To become a certified substance abuse counselor in New Jersey, you’ll complete 270 hours of addiction education, gain 300 hours of supervised training plus 3,000 hours of work experience over at least two years, and pass both written and oral IC&RC exams to earn your CADC credential. With a master’s degree, you can advance to LCADC for independent practice and clinical diagnosis authority.
Table of Contents
- New Jersey’s Substance Abuse Crisis
- Steps to Becoming Certified as a Substance Abuse Counselor
- CADC vs LCADC: Understanding the Differences
- Your Timeline to Certification
- Cost Breakdown: Investing in Your Certification
- Becoming a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC)
- Career Advancement and Specialization Paths
- Counselor Jobs in Newark, Trenton, and Throughout New Jersey
- Salary Information Across New Jersey
- Degree Programs in New Jersey
- Frequently Asked Questions
New Jersey is confronting a deadly substance abuse crisis, with 2,564 drug overdose deaths reported in 2023 alone. Prescription opioids, heroin, and cocaine are perennial contributors to the ongoing tragedy. But nobody in the world of substance use disorder treatment here in New Jersey would be surprised to learn that overdoses brought on by illicitly manufactured street-grade versions of the synthetic opioid fentanyl are only going up year-over-year.
Despite these grim statistics, New Jersey has seen a slight pull-back in overdose deaths overall in the years since the pandemic. This offers hope that there’s always a chance to turn things around at both the individual and community levels.
Substance abuse counselors deserve credit for disrupting the deadly trend. They will continue to be the touchpoint of support and guidance for anybody here looking to escape a life of addiction.
Whether you’re interested in working in the urban center of Newark, Jersey City, or Paterson, or in the outlying suburban areas of Lakewood and Woodbridge, you’ll find the demand for dedicated professionals is high, and the impact you can make is profound. New Jersey’s efforts include state-run initiatives and local community programs aimed at prevention, treatment, and recovery support, creating opportunities for aspiring Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselors (CADC) and Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselors (LCADC).
New Jersey by the Numbers
- 2,564 drug overdose deaths in 2023, with fentanyl as the primary driver
- Over 1,200 licensed substance abuse counselors serving communities statewide
- 13% projected job growth for addiction counselors through 2032
- Median salary of $60,250 for substance abuse counselors across the state
- 13 accredited colleges offering addiction counseling programs from certificates to doctoral degrees
Understanding New Jersey’s Substance Abuse Landscape
New Jersey’s overdose crisis affects every county, from urban centers like Essex and Hudson to suburban communities in Monmouth and Ocean Counties. The state’s location along major drug trafficking routes has intensified the fentanyl crisis, making the need for trained counselors more urgent than ever.
The New Jersey Department of Human Services, Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) is responsible for credentialing substance abuse counselors in New Jersey. They offer two primary credential levels based on education and experience, creating clear pathways for professionals at different career stages.
Steps to Becoming Certified as a Substance Abuse Counselor in New Jersey
For aspiring substance abuse counselors in New Jersey, the Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) credential serves as the starting point and a path to becoming a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC), a higher-level credential that requires a master’s degree.
What sets LCADCs apart from CADCs is the legal authority to practice independently without supervision. As a CADC, you’ll be working under the supervision of an LCADC or other authorized supervisor. Both LCADCs and CADCs can perform client assessments, but only LCADCs can make clinical diagnoses.
The CADC credential ensures that new counselors have the necessary skills and training to provide high-quality care and support to individuals struggling with addiction. Here’s your comprehensive pathway to earning this essential credential.
Your Four-Step Certification Journey
1. Consider earning an Associate or Bachelor’s Degree in Addiction Counseling and completing 270 Hours of Alcohol and Drug Education
2. Complete 300 Hours of Supervised Practicum Training and 3,000 Hours of Work Experience
3. Apply for the Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) Credential
4. Take and Pass the CADC Exam Administered by the IC&RC
1. Consider earning an Associate or Bachelor’s Degree in Addiction Counseling and completing 270 Hours of Alcohol and Drug Education
The CADC credential doesn’t require you to hold a degree of any kind. It’s entirely possible to access the training and experience you need to become a CADC straight out of high school or even a GED program. But that doesn’t mean a degree isn’t extremely valuable.
