Frequently Asked Questions
SAC-IT Related Questions
The timeline to become certified as a Substance Abuse Counselor in Training (SAC-IT) depends on your starting point and the specific requirements in your state. At Laitinen Academy, the SAC-IT program requires 100 hours of coursework, which can typically be completed in a few months. Additional time is needed for supervised fieldwork, completing state application requirements, and obtaining your SAC-IT credential. Most individuals complete the process within 6–12 months.
The SAC-IT program is a comprehensive training program designed to prepare individuals for a career in substance abuse counseling. It provides foundational knowledge, practical skills, and supervised fieldwork necessary to help individuals navigate their recovery journeys.
The program covers:
- Dynamics of Addiction: Understanding psychological, social, and physiological factors.
- Counseling Skills: Developing individual and group counseling techniques.
- Ethical and Legal Considerations: Adhering to professional and ethical frameworks.
- Treatment Planning: Crafting individualized plans for clients.
- Cultural Competency: Addressing the influence of cultural factors on addiction and recovery
To apply for your SAC-IT credential:
- Register on the State of Wisconsin Website: Create an account and apply for a training license under “SAC-IT.”
- Complete Required Forms: Submit the following directly to the state:
- Form 2770: Employment/Volunteer Verification.
- Form 3079: Certificate of Completion of a department-approved program.
- Form 2832: Documentation of 100 specialized education hours (if applicable).
- Take the WI Statutes and Rules Exam: An online, open-book exam.
- Pay the $135 Application Fee: Submit payment with your application.
With an SAC-IT certification, you can pursue roles such as:
- Behavioral Health Technician.
- Admissions and Intake Coordinator.
- Substance Use Disorder Counselor (under supervision).
- Peer Recovery Coach.
These roles are available in settings such as detox centers, outpatient facilities, residential treatment programs, and community health organizations.
The pay for SAC-IT roles varies by experience and responsibility level:
- Entry-Level: $15/hour for beginner positions involving basic responsibilities and supervision.
- Experienced SAC-IT: Up to $28/hour for roles requiring more independence and expertise.
Unpaid internships or volunteer roles may also be available for those completing educational or clinical hour requirements.
SAC-IT-certified individuals are trained in:
- Clinical evaluation.
- Treatment planning and coordination.
- Counseling (individual, group, and family).
- Community and patient education.
- Professional and ethical responsibilities.
SAC-IT certification opens the door to careers in:
- Substance Use Disorder Treatment Providers.
- Hospitals and outpatient clinics.
- Residential treatment centers.
- Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) facilities.
This certification also provides a stepping stone toward becoming a fully certified Substance Abuse Counselor (SAC).
Yes. SAC-IT certification is often the first step toward becoming a fully licensed Substance Abuse Counselor (SAC) or advancing into specialized roles such as dual-diagnosis counseling or adolescent substance abuse counseling.
Laitinen Academy provides:
- Comprehensive coursework taught by experienced professionals.
- Assistance navigating state credential applications.
- Access to supervised fieldwork opportunities.
- A network of resources to help with career development and continuing education.
SAC(Substance Abuse Counselor) related questions
A Substance Abuse Counselor (SAC) is a professional trained to support individuals who struggle with substance use disorders. They help clients develop strategies to overcome addiction, improve mental health, and rebuild their lives.
The educational requirements in Wisconsin are 100 educational hours by state approved Typically, becoming a SAC requires at least a bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, counseling, or a related field. Many roles also require a master’s degree, especially for advanced counseling positions or if you intend to offer private therapy.
Yes, most states and countries require SACs to obtain certification or licensure to practice. This often involves completing education prerequisites, a certain number of supervised clinical hours, and passing a certification exam.
The timeline can vary based on your starting point (such as your current level of education), the specific certification requirements in your region, and how quickly you complete the supervised hours. Typically, it can take from two to five years to meet all the requirements, including educational and supervised clinical practice.
