Substance Use Disorder

Certification of Substance Use Disorder Professionals is governed by Chapter 246-811 of the Washington State Administrative Code (WAC) and administered by the Washington State Department of Health (DOH). The certification process is divided into three components. Persons must meet educational requirements, experience requirements, and pass an exam administered by the Department of Health. Persons who meet all three of the components of the WAC are certified by the DOH as Substance Use Disorder Professionals (SUDP).

The educational component of the Washington State Administrative Code (WAC) says the SUD Professional must have a minimum of an Associate Degree or successful completion of 90 quarter credits. All persons seeking certification must have a minimum of 45 credits covering specific SUD topics. The topics are outlined in the WAC. The Substance Use Disorder Program at YVC covers all of the topics outlined in the WAC and therefore meets all of the educational requirements for certification as a Substance Use Disorder Professional. Two courses of study are offered – the Associate of Applied Science (AAS) Degree in Substance Use Disorder and the Certificate Program.

The Washington State Administrative Code (WAC) titles its second component of counselor certification as “experience”. The experience requires persons to work under the supervision of a Substance Use Disorder Professional (SUDP) in a Washington State licensed treatment facility. The number of hours required during the experience is dependent upon the highest level of education already attained by the individual at the onset of the experience. Persons with fewer educational credentials are required to do more hours than persons with a higher level of education. Persons with a two-year degree or the 90-credit equivalent must complete a minimum 2500 hours of experience for eligibility as an SUDP. The WAC has very specific guidelines governing the experience component that must be adhered to by both the individual and the treatment facility. The experience component is not completed at YVC. However, the YVC curriculum does include a Service Learning element requiring students to spend time in a licensed treatment facility under the direct supervision of an SUDP.

The third and final component required by the WAC for counselor certification is the successful passing of an examination administered by the DOH. Persons who have completed all of the academic and experience requirements submit their documentation to the DOH. The DOH reviews the documentation and determines whether or not the requirements have been met. If the requirements have been met, the individual is eligible to take the exam for certification as a Substance Use Disorder Professional. A copy of the WAC is available here.

The Department of Health can be reached at:

Department of Health
Substance Use Disorder Professionals Program
P.O. Box 47869
Olympia, WA
98504-7869
360.236.2991

All students admitted to the Substance Use Disorder Program or taking courses in the program are expected to comply with the following standards:

1. Abstinence from the misuse of alcohol and/or other chemical substances.
2. No alcohol and no other drug use (except drugs prescribed by your physician) prior to attendance in any SUD Program classes and/or assignments.
3. Persons in recovery from substance use must remain free of alcohol and other drugs (except those prescribed by your physician) at all times.

The Substance Use Disorder Studies Program at Yakima Valley College prepares students to work in the field of substance abuse counseling. Graduates meet Washington State’s educational requirements for Department of Health certification as a Substance Use Disorder Professional¹. The program covers various aspects related to substance use disorder, including assessment, treatment, and referral for individuals affected by addiction to alcohol and other mood-altering chemicals.

As a result, there are specific standards essential to maintain in the context and purpose of entering the Substance Use Disorder profession. While the program expects students to comply with abstinence from alcohol and other chemical substances, this requirement aligns with the program’s focus on substance use disorder treatment. Here are some key points:

1. Remission from Misuse: The program emphasizes remission from the misuse of alcohol and other substances. This requirement stems from the need for students to model healthy behavior and demonstrate empathy and understanding toward individuals struggling with substance use.
2. No Alcohol or Drug Use: Prior to attending SUD Program classes or assignments, students are expected to refrain from alcohol and other drug use (except for prescribed medications). This policy aims to create a safe and supportive learning environment and ensures that students can engage effectively in their studies.
3. Long-term Remission and Short-term Remission: Individuals in remission from substance use must remain free of alcohol and other drugs (except those prescribed by a physician) at all times. This provision recognizes the challenges faced by those in remission and underscores the importance of maintaining sobriety.

Regarding the ethical aspect, it’s essential to recognize that these guidelines are specific to the context of substance use disorder studies. They are designed to prepare future professionals who will work with individuals struggling with addiction. While some may find these requirements strict, they serve a purpose in maintaining professional standards and promoting a commitment to the well-being of clients.

References:

1. catalog.yvcc.edu
2. yvcc.edu
3. catalog.yvcc.edu
4. catalog.yvcc.edu

Employers may require a Washington State background check as a condition of employment. Information received as a result of the background check may determine employment eligibility.

The Washington State Administrative Code (WAC) allows persons to begin working in the treatment field under the direct supervision of an SUDP prior to completing any of the three components required for certification. Treatment facilities usually refer to those individuals as Substance Use Disorder Professional in Training (SUDPT).

Please feel free to contact the Department Chair at 509.834.4541 if you have any questions or would like to talk about entering the Substance Use Disorder Program.

Applications and additional information for Substance Use Disorder professional trainee (SUDPT) can be obtained from the Department of Health Professional Licensing Services Division.

Mailing Address:
PO Box 47869
Olympia, WA 98504-7869
Phone: 360.236.4700

Program learning outcomes for the Substance Use Disorder Studies AAS and Certificate:

• Identify diagnostic criteria, apply assessment skills, and describe scientifically validated models of substance use disorder treatment.
• Identify the behavioral, psychological, physical health, and social effects of psychoactive substances on the person and their significant others.
• Explain the potential for medical and mental health conditions to coexist with substance use disorder.
• Demonstrate an understanding of the laws, regulations, and ethical codes of the substance use disorder treatment profession.
• Prepare to practice in an internship the eight-addiction counselor practice dimensions: clinical evaluation; treatment planning; referral; service coordination; counseling; client, family, community education; documentation; professional and ethical responsibilities. (AAS only)

Individuals who must satisfy background checks requirements under chapters 388-71, 388-101, 388-106, 388-76, 388-78A, 388-97, 388-825, 388-115, and 388-107 WAC must not work in a position that may involve unsupervised access to minors or vulnerable adults if the individual has been convicted of or has a pending charge for any of the these crimes.