Substance Abuse Counselor in Training

Substance Abuse Counselor - In Training

Program Overview

The Substance Abuse Counselor In Training (SAC-IT) program at Laitinen Academy is crafted to prepare aspiring substance abuse counselors with foundational knowledge and skills to aid individuals grappling with addiction. This extensive program offers a deep dive into the critical theories and practices necessary for effective counseling in the realm of substance use disorders.

Course Objectives

Understand the Dynamics of Addiction: Explore the psychological, social, and physiological factors that lead to substance use disorders.
Counseling Skills Development: Develop practical skills in both individual and group counseling techniques to foster recovery and resilience.
Ethical and Legal Considerations: Learn about the ethical and legal frameworks that guide substance abuse counseling, ensuring integrity and professionalism in practice.
Treatment Planning: Gain expertise in crafting and implementing effective treatment plans tailored to the specific needs of clients.
Cultural Competency: Understand the influence of cultural context on substance use and recovery, and learn strategies for providing inclusive care.

Program Length

The SAC-IT program encompasses several modules, totaling 100 hours of coursework. This includes both theoretical study and practical application through supervised fieldwork.

Certification

Upon program completion, participants will receive a certificate from Laitinen Academy, qualifying them to take state certification exams and meet any additional requirements to become a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor In Training (SAC IT).

Who Should Enroll

This program is ideal for those just starting their career in substance abuse counseling, professionals in related fields aiming to specialize in addiction counseling, and anyone dedicated to supporting others in their recovery journeys.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will have a comprehensive understanding of addiction science and effective counseling strategies.
Students will be equipped to ethically and effectively manage cases in various settings, from private practice to community health centers.
Students will be ready to take state certification exams and excel in roles that require direct client interaction and care coordination.

Career Options

Substance Use Disorder Treatment Providers, Hospitals, Detox, Residential, Outpatient, Medication Assisted Treatment Clinic (MAT), Health and Human Services, Criminal Justice

Typical pay scale for SAC-IT

The pay scale for Substance Abuse Counselor in Training (SAC-IT) can indeed vary widely, from unpaid volunteering or internships for those just starting out and gaining initial experience, to paid positions that reflect the growing responsibilities and skills as they progress toward full certification. Here’s a breakdown of the typical payment structure you might expect across different stages in this career path:

Free Internships or Volunteer:

These positions are usually aimed at individuals who are early in their training or education and need to fulfill specific clinical hours as part of their educational requirements. While these positions do not offer monetary compensation, they provide valuable experience and supervision which are critical for future certification and employment. Often found in non-profit organizations, community health centers, and sometimes in government-funded programs.

Entry-Level SAC-IT:

Entry-level paid positions for SAC-ITs typically involve more responsibilities than internships. Individuals in these roles may conduct initial assessments under supervision, facilitate group therapy sessions, and provide support in creating treatment plans. These positions may be available in both private and public treatment facilities, including outpatient clinics and residential treatment centers and make approximately 15$ per hour.

Professional SAC-IT

At this level, SAC-ITs have usually accumulated significant hours towards their certification and have demonstrated a capacity to handle more complex cases with less supervision. Their role may involve more direct client interactions, higher levels of case management, and possibly oversight of newer trainees. Professional SAC-ITs are often employed in settings that require a high degree of autonomy and expertise, such as specialized substance abuse recovery programs, hospitals, and higher-end private clinics and make up to 28$ per hour.

Factors Influencing Pay

Education and Certifications: Additional certifications or specialized training in areas such as dual diagnosis, adolescent substance abuse, or use of specific therapeutic modalities can enhance job prospects and salary potential.
Geographical Location: Salaries for SAC-ITs can be higher in urban areas or states with a higher cost of living or where there is a greater demand for substance abuse counseling services.
Type of Employment: Full-time positions might offer benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans, which can be significant financial considerations, even if the hourly wage is on the lower end of the scale.

Understanding these various factors can help you navigate your career path as a Substance Abuse Counselor in Training and plan for financial and professional development accordingly.

Bridging the Gap

Between Applying for your State Credential Approval and Receiving Your SAC-IT

APPLY FOR YOUR SAC-IT CREDENTIAL WITH THE STATE OF WISCONSIN

State of WI application for credential Link
- Steps to apply for credential
  - Register as an individual
  - Click on apply for a license
  - Category: health
  - License type: SAC-IT
  - Click on “select” where it says training license
  - Walk through each section of application (instructions, personal information, school information, application fee reduction request, license history, declarations, supporting documents, attestations, and payment)
  - Forms that need to be completed for SAC-IT:
    - Form 2770: Employment/Volunteer Verification Form (Required directly from supervisor)
    - Form 3079: Certificate of Completion of a 100 hour department-approved substance abuse education program (required for department- approved education program)
    - Form 2832: Completion of 100 hours of specialized education (Required for non-department approved education)
      - The state may request this form
  - Take WI statute and rules exam (online/open book)
  - Pay fee of $135

Receive SAC-IT Credential

Once all pieces from the first step are completed, you will receive your SAC-IT from the state of Wisconsin.

Accrue 3,000 Supervised Clinical Practical Hours

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH TECHNICIAN ADMISSIONS AND INTAKE COORDINATOR PEER RECOVERY COACH

Practice Dimensions

- - Clinical evaluation
  - Treatment planning
  - Referral
  - Service coordination
  - Counseling
  - Patient, family and community education
  - Documentation
  - Professional & ethical responsibilites

Participating in the SAC-IT program has been a very transformative experience for me. I feel confident and capable of transitioning into the next phase of my career as a substance use counselor. I have developed such a strong understanding of our client population and am excited to support them in a greater capacity and support their recovery journey. I am so proud to have taken the leap and enrolled in Laitinen Academy.

The start of my personal recovery journey was full of substance abuse counselors and clinical support. I had no idea what the future looked like for me, but the more that I learned more about my own substance use disorder and how to take care of myself, the more I realized I could use my experience and those skills I was learning to help others. The SAC-IT Program through Laitinen Academy had been like a GPS on that road. The tools I’ve learned and the education I received in the program not only have helped me feel prepared for this field, but they have strengthened my excitement for the opportunity to do this work. The positive impact this program has had on me is going to be a key piece of the positive impact I hope to have on others

As an individual in recovery, having an opportunity to work in the treatment field has brought me a level of job satisfaction that I never thought was possible. As I’ve continued to grow into this field I’ve looked for ways to advance my knowledge and skill set and Laitinen Academy’s Substance Abuse Counselor In-Training course gave me just the opportunity I was looking for. The comprehensive course work combined with the easy to use platform, and attentive one-on-one instruction allowed for me to feel engaged and supported throughout the entire course. The material presented in the course felt both educational and representative of real world scenarios I may encounter while working as a counselor for those that suffer from Substance Use Disorders, and upon completion of the course I feel invigorated and prepared to begin work as a Substance Abuse Counselor In-Training.