Last Updated on June 5, 2023 by Morris Green

A substance abuse counselor is a certified professional who advises people who need substance abuse counseling. Today, more options than ever exist to fit counselor and client needs. The rise of the telehealth substance abuse counselor adds a fresh, modern twist to this career path and brings enormous benefits for everyone.

The Job Description

The introduction of telehealth to substance abuse counseling hasn’t changed the job description of these counselors. It merely adds a powerful tool—mobility.

Substance abuse counseling and DUI classes are now accessible online. Virtual visits pave the way for better convenience, greater accessibility, and positive outcomes.

Substance abuse includes but is not limited to, addictions to alcohol and drugs, eating disorders, and many other behavioral disorders. A substance abuse counselor’s job is to walk the road of recovery with the person suffering from these addictions, providing the physical and emotional support they need.

Telehealth Substance Abuse Counselor Criteria

The introduction of telehealth to mental health care increases the reach for counselors and their clients. It’s a perfect solution for clients who struggle with transportation, child care, and other obstacles that limit in-person visits. Virtual visits are also great for counselors, allowing them to provide care without a traditional office. How does it work? Let’s take a look.

To be clear, the credentials required to be a telehealth substance abuse counselor aren’t different from those of the traditional therapist. In North Carolina, you can become a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) by completing the following credentialing:

• Base Education: A high school diploma or equivalent.
  
  
• College Education: A Bachelor’s degree in Addiction Counselor is a plus.
  
  
• Specialized Training: Before certification, a substance abuse counselor intern (SACI) must complete a 300-hour Supervised Practicum in the 12 Core Functions with 10 hours of direct supervision in each function. 6,000 hours of supervised practice must be completed along with 270 hours of NCSAPPB-approved education and training with 190 substance abuse-specific hours.

Adding Telehealth to Your Toolbox

Once you’re working with clients, you’ll have the opportunity to be a telehealth substance abuse counselor.

Telehealth setups vary from provider to provider, but the basic idea remains the same. It offers mobile visits, typically virtual. You’ll work with clients one-on-one and in group settings to encourage open dialogue and support them during recovery.

Providers like Absolute Advocacy that specialize in DUI classes open the door for working with clients virtually to reset their ability to drive while also dealing with any ongoing substance use and abuse issues. The ultimate goal of a telehealth substance abuse counselor is to establish a life-changing relationship with their clients through various programs and treatment strategies.

Virtual visits allow counselors to do their part from their home or business office, often on a more flexible schedule. Likewise, clients have greater access and control of their treatment programs and strategies, giving them an equal ability to drive their outcomes.

Do you want to be a telehealth substance abuse counselor? Absolute Advocacy is North Carolina’s leading provider of online DUI classes and telehealth substance abuse counseling, plus we can assist with clinical supervision and ongoing education. Reach out to us for guidance and support to achieve your professional goals.