Important skills for a SAC include strong communication, empathy, problem-solving, and the ability to maintain professional boundaries. Knowledge of therapeutic methods and a high level of emotional intelligence are also crucial.
A typical day for a SAC may involve conducting individual and group therapy sessions, creating treatment plans, documenting clients’ progress, and possibly participating in outreach programs. SACs work in various settings, including private clinics, hospitals, community health centers, and residential treatment facilities.
Yes, SACs can specialize in areas such as adolescent substance abuse, opioid addiction, alcoholism, or co-occurring disorders (clients who suffer from both substance abuse and mental health issues). Specializing often requires additional training or certification.
The role can be emotionally demanding as SACs often work with clients who are dealing with severe and complex issues. The high responsibility of helping clients through recovery can also be stressful. However, seeing clients succeed can be highly rewarding.
The demand for SACs is expected to grow due to the increasing need for addiction and mental health services. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects much faster than average job growth for mental health counselors, including SACs, from 2019 to 2029.
You can find more information from professional bodies such as the American Counseling Association (ACA), National Board for Certified Counselors (NBCC), or local licensing boards. These organizations provide resources about education programs, certification processes, and professional development.
PRC LEARN Related Questions
The LEARN Peer Recovery Coaching Certification program includes a 40-hour comprehensive training program offered through Laitinen Academy. Completion time can vary depending on your schedule and availability, but many participants complete the program within one to two weeks.
The LEARN certification is a professional credential offered through Laitinen Academy that equips individuals with lived experience of recovery from substance use or mental health challenges to assist others on their recovery journeys. This certification emphasizes practical skills, ethical standards, and core competencies to ensure effective peer coaching.
The LEARN program focuses on these foundational competencies:
- Ethical Responsibility: Confidentiality, boundaries, and adherence to ethical standards.
- Mentoring and Education: Teaching skills, sharing resources, and fostering recovery literacy.
- Recovery and Wellness Support: Holistic, person-centered approaches to recovery planning.
- Advocacy: Empowering clients and combating stigma through education.
- Professional and Personal Development: Ongoing education and personal wellness.
- Communication: Active listening, conflict resolution, and effective communication strategies.
- Cultural Competence: Respecting and understanding cultural diversity.
- Relationship Building: Establishing trust and rapport to foster client engagement.
Training topics include:
- Ethical guidelines and professional boundaries.
- Communication strategies such as active listening and conflict resolution.
- Crisis intervention and relapse prevention techniques.
- Resource navigation for recovery support services.
- Advocacy and self-empowerment education for clients.
Individuals with lived experience in recovery from substance use or mental health challenges who are passionate about helping others are ideal candidates. The program emphasizes leveraging personal recovery journeys to inspire and support others.
The LEARN program focuses on creating a supportive, client-centered environment while equipping coaches with tools for advocacy, resource navigation, and personal development. Coaches are trained to provide non-judgmental, empathetic guidance that fosters growth and empowerment.
LEARN-certified coaches work in diverse settings, such as:
- Community recovery centers.
- Private clinics.
- Hospitals or healthcare facilities.
- Advocacy organizations and nonprofits.
Coaches also facilitate group workshops, peer support sessions, and community-building events.
LEARN-certified coaches gain access to the Lived Experience and Resource Network (LEARN), which provides a wide array of resources, tools, and ongoing professional development opportunities to enhance their coaching practice.
Yes, LEARN-certified coaches are encouraged to participate in ongoing professional development to stay current with advancements in recovery research and best practices. Continuous learning is a cornerstone of the program.
The LEARN program provides training in:
- Creating a safe, non-judgmental space for clients to explore their challenges and successes.
- Navigating resources such as medical treatment, support groups, and employment services.
- Empowering clients to advocate for themselves and access long-term recovery pathways.
- Facilitating group workshops and building community connections.
Contact Laitinen Academy directly to learn about upcoming training sessions and enrollment options. Our team is here to guide you through the certification process and help you take the first step toward becoming a certified Peer Recovery Coach.