Even an associate degree can take you a long way toward completing the 270 hours of alcohol and drug education required to qualify for CADC certification, allowing you to bypass additional training courses and seminars. A bachelor’s degree in addiction counseling or a similar major would easily satisfy this education requirement. It would also put you in the perfect position to eventually pursue the master’s degree you need to become a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) as you progress in your career.
The written and verbal communication skills you get from a college degree will support you throughout your career. Serving patients frequently involves communicating with colleagues, supervising LCADCs, and collaborating with other mental health, social services, and healthcare professionals.
Add to that the kind of critical thinking and problem-solving skills you develop as a college student, and it’s easy to see why a degree is a smart way to prepare to become a substance use disorder professional.
Whether part of a degree program or separate from it, you’ll need to complete 270 hours of alcohol and drug education. These hours must cover the various essential topics recognized by the International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC), which the New Jersey Department of Human Services, Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) relies on for testing CADC and LCADC candidates.
Courses may otherwise be recognized by the Addiction Professionals Certification Board of New Jersey (APCBNJ), a nongovernmental nonprofit professional association serving the substance use disorder treatment community. DMHAS will also recognize courses approved by the National Association of Alcohol and Drug Counselors (NAADAC) if you happened to take them while living in a state that relies on NAADAC standards and exams for certification.
Those 270 hours break down as follows:
- 54 hours of Assessment
- 54 hours of Counseling
- 54 hours of Case Management
- 54 hours of Client Education
- 54 hours of Professional Responsibility
2. Complete 300 Hours of Supervised Practicum Training and 3,000 Hours of Work Experience
Your next big step toward becoming a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) in New Jersey is to complete 300 hours of supervised training and 3,000 hours of supervised work experience as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor Intern.
You’ll find local employers that routinely hire interns with the understanding that they’ll be taking on the responsibility of providing clinical training and documenting supervised experience. This is an excellent arrangement for employers, who get the opportunity to train interns in the clinic’s specific practices, culture, and specialties. In contrast, interns gain invaluable real-world exposure and accumulate the hours required for CADC certification.
A qualified clinical supervisor must formally document all supervised training and experience hours. This almost always means an LCADC, though it can also be a New Jersey state-licensed psychologist, physician, nurse practitioner, or other Advanced Practice Nurse (APN), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), or Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT).
The New Jersey Division of Mental Health and Addiction Services (DMHAS) requires interns to get 300 hours of direct practical training in the 12 core functions during this time:
- Screening
- Intake
- Orientation
- Assessment
- Treatment planning
- Counseling
- Case management
- Crisis intervention
- Client education
- Referral
- Consultation
- Recordkeeping
That training will prime you for the 3,000 hours of supervised work experience you’ll then acquire performing those same 12 core functions in the course of your daily duties. The minimum timeline for developing this experience is two years, with no more than 1,500 hours per year. All hours must be completed during the five years preceding your application.
This experience can be paid or voluntary, but it must involve direct work with clients in recovery from alcohol or other substance addictions, and it must relate to the 12 core functions of alcohol and drug counseling.
During this period, you must have at least 50 hours of direct face-to-face supervision per year, averaging 1 hour per week, with no more than 25 hours in group counseling. The remaining hours you’ll accumulate while working under general supervision, which means a qualified supervisor is on-site to review your work and case documentation.
Your work experience can come from multiple agencies and can be part-time as long as the 3,000-hour requirement is met within the five years.
During this period, you’ll also need to attend no fewer than 30 group meetings. At least 5 of these must be delivered through AA (Alcoholics Anonymous), another five must be through Narcotics Anonymous (NA), and another 5 through Al-Anon. The remaining 15 can be through any self-help addiction recovery meeting open to the public.
3. Apply for the Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) Credential
After completing your supervised training and work experience, the next step to becoming a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) in New Jersey is to apply for the credential.
Begin by obtaining and completing the application form from the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs website. You will need to provide detailed information about your educational background and work experience, including documentation of the 3,000 hours of supervised work experience within the past five consecutive years.
Gather official transcripts to verify that you have completed the required 270 hours of alcohol and drug education, and provide evidence of completing 300 hours of supervised practical training.
Once you submit all required materials along with a non-refundable application fee of $75, you’re ready to move on to the final step in becoming a CADC in New Jersey.
4. Take and Pass the CADC Exam Administered by the IC&RC
The final step to becoming a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) in New Jersey is to take and pass the required exams. These exams include both written and oral components developed by the International Certification Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC).
After the Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee approves your application, you will receive a letter authorizing you to schedule your exams. The written exam, which you must pass before taking the oral exam, tests your knowledge of the 12 core functions of addiction counseling.
To register for the exams, you must contact the Addiction Professionals Certification Board of New Jersey (APCBNJ). Exam dates and locations are provided on the APCBNJ website. The written exam is an international alcohol and drug proficiency test, and you can find an IC&RC study guide by visiting their website.
The oral exam involves a case presentation where you will respond to specific questions about a case study, demonstrating your practical application of counseling skills. Exams are typically held quarterly, though formats and locations may vary. Check the APCBNJ website for current scheduling and whether exams are offered in-person or virtually. You will receive your exam scores by mail within eight weeks.
If you do not pass the exams after three attempts, you must complete additional coursework in the areas where you demonstrated deficiencies before reapplying.
Good luck with your exams, and remember that thorough preparation is key to your success. With dedication and the right resources, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor in New Jersey.
CADC vs LCADC: Understanding the Differences
New Jersey offers two distinct credential levels for substance abuse counselors, each with different requirements, responsibilities, and career opportunities. Understanding these differences will help you plan your educational and professional pathway.
| Credential | CADC | LCADC |
|---|---|---|
| Education Required | 270 hours of education (no degree required) | Master’s degree in counseling or related field + 270 hours |
| Experience Required | 300 practicum hours + 3,000 work hours | 300 practicum hours + 3,000 work hours |
| Supervision | Must work under LCADC supervision | Can practice independently |
| Clinical Authority | Can assess clients | Can assess and diagnose clients |
| Typical Salary Range | $37,000 – $65,000 | $55,000 – $103,000+ |
| Private Practice | Not permitted | Permitted after licensure |
| Exam Requirements | IC&RC written + oral exams | IC&RC written + oral exams |
Your Timeline to Certification
Planning your path to becoming a substance abuse counselor in New Jersey requires understanding the time commitment involved. Here’s a realistic timeline for both CADC and LCADC credentials.
CADC Certification Timeline (No Degree)
- Months 1-6: Complete 270 hours of alcohol and drug education through approved training programs (can be done part-time while working)
- Months 7-12: Begin supervised practicum training (300 hours) and start accumulating work experience hours
- Year 2: Continue supervised work experience, working toward 1,500 hours for the year (minimum 50 hours of face-to-face supervision)
- Year 3: Complete remaining work experience hours to reach 3,000 total, attend the required 30 self-help group meetings
- Year 3 (End): Apply DMHAS with all documentation and $75 fee
- Year 3-4: Take and pass the IC&RC written exam, followed by the oral exam after approval
- Total Timeline: 3-4 years minimum from start to CADC credential
LCADC Licensure Timeline (With Master’s Degree)
- Years 1-2: Complete master’s degree in counseling with the required 18 graduate hours in specific areas
- Years 2-3: Complete 270 hours of alcohol and drug education and 300 hours supervised practicum (can overlap with degree)
- Years 3-5: Accumulate 3,000 hours of supervised work experience over a minimum of two years
- Year 5: Submit LCADC application, take IC&RC exams
- Total Timeline: 5-6 years from bachelor’s degree to LCADC license
Accelerated Path (Associate to CADC to LCADC)
- Years 1-2: Complete associate degree with addiction counseling focus (satisfies 270 education hours)
- Years 2-4: Work as an intern, accumulating practicum and experience hours while pursuing a bachelor’s degree online
- Year 4: Earn CADC credential, begin working as a counselor under supervision
- Years 5-7: Complete master’s degree part-time while working as a CADC
- Year 7: Apply for LCADC license (experience hours already completed)
- Total Timeline: 7-8 years from high school to LCADC with continuous education
Cost Breakdown: Investing in Your Certification
Understanding the financial investment required for substance abuse counselor certification in New Jersey helps you plan your educational pathway. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of costs you can expect.
