under the supervision of a department-approved substance abuse counselor trainer, or a licensed physician or psychologist. (You can call the Oklahoma Department of Health and Human Services at 402-471-4970 to get a full list of approved trainers).

Your training must cover the following 12 core functions, with a minimum of 10 performance hours in each:

• Screening
• Intake
• Orientation
• Assessment
• Treatment Planning
• Counseling
• Case Management
• Crisis Intervention
• Client Education
• Referral
• Reports and Recordkeeping
• Consultation

For every ten hours of core alcohol and drug counseling training completed, you will need to meet with your supervisor for a face-to-face evaluation lasting at least one hour. Additionally, you’ll need to log one hour of individual or group supervision for each hour of paid experience. These supervised hours ensure you gain the necessary experience and skills to effectively support clients in their recovery journey.

If you complete a certificate program, you’ll need to find your own trainer and enter into a period of training on your own time. However, if you choose an associate degree, the program will likely include an integrated practicum that meets this requirement. For example, Metropolitan Community College offers an AAS in Human Services – Chemical Dependency Counseling at its Fort Omaha campus that includes a six-credit, 300-hour practicum.

3. Apply to Become a Provisionally Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (PLADC)

After completing the required education and supervised professional training, the next step is to apply for the PLADC credential in Nebraska. Start by gathering the necessary documents, including proof of education (transcripts or training verification) and verification of 300 hours of supervised practical training in the 12 core functions.

Next, fill out the PLADC application form available on the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services website. Send the completed application, all required documents, and the $275 application fee to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services.

Once your application is reviewed and approved, you will receive your PLADC credential. This credential allows you to gain the necessary work experience for full licensure as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor in Nebraska. The PLADC credential is valid for six years, during which you must complete the required work experience to apply for full licensure.

4. Satisfy Clinical Work Experience Requirements

Once you’ve completed the required education, you’ll begin a period of supervised clinical work experience. This involves direct contact with patients, working under a qualified supervisor who will document and attest to your work hours. Your duties must include direct client interaction, counseling (individual and group), treatment planning, and associated tasks.

The required hours vary based on your education level: