To become a substance abuse counselor in Washington, DC, you need an associate degree in a health or human services field with specific coursework, complete 500 supervised hours of work experience, and pass both the NAADAC Level I exam and the DC Jurisprudence exam to earn your Certified Addiction Counselor I (CAC I) certification.
Table of Contents
- Steps to Becoming Certified as a Substance Abuse Counselor in Washington, DC
- How Long Does It Take to Become a CAC I in Washington, DC?
- What Does CAC I Certification Cost?
- Advanced Certification Options in the District of Columbia
- Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Washington, DC
- Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Washington, DC
- Substance Abuse Counselor Degree Options in Washington, DC
- Frequently Asked Questions
Washington, DC, faces a significant substance abuse crisis, though recent data shows encouraging progress. In 2023, the district had a fentanyl overdose death rate of 50.5 per 100,000 residents, ranking among the nation’s highest. However, 2024 brought dramatic improvements, with DC experiencing a decline of more than 35% in overdose deaths compared to the previous year.
The widespread availability and high potency of fentanyl remain major threats, but expanded access to naloxone, improved treatment programs, and increased community awareness are making a difference. As a substance abuse counselor in Washington, DC, you’ll play a vital role in sustaining this positive momentum.
Your work will involve providing critical support and guidance to those struggling with addiction, helping them navigate the path to recovery. Opportunities abound in various settings, from community health centers and hospital-based programs to specialized outpatient treatment facilities and harm reduction organizations.
Steps to Becoming Certified as a Substance Abuse Counselor in Washington, DC
The District of Columbia Department of Health, Health Regulation and Licensing Administration (HRLA) is responsible for certifying substance abuse counselors in Washington, DC. They offer the following certification levels for front-line counselors based on experience and education:
- Certified Addiction Counselor I (CAC I)
- Certified Addiction Counselor II (CAC II)
For most aspiring substance abuse counselors in Washington, DC, the Certified Addiction Counselor I (CAC I) certification serves as the point of entry into the field. That’s what we’ll be covering here in this guide.
1. Earn an Associate Degree or Higher in Substance Abuse Counseling or Any Health or Human Services Focus
2. Document 500 Hours of Supervised Work Experience in Addiction Counseling
3. Pass the NAADAC Level I Exam and DC Jurisprudence Exam
4. Apply to Become a Certified Addiction Counselor I (CAC I) through the DC Board of Professional Counseling
Ready to become a substance abuse counselor in Washington, DC? We’ve simplified the certification process into easy-to-follow steps. With our guide, you’ll navigate the requirements with confidence and ease.
1. Earn an Associate Degree or Higher in Substance Abuse Counseling or Any Other Health or Human Services Focus
To begin the journey of becoming a Certified Addiction Counselor I (CAC I) in Washington, DC, you must first earn at least an associate degree in a health or human services field. This foundational education will equip you with the necessary knowledge and skills to address the complexities of addiction counseling.
Your associate degree should be from an accredited institution and must include a minimum of three (3) hours in each of the following:
- Understanding the Dynamics of Human Behavior and Family Systems
- Signs and Symptoms of Substance Abuse
- Recovery Process, Stages of Change, Relapse Prevention, and Treatment Approaches
- Ethics, Rules, and Regulations
- Professional Identity in Substance Abuse Services
- Crisis Intervention
- Cultural Competence in Addiction
- Co-occurring Disorders in Interdisciplinary Treatment
- Diagnostic and Screening Criteria in Addictions
- Psychopharmacology Resources in the Treatment of Addictions
Earning this degree will not only fulfill the educational requirements but also provide a strong foundation for further training and certification in the field of addiction counseling.
2. Document 500 Hours of Supervised Work Experience in Addiction Counseling
After obtaining your associate degree, the next step to becoming a substance abuse counselor in Washington, DC, involves completing a period of on-the-job supervision and related work experience. This practical training is essential for gaining hands-on experience and developing the skills necessary for effective addiction counseling.
You will need to complete at least 500 hours of supervised work experience in the field of addiction counseling. This supervision must be conducted by a qualified supervisor who meets the standards set by the District of Columbia Board of Professional Counseling.
The supervised work experience must include a minimum of 40 hours in each of the categories listed in the coursework from the first step.