CADC Certification Costs (Without Degree)
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| 270 Hours of Education (5 domains @ $400-800 each) | $2,000 – $4,000 |
| Study Materials and Resources | $200 – $500 |
| CADC Application Fee | $75 |
| IC&RC Written Exam Fee | $195 |
| IC&RC Oral Exam Fee | $150 |
| Background Check and Fingerprinting | $60 – $100 |
| 30 Self-Help Meeting Attendance (free, but gas/parking) | $50 – $150 |
| Total CADC Certification Cost | $2,730 – $5,170 |
CADC with Associate Degree Path
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Associate Degree at NJ Community College (2 years) | $8,000 – $15,000 |
| Additional training if needed (degree may cover 270 hours) | $0 – $1,000 |
| Application and Exam Fees | $480 |
| Total with Associate Degree | $8,480 – $16,480 |
LCADC with Master’s Degree Path
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Master’s Degree in Counseling (2 years) | $25,000 – $50,000 |
| 270 Hours of Education (may be included in the degree) | $0 – $2,000 |
| LCADC Application Fee | $75 |
| IC&RC Exams (written + oral) | $345 |
| Total LCADC Path | $25,420 – $52,420 |
💰 Financial Aid Tip: Many New Jersey community colleges and universities offer financial aid, scholarships, and payment plans for students pursuing addiction counseling. Some treatment facilities also offer tuition reimbursement or loan forgiveness for staff working toward credentials. Check with your employer about professional development support.
With a Master’s Degree, You Can Become a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC)
The only bar to becoming a Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) in New Jersey is earning a master’s degree in substance use disorder counseling, addictions studies, or a related field. All supervised experience, clinical training, and exam requirements are identical to those you’ve already completed in the course of becoming a CADC, so you can check them off as done.
Earning a master’s degree isn’t exactly a small hurdle, but it’s well worth the effort to practice independently and bring the most advanced knowledge and skills to clients.
You’ll have to make sure your master’s program includes at least 18 graduate semester hours in counseling distributed among the following areas:
- Counseling Theory and Practice
- The Helping Relationship
- Human Growth and Development
- Lifestyle and Career Development
- Group Dynamics, Processes, Counseling, and Consulting
- Assessment of Individuals
- Social and Cultural Foundations
- Research and Evaluation
- The Counseling Profession
- Pharmacology and Physiology
Why Pursue LCADC Status?
The LCADC credential opens doors that remain closed to CADCs. Independent practice allows you to open your own counseling practice, set your own schedule, and build a private client base. You’ll have full clinical authority to diagnose substance use disorders using DSM-5 criteria and develop comprehensive treatment plans without supervision.
LCADCs also typically earn 20-40% more than CADCs, with median salaries in New Jersey reaching $75,000-85,000 compared to $50,000-60,000 for CADCs. The additional education also positions you for leadership roles, clinical supervision positions, and program director opportunities.
Career Advancement and Specialization Paths
Your certification as a CADC or LCADC is just the beginning of your career journey. New Jersey offers numerous opportunities for specialization and advancement in addiction counseling.
Specialized Certifications and Focus Areas
- Adolescent and Youth Addiction Counseling: Work with teens and young adults facing substance use challenges in schools, juvenile justice, and specialized treatment facilities
- Co-Occurring Disorders: Specialize in treating clients with both substance use disorders and mental health conditions like depression, anxiety, or PTSD
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT): Support clients using medications like methadone, buprenorphine, or naltrexone alongside counseling
- Family Therapy and Intervention: Work with entire family systems affected by addiction, conducting interventions and family counseling sessions
- Criminal Justice and Reentry Programs: Help individuals transitioning from incarceration maintain sobriety and reintegrate into communities
- Trauma-Informed Care: Specializes in addressing the connection between trauma history and substance use disorders
Leadership and Advanced Roles
With experience and credentials, you can advance to positions like Clinical Supervisor (overseeing other CADCs), Program Director (managing entire treatment programs), or Clinical Director (leading multi-site treatment operations). Some LCADCs open private practices or consulting firms, providing training and expertise to treatment facilities across the state.
Continuing Education Requirements
New Jersey requires ongoing professional development to maintain your credential. CADCs must complete 40 hours of continuing education every two years, while LCADCs need 40 hours as well. These credits keep you up to date on evidence-based practices, new treatment modalities, and evolving regulations.
Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Newark, Trenton, and Throughout New Jersey
New Jersey offers a diverse array of settings where substance abuse counselors can make a significant impact. From urban treatment centers to suburban outpatient clinics, opportunities exist across all 21 counties for both CADCs and LCADCs.
