If you are considering a certified rehab center for drug or alcohol addiction, it is beneficial to understand the different types of certification and how they impact your recovery.

A certified substance abuse counselor must have at least a year of experience in treating substance abuse in recommended practice areas, 125 hours of education or training and at least a high school diploma. Applicants need to meet any requirements set by their state board. They must also read the code of ethics from either their state board of substance abuse counseling or NAADAC, the Association for Addiction Professionals.

There are three levels of certification, each with specific education requirements. Substance abuse counselors can be certified at Levels I and II and can be certified at the Masters level as well. Masters level counselors must have 500 hours of education or training. This has to include a Master’s degree in a human services field, such as social work, family therapy, psychology, counseling or even nursing.

For a drug rehab center to become licensed and certified, the state becomes the sole authority. In California, the Department of Alcohol and Drug Programs (ADP) has the sole authority in state government to license adult alcoholism or drug abuse recovery or treatment facilities. Within ADP, the Licensing and Certification Division (LCD) is responsible for assuring that quality services are provided to all program participants in a safe and healthful environment through the licensure, certification, regulation, and oversight of a statewide system of alcohol and other drug recovery and treatment facilities and programs and counselors.

When considering a drug rehab center, ask about the substance abuse counselors you will be working with and their levels of certification.