During this period, you’ll apply the theoretical knowledge gained during your coursework to real-world situations under the guidance of your supervisor. This will help you develop critical skills in client assessment, counseling techniques, treatment planning, and ethical practice.
3. Pass the NAADAC Level I Exam and the DC Jurisprudence Exam
The final educational step to becoming a Certified Addiction Counselor I (CAC I) in Washington, DC, is to take and pass the required exams. These exams ensure that you have the necessary knowledge and competencies to practice as a professional addiction counselor.
National Examination: You must take and pass the NAADAC Level I examination. This national certification exam, administered by the National Association of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC), tests your understanding of addiction counseling principles, practices, and ethics.
District of Columbia Jurisprudence Examination: In addition to the national exam, you are required to pass the District of Columbia’s jurisprudence examination. This exam assesses your knowledge of local laws, rules, and ethical standards pertinent to the practice of addiction counseling in Washington, DC.
Preparing for these exams involves reviewing the coursework and practical experience you have gained. It’s advisable to utilize available study guides and practice tests provided by NAADAC and the District of Columbia Board of Professional Counseling.
4. Apply to Become a Certified Addiction Counselor I (CAC I) through the DC Board of Professional Counseling
Once you have completed your education, supervised work experience, and passed the necessary exams, the final step is to apply for your certification as a Certified Addiction Counselor I (CAC I) in Washington, DC.
First, prepare all required documentation, including your official transcripts showing completion of your associate degree, verification of your supervised work experience signed by your supervisor, and proof of passing the NAADAC Level I examination and the district jurisprudence examination.
Next, obtain the application form from the District of Columbia Board of Professional Counseling’s website. Carefully fill out the form, ensuring all information is accurate and complete.
Finally, submit your completed application form along with all supporting documents and the application fee to the Board of Professional Counseling. Make sure to follow any additional instructions provided by the board to ensure your application is processed smoothly.
Once your application is reviewed and approved, you’ll receive your certification as a Certified Addiction Counselor I, allowing you to begin your professional practice in Washington, DC.
How Long Does It Take to Become a CAC I in Washington, DC?
The timeline to become a Certified Addiction Counselor I in Washington, DC, typically ranges from 2.5 to 4 years, depending on your educational path and how quickly you complete your supervised hours.
Associate Degree: 2 years (if attending full-time). Part-time students may take 3-4 years.
Supervised Hours: 500 hours can take 6-12 months, depending on your employment situation. Working full-time in an addiction treatment setting, you might complete this in 6 months. Part-time work extends this to 12 months or more.
Exam Preparation and Testing: 3-6 months to study for and pass both the NAADAC Level I and DC Jurisprudence exams.
Application Processing: 1-2 months for the Board of Professional Counseling to review and approve your application.
Many students begin accumulating supervised hours while completing their degree, which can shorten the overall timeline. If you already hold a bachelor’s degree in a related field, you may be able to bypass the associate degree requirement, potentially reducing your timeline to 1-2 years.
What Does CAC I Certification Cost?
The total investment to become a Certified Addiction Counselor I in Washington, DC, typically ranges from $6,500 to $20,500. Here’s a breakdown of the costs:
Associate Degree Tuition: $6,000-$20,000, depending on whether you attend a community college (lower cost) or a four-year institution. In-state tuition at DC community colleges averages around $6,000-$8,000 for the full program, while out-of-state or private institutions can cost $15,000-$20,000 or more.
NAADAC Level I Exam: Approximately $230.
DC Jurisprudence Exam: Typically $50-$100.
Application Fee: Around $200-$300 for initial certification application.
Study Materials: $100-$300 for exam preparation books, practice tests, and study guides.
Background Check: $50-$100 (required for certification).
Financial aid, scholarships, and workforce development grants may be available to help offset these costs. Many addiction treatment facilities also offer tuition reimbursement or stipends for employees pursuing certification.
Advanced Certification Options in the District of Columbia
A higher degree and more experience in the substance abuse counseling field opens doors to advanced certifications, leading to better job opportunities, higher pay, and the ability to make a greater impact in your profession. In Washington, DC, you have the option of advancing your Certified Addiction Counselor I (CAC I) certification to the Certified Addiction Counselor II (CAC II) certification.