Major Treatment Facilities Hiring in New Jersey
In Newark, facilities like Better Life Recovery & Wellness provide comprehensive treatment programs in Essex County. Trenton hosts several opportunities, including positions at Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care and Legacy Healing North Jersey.
Other notable facilities include:
- Zinnia Health (Endeavor House North), Kearny: Offers both inpatient and outpatient services with competitive salaries for LCADCs
- Seacrest Recovery Center, Eatontown: Provides a range of addiction treatment programs along the Jersey Shore
- Affinity Healthcare Group, Cherry Hill: Specializes in both individual and group therapy for substance use disorders in South Jersey.
- Northwest Essex Community Healthcare Network, Belleville: Focuses on community health and addiction services with a strong emphasis on underserved populations
Work Settings and Environments
Substance abuse counselors in New Jersey work in various settings, each offering unique experiences:
- Inpatient/Residential Treatment Centers: Provide 24/7 care for clients in early recovery, typically 30-90 day programs
- Outpatient Clinics: Offer flexible counseling schedules for clients living at home, including evening and weekend sessions
- Hospital-Based Programs: Work in medical detox units and psychiatric hospitals treating acute addiction cases
- Community Mental Health Centers: Serve diverse populations with sliding-scale fees and acceptance of Medicaid
- Private Practice: LCADCs can open independent counseling practices accepting insurance and private pay clients
- Criminal Justice Programs: Work in drug courts, probation programs, and correctional facilities
- Schools and Universities: Provide prevention education and intervention services for students
Job Market Outlook
Working as a substance abuse counselor in New Jersey means being at the forefront of helping individuals and families overcome addiction and contribute to healthier communities across the state. The demand for skilled professionals in this field continues to grow, with 13% projected job growth through 2032. This translates to approximately 150-200 new positions opening annually in New Jersey alone.
The ongoing opioid crisis, combined with increasing recognition of addiction as a treatable disease, ensures strong job security for credentialed counselors. Rural counties like Sussex, Warren, and Salem have particularly high demand as they work to expand treatment access.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Newark, Trenton, and Throughout New Jersey
Understanding salary expectations helps you make informed decisions about your career path and educational investments. Substance abuse counselor salaries in New Jersey vary based on credential level, experience, geographic location, and work setting.
Statewide Salary Overview
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), substance abuse counselors in New Jersey earned a median salary of $60,250 as of May 2024. Entry-level professionals in this field earned approximately $37,220 annually, while highly experienced substance abuse counselors with LCADC credentials earned $102,710 or more.
Salary by Major Metropolitan Areas
- Newark-Union-Jersey City Metro Area: As of May 2024, the BLS reported a median salary of $62,050 for substance abuse counselors in the Newark-Union-Jersey City metro area. Less experienced counselors earned about $40,510 during this time, while top counselors with advanced credentials earned $103,290 or more
- Trenton Metro Area: According to the BLS, substance abuse counselors in the Trenton Metro Area earned a median salary of $58,320 as of May 2024. Those with less experience earned around $36,800, while more experienced counselors earned $83,100 or more
- Atlantic City-Hammonton: Median salaries around $56,800, with casino employee assistance programs offering higher pay
- Camden Metro Area: Salaries averaging $59,400, with strong demand in South Jersey treatment facilities
Salary by Credential Level
| Credential | Entry Level | Mid-Career | Experienced |
|---|---|---|---|
| CADC | $37,000 – $45,000 | $48,000 – $58,000 | $60,000 – $72,000 |
| LCADC | $52,000 – $62,000 | $65,000 – $78,000 | $85,000 – $103,000+ |
| LCADC (Private Practice) | $60,000 – $75,000 | $80,000 – $100,000 | $110,000 – $150,000+* |
*Private practice earnings at the higher end depend on full caseload, insurance panel participation, and business management skills. Most private practice LCADCs earn $80,000-120,000.
Factors Affecting Salary
Several factors influence earning potential beyond just your credential level. Years of experience significantly impact salary, with counselors typically seeing 3-5% annual increases. Work setting matters too, with hospital-based positions and private practices generally paying more than community clinics.
Specializations also boost earning potential. Counselors with expertise in adolescent treatment, co-occurring disorders, or MAT programs often command 10-15% higher salaries. Leadership positions like Clinical Supervisor or Program Director can increase earnings by $15,000-30,000 annually.
