Last Updated on: 2025-08-04

Estimated reading time: 4 minutes

With 1 in 7 Americans facing substance addiction in their lifetime, the need for qualified, compassionate drug and alcohol counselors has never been higher (USA Today, 2017). If you’re passionate about helping others reclaim their lives, earning a Certified Alcohol Drug Counselor (CADC) certification could be your ideal next step.

This guide explains everything you need to know about CADC certification—including types, requirements, training options, and how to choose the best program for your goals.

💡 What Is a CADC Certification?

A Certified Alcohol Drug Counselor (CADC) is a professional credential for those working in the field of addiction and substance use counseling. CADC-certified counselors help individuals understand the root causes of their addiction, develop coping strategies, and maintain recovery through one-on-one or group counseling.

While CADC certification isn’t always mandatory, it often leads to:

• Greater job opportunities
• Higher earning potential
• Increased credibility with clients and employers
• Access to state-licensed or certified treatment centers

CADC certification is typically administered through the California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals (CCAPP) or equivalent state-approved organizations.

📘 Types of CADC Certifications Explained

Choosing the right certification depends on your education level, career goals, and field experience. Here’s a breakdown:

🔹 RADT (Registered Alcohol and Drug Technician)

This is the first step for most aspiring counselors.

• Entry-level certification in California
• Required before pursuing CADC training
• Two levels: RADT I and RADT II
• RADT II is ideal for those preparing for CADC certification

🔹 CADC-I (Certified Alcohol Drug Counselor – Level I)

Best for those with a high school diploma, GED, or associate degree.

• Fewer supervised hours required
• Great for entry-level roles in treatment centers
• Qualifies you to work in certified counseling environments

🔹 CADC-II (Certified Alcohol Drug Counselor – Level II)

Designed for those with a bachelor’s degree.

• Requires more supervised work experience than CADC-I
• Opens the door to mid-level and leadership roles
• Increases earning potential and professional growth

🔹 LAADC (Licensed Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor)

The highest level of certification through CCAPP.

• Requires a master’s degree and professional liability insurance
• Must complete 300 hours of education and 4,000 hours of supervised experience
• Ideal for clinical supervisors, advanced practitioners, or private practice professionals

💼 LAADC certification is perfect for those who want to stand out in competitive job markets and pursue top-tier roles in the substance abuse counseling field.

🧩 CADC Certification Requirements

Before enrolling in a program, make sure your school is approved by CCAPP or a state-recognized certification board.

To earn your CADC certification, you typically need to:

1. Complete CCAPP-approved education (online, in-person, or hybrid)
2. Fulfill supervised work experience hours in a licensed setting
3. Pass a state-recognized certification exam
4. Maintain ongoing professional development and ethics training

💻 Can You Get CADC Certification Online?

Yes—many accredited CADC training programs are available online, including flexible options for working adults.

However, certification also requires hands-on supervised experience, which cannot be completed online. Most students combine online coursework with in-person internships or entry-level roles at treatment facilities.

⏱️ Depending on your pace, it’s possible to earn CADC certification in less than one year.

🔍 Choosing the Right Drug and Alcohol Counseling Program

When comparing CADC programs, consider the following:

• Is the school CCAPP-approved? This ensures your education will count toward certification.
• Does the program offer flexible formats? Look for online, hybrid, or part-time options if you need to work while studying.
• Does it support both new and experienced learners? Quality programs offer resources whether you’re new to counseling or building on prior experience.

🏫 InterCoast Colleges offers CCAPP-approved online training that can be completed in under a year.

🎯 Why Get CADC Certified?

Here’s how CADC certification benefits your career:

• ✔️ Access better job opportunities in certified and state-licensed facilities
• ✔️ Gain credibility with clients, peers, and employers
• ✔️ Boost your confidence with a solid foundation of education and practical experience
• ✔️ Advance your career into supervisory, clinical, or private practice roles

📣 Ready to Start Your Counseling Career?

If you’re ready to turn your passion for helping others into a profession, a CADC certification is the key to unlocking new opportunities in the addiction recovery field.

At InterCoast Colleges, we provide flexible, CCAPP-approved training that prepares you for certification in less than a year. Our online and hybrid programs are designed to support your learning and career growth—whether you’re just starting or looking to level up.

👉 Explore InterCoast’s CADC Training Program

📚 Learn from real-world professionals, study on your schedule, and take the first step toward a meaningful counseling career today.

Sources:

• California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals (CCAPP)
• National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA)
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
• InterCoast Colleges – CADC Program Overview

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