Certified Addiction Counselor II (CAC II):
To qualify for CAC II certification, you must have:
- A bachelor’s degree in a health or human services field, such as registered nursing, aging studies, criminal justice, health education, or mental health, from an accredited institution
The degree must include the following coursework:
- Understanding the dynamics of human behavior and family systems (3 hours)
- Signs and symptoms of substance abuse (3 hours)
- Recovery process, stages of change, relapse prevention, treatment approaches, group dynamics, and other adjunctive treatment recovery support groups, motivational interviewing, and models and theories of addiction (9 hours)
- Ethics, rules, and regulations (3 hours)
- Professional identity in the provision of substance abuse services (3 hours)
- Crisis intervention (3 hours)
- Substance abuse counseling, treatment planning, and research (3 hours)
- Counseling skills for individual and group, motivational interviewing (3 hours)
- Cultural factors and competencies in addiction (3 hours)
- Co-occurring disorders in interdisciplinary treatment (3 hours)
- Diagnostic and screening criteria in addictions (3 hours)
- Psychopharmacology resources in the treatment of addictions (3 hours)
You must also complete at least 180 hours of supervised experience. Of these hours, at least 120 must consist of performing at least 10 hours in each of the following tasks with substance abuse clients:
- Screening clients to determine eligibility and appropriateness for admission into a particular program
- Intake of clients by performing the administrative and initial assessment tasks necessary for admission to a program
- Orientation for new clients to the program’s rules, goals, procedures, services, costs, and rights of the client
- Assessment of the client’s strengths, weaknesses, problems, and needs for the development of a treatment plan
- Treatment planning with the client to identify and rank problems to be addressed, establish goals, and agree on treatment processes
- Counseling the client, utilizing specialized skills in both individual and group approaches to achieve treatment goals and objectives
- Case management activities bring services, agencies, people, and resources together in a planned framework of action to achieve established goals
- Crisis intervention responses to clients’ needs during acute mental, emotional, or physical distress
- Education of clients by providing information about drug abuse and available services and resources
- Referral of clients to meet identified needs that can to be met by the counselor, and assisting the client in effectively utilizing those resources
- Reporting and charting information about the client’s assessment, treatment plan, progress, discharge summaries, and other client-related data
- Consultation with other professionals to ensure a comprehensive quality of care for the client
Finally, you must pass the National Association of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors – National Certification Commission (NAADAC-NCC) Level II examination after satisfying all educational and experiential requirements.
By obtaining the CAC II certification, you can further establish your expertise and dedication to the field of substance abuse counseling, enhancing your ability to provide comprehensive care to those in need and advancing your professional career.
Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Washington, DC
Washington, DC, offers a diverse array of settings where substance abuse counselors can make a meaningful impact. The district’s unique position as the nation’s capital creates opportunities in federal programs, community-based organizations, hospitals, and specialized treatment centers.
Community-Based Organizations: Facilities such as Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Washington focus on comprehensive services, including substance abuse education and counseling. These organizations often serve diverse populations, including immigrants, veterans, and homeless individuals.
Intensive Outpatient Programs: Organizations like Imind Health LLC specialize in intensive outpatient treatment programs, offering flexible scheduling for clients who need structured support while maintaining work or family responsibilities.
Assertive Community Treatment Teams: Clarvida and similar organizations provide roles for substance abuse specialists on ACT (Assertive Community Treatment) or TACT (Team Assertive Community Treatment) teams, working with individuals experiencing both severe mental illness and substance use disorders.
Hospital-Based Programs: Major medical centers in DC, including MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, George Washington University Hospital, and Howard University Hospital, operate addiction treatment programs requiring certified counselors.
Government and Federal Programs: The Department of Veterans Affairs, Department of Corrections, and various federal agencies employ substance abuse counselors to serve specific populations.
Harm Reduction Organizations: DC’s progressive approach to substance abuse includes harm reduction services, syringe exchange programs, and overdose prevention centers that employ counselors focused on meeting people where they are in their recovery journey.
Private Practice and Telehealth: With advanced credentials, counselors can establish private practices or work with telehealth platforms serving DC residents remotely.
Substance Abuse Counselor Salary in Washington, DC
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), substance abuse counselors in Washington, DC, earned a median salary of $60,330 as of May 2023. Entry-level professionals in this field earned approximately $42,170 annually, while highly experienced substance abuse counselors earned closer to $97,750.