Geographic location within New Jersey also plays a role. Northern New Jersey counties (Bergen, Essex, Hudson) typically offer higher salaries to offset higher living costs, while southern and rural counties may pay 10-15% less, with lower living expenses.
Substance Abuse Counselor Degree Options in New Jersey
New Jersey offers several degree programs for those aspiring to become substance abuse counselors, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for certification and licensure. The Rutgers University School of Social Work provides an Addiction Counselor Training (ACT) Certificate guided by SAMHSA’s vision of recovery, which encompasses health, home, purpose, and community. The curriculum is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of substance use disorder. It prepares them for roles in addiction counseling by emphasizing practical skills and evidence-based practices.
Monmouth University offers a Master’s degree in Substance Abuse Counseling. This program delivers an in-depth study of addiction and its treatment, preparing graduates for certification and licensure as substance abuse counselors. The coursework includes both theoretical and practical components, ensuring that students are well-equipped to handle real-world counseling scenarios.
These programs and others like them in the state offer both on-campus and flexible online options, allowing students to pursue their degrees in a manner that best fits their personal and professional schedules. By selecting one of these programs, prospective substance abuse counselors can gain the necessary knowledge and skills to excel in their field and make a significant impact in their communities.
Accredited Programs Throughout New Jersey
Atlantic Cape Community College
Accreditation: MSCHE
Format: Campus
Associate Degrees
- AS in Psychosocial Rehabilitation and Addictions Counseling
Camden County College
Social and Behavioral Science
Accreditation: MSCHE
Format: Online
Undergraduate Certificates
- Certificate of Achievement in Addictions Counseling
Associate Degrees
- AAS in Addictions Counseling
Hudson County Community College
School of Humanities and Social Sciences
Accreditation: MSCHE
Format: Online
Undergraduate Certificates
- Proficiency Certificate in Addictions Counseling
Associate Degrees
- AS in Human Services Pre-Social Work-Addictions Counseling
Middlesex College
Social Sciences, Behavioral Sciences, and Human Services
Accreditation: MSCHE
Format: Campus
Undergraduate Certificates
- Addiction Studies Certificate
Montclair State University
College for Community Health, Department of Counseling
Accreditation: MSCHE
Format: Campus
Master’s Degrees
- MA in Counseling-Addictions Counseling concentration
Graduate Certificates
- Graduate Certificate-Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor
Ocean County College
School of Business and Social Sciences
Accreditation: MSCHE
Format: Campus
Undergraduate Certificates
- Certificate of Completion in Addictions Counseling
Associate Degrees
- AS in Advanced and Continuous Studies in Human Services-Addictions Counseling
Passaic County Community College
Accreditation: MSCHE
Format: Campus
Undergraduate Certificates
- Certificate of Achievement in Alcohol and Drug Certification Domains
Raritan Valley Community College
Humanities, Social Science, and Education
Accreditation: MSCHE
Format: Campus
Undergraduate Certificates
- Chemical Dependency Certificate
Rowan College at Burlington County
Social and Behavioral Science
Accreditation: MSCHE
Format: Campus
Undergraduate Certificates
- Career Certificate in Addictions Counseling
Associate Degrees
- AAS in Human Services with a Certificate in Addictions Counseling included
Rowan College South Jersey
Behavioral Science and Law and Social Justice Division
Accreditation: MSCHE
Format: Campus
Undergraduate Certificates
- Certificate in Alcohol and Drug Counseling
Associate Degrees
- AS in Social Services with an Alcohol and Drug Counseling Certificate included
The College of New Jersey
School of Education
Accreditation: MSCHE
Format: Campus
Master’s Degrees
- MA in Clinical Mental Health Counseling-Addiction Counseling specialization
Warren County Community College
Professional Studies
Accreditation: MSCHE
Format: Campus
Undergraduate Certificates
- Certificate in Addiction Counseling
Associate Degrees
- AS in Addictions Counseling
Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Substance Abuse Counselor in New Jersey
How long does it take to become a CADC in New Jersey?
The minimum timeline to earn your CADC credential is approximately 3-4 years. This includes completing 270 hours of education (6-12 months), 300 hours of supervised practicum training, and 3,000 hours of work experience spread over at least two years. The actual timeline depends on whether you’re working full-time or part-time and how quickly you complete your education requirements.
