Program Overview

Certificate, 45-70 credits (depending on academic background)

Students may begin any quarter.
The Chemical Dependency Specialist program may be a good fit for you if you enjoy helping people, have good communication and problem-solving skills, and work well with diverse groups and individuals.
Areas of study include group dynamics, case management, physiology, and pharmacology.
Graduates are qualified to practice in licensed chemical dependency facilities in the State of Washington; outpatient, residential, institutional, detoxification and treatment facilities; and in a variety of public facilities.

The Chemical Dependency Specialist Program is a non-sequential certificate program designed to prepare students for a career as a specialist in the field of chemical dependency. The program includes an integrated curriculum approach of classroom instruction and field-based clinical experience. Students will acquire competencies in the areas of interviewing, group dynamics, case management, physiology of chemical dependency, pharmacology related to chemical dependency, the impact of chemical dependency on family members, and specific counseling interventions for working with chemical dependent clients. Washington State law requires completion of specific credits in chemical dependency, plus an HIV/AIDS course (SHS 150) to practice as a chemical dependency counselor. Additional course work is designed to further enhance student skills and employability. Courses meet the State of Washington Department of Alcohol and Substance Abuse, and the Chemical Dependency Counselor Certification Board requirements for chemical dependency qualification. Students may enter the program fall, winter or spring quarters. Courses are offered day and evening. Completion of the certificate takes approximately four-five quarters.

Career Opportunities

Students successfully completing this program will be eligible to practice in direct service positions in licensed chemical dependency facilities in the State of Washington. Opportunities exist in outpatient, intensive outpatient, residential, institutional, detoxification and treatment facilities.

Professional careers in chemical dependency also include opportunities in community education, public schools, corrections, and other public facilities.

For Further Information:

Chemical Dependency Specialist Program
Seattle Central Community College
1701 Broadway, Room BE3220
Seattle, WA 98122
PHONE: (206) 934-6900
FAX: (206) 934-3177