Counselors with CAC II certification and bachelor’s degrees typically earn in the upper range of this spectrum. Those working for federal agencies or large hospital systems often receive comprehensive benefits packages including health insurance, retirement contributions, and continuing education support.
Independent practitioners with advanced credentials can earn significantly more, especially when specializing in areas such as executive addiction treatment, trauma-informed care, or working with specific populations.
Substance Abuse Counselor Degree Options in Washington, DC
If you’re looking to become a substance abuse counselor in Washington, DC, there are excellent educational options available to help you meet certification requirements.
The University of the District of Columbia offers a Bachelor of Science in Health Education with a concentration in Substance Abuse Counseling. This program is designed to give you the essential skills and knowledge needed for CAC certification and to start working in the field. As DC’s only public university, UDC provides affordable tuition options for district residents.
If you need more flexibility, there are also excellent online programs available. The University of Mary, for example, offers a Bachelor of Science in Addiction Counseling that you can complete entirely online. This is a great option if you need to balance your studies with work or family commitments, allowing you to learn from the comfort of your home while meeting DC’s educational requirements.
Trinity Washington University, located in DC, offers both undergraduate and graduate programs in counseling that can lead to substance abuse counselor certification. Their programs emphasize social justice and serving underserved communities, aligning well with DC’s diverse population needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I become a substance abuse counselor with a criminal record in Washington, DC?
Washington DC evaluates criminal history on a case-by-case basis. The Board of Professional Counseling considers the nature and severity of offenses, how long ago they occurred, and evidence of rehabilitation. Certain convictions related to drug distribution or crimes involving moral turpitude may present challenges, but recovery and demonstrated change are taken into account. It’s best to be transparent in your application and provide documentation of rehabilitation efforts.
How do I find a qualified supervisor for my 500 hours in DC?
Your supervisor must hold a CAC II, LCADC, or equivalent higher credential and meet DC Board of Professional Counseling standards. Many addiction treatment facilities employ qualified supervisors and actively recruit students pursuing certification. Contact organizations like Catholic Charities, Imind Health, or community mental health centers. The DC Department of Behavioral Health also maintains a list of approved treatment providers where you’re likely to find supervision opportunities.
What’s the pass rate for the NAADAC Level I exam?
NAADAC doesn’t publish official pass rates, but industry estimates suggest approximately 70-75% of first-time test-takers pass the Level I exam. The exam covers the 12 Core Functions of addiction counseling and requires both knowledge recall and application skills. Most candidates who complete thorough exam preparation, including practice tests and study groups, pass on their first attempt.
Can I work as a substance abuse counselor while completing my CAC I requirements?
Yes. Many people work in addiction treatment settings while pursuing certification. You can work as a substance abuse technician, peer recovery specialist, or counselor assistant while completing your degree and accumulating supervised hours. These positions provide valuable experience and income while you meet certification requirements. Some employers offer tuition assistance or flexible scheduling to support employees pursuing certification.
What’s the difference between CAC I and a Licensed Clinical Addiction Counselor (LCADC)?
CAC I is an entry-level certification requiring an associate degree and 500 supervised hours. LCADC is an advanced license requiring a master’s degree in counseling or related field, 4,000-6,000 hours of supervised clinical experience, and passing a clinical exam. LCADCs can diagnose substance use disorders, provide psychotherapy, and practice independently, including opening private practices and billing insurance directly. CAC I counselors work under supervision and focus on direct service delivery within treatment programs.
Key Takeaways
- Washington DC requires an associate degree with specific coursework, 500 supervised hours, and passing two exams to become a Certified Addiction Counselor I (CAC I)
- The certification process typically takes 2.5-4 years and costs $6,500-$20,500, with financial aid options available
- DC experienced a dramatic 35%+ decline in overdose deaths in 2024, creating strong demand for qualified counselors
- CAC I counselors in DC earn a median salary of $60,330, with experienced professionals earning up to $97,750 annually
- Advancement to CAC II requires a bachelor’s degree, 180 additional supervised hours, and passing the NAADAC Level II exam
- Job opportunities span community organizations, hospitals, federal programs, harm reduction services, and private practice settings
Ready to Start Your Path to Certification in Washington DC?
Explore accredited substance abuse counseling degree programs that meet DC’s CAC I requirements. Compare online and on-campus options to find the right fit for your schedule and career goals.
2023 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and employment figures for Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors reflect state and local data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed November 2025.