What’s the difference between CADC and LCADC in New Jersey?
The main differences are education level and scope of practice. CADCs need 270 hours of training but no degree, work under supervision, and can assess clients. LCADCs need a master’s degree in counseling, can practice independently, can diagnose substance use disorders, and typically earn 20-40% more. Both require the same experience hours and IC&RC exams.
Can I work as a substance abuse counselor while completing my certification hours?
Yes, you can and should work while accumulating your hours. The 3,000 hours of supervised work experience must be gained through direct client counseling. Many treatment facilities hire interns or counselor trainees specifically to help them complete their certification requirements while gaining valuable experience.
Do I need a college degree to become a CADC in New Jersey?
No, a college degree is not required for CADC certification. You only need to complete 270 hours of alcohol and drug education covering the five domains. That said, an associate or bachelor’s degree in addiction counseling can satisfy much or all of this education requirement and will position you better for career advancement and eventual LCADC licensure.
How much does CADC certification cost in New Jersey?
Without a degree, expect to invest $2,700-5,200 total, including education courses ($2,000-4,000), application fees ($75), IC&RC exam fees ($345), study materials ($200-500), and background check ($60-100). If you pursue an associate degree, the cost ranges from $8,500 $ 16,500. Master’s degree programs for LCADC run $25,000-52,000.
What is the job outlook for substance abuse counselors in New Jersey?
The job outlook is excellent, with 13% projected growth through 2032. New Jersey’s ongoing opioid crisis and expanded insurance coverage for addiction treatment have created strong demand. Approximately 150-200 new positions open annually across the state, with particularly high demand in urban areas such as Newark and in underserved rural counties.
Can I transfer my substance abuse counselor certification from another state to New Jersey?
Possibly. IC&RC credentials offer reciprocity between states, but you’ll need to verify that your previous state’s requirements align with New Jersey’s standards. Contact the Addiction Professionals Certification Board of New Jersey (APCBNJ) to determine if your out-of-state credential qualifies for endorsement or if you’ll need additional training or exams.
What specializations can I pursue as a substance abuse counselor in New Jersey?
You can specialize in adolescent addiction counseling, co-occurring disorders (mental health and addiction), medication-assisted treatment (MAT), trauma-informed care, family therapy, criminal justice and reentry programs, or specific substances like opioids or alcohol. Many specializations require additional training and continuing education credits.
How often do I need to renew my CADC or LCADC credential?
Both CADC and LCADC credentials in New Jersey require renewal every 2 years. You must complete 40 hours of continuing education during each renewal period to maintain your credential. These CE credits must cover topics relevant to substance abuse counseling and can include workshops, conferences, online courses, and professional development activities.
Can LCADCs in New Jersey open their own private practice?
Yes, LCADCs can open independent private practices in New Jersey once they obtain their license. This allows you to see clients on your own, set your own rates, accept insurance as a provider, and build your own client base. Experienced private practice LCADCs may earn $110,000-150,000+, though this depends on maintaining a full caseload, insurance billing structure, and business management skills. Most private practice counselors earn $80,000-120,000 annually.
Key Takeaways
- New Jersey offers two credential levels: CADC (entry-level requiring 270 education hours and 3,300 total training/experience hours) and LCADC (master’s level with independent practice authority)
- The certification pathway takes 3-4 years minimum for CADC and 5-6 years for LCADC, with required IC&RC written and oral exams administered quarterly in Middlesex County
- Total investment for CADC ranges from $2,700 to $16,500, depending on the education path, while LCADC with a master’s degree costs $25,000 to $52,000
- Median salary is $60,250 statewide, with CADCs earning $37,000-72,000 and LCADCs earning $52,000-103,000+ based on experience and setting
- Job growth of 13% through 2032 creates approximately 150-200 new positions annually, with strong demand in urban centers and underserved rural areas
- 13 accredited New Jersey colleges offer addiction counseling programs from undergraduate certificates through master’s degrees, many with online options
Ready to Start Your Certification Journey in New Jersey?
Explore accredited substance abuse counseling programs throughout New Jersey and find the right educational pathway for your CADC or LCADC credential. Compare certificate programs, associate degrees, and master’s degrees to find the best fit for your career goals and timeline.
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 2024.
