Online Post-MS in Counseling: Addiction Counseling Certificate

Every day, drug use and overdoses affect the lives of countless Americans, their families and their communities. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS), an estimated 107,543 drug overdose deaths in the U.S. occurred in 2023.¹ The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration reported in 2023 that 46.3 million people aged 12 or older met the applicable DSM-5 criteria for having a substance use disorder in the past year.² These individuals need the help of qualified professionals to guide them through difficult times and toward recovery from addiction.

Pursuing this certificate allows professionals to gain specialized skills in addiction counseling, enhancing their abilities and credentials in this critical area. You will be taught how to provide impactful support and effective treatment to those struggling with addiction. If you feel called to work toward saving lives and strengthening communities, consider earning an advanced certificate at Grand Canyon University. The Post-Master of Science in Counseling: Addiction Counseling Certificate program is designed for working professionals who hold a master’s or doctoral degree in counseling, behavioral health, social work, nursing or a related field.

In this certificate program, you will explore opportunities to specialize in counseling, best practices in academic research, writing and the use of community resources. Throughout this program, you’ll work through curriculum centering on topics such as:

• Critical issues and treatment needs in families with addictive disorders, including intergenerational patterns and solution-focused techniques
• Signs, symptoms and patterns of adolescent substance use, plus screening and assessment tools
• Identifying and treating co-occurring disorders such as bipolar, depressive, trauma, personality and anxiety disorders
• Stages and effects of substance use disorders with a focus on prevention, intervention, aftercare and relapse prevention

Substance use and addictive disorders are complex problems that require the attention of specially trained counselors. By earning your online addiction counseling certificate, you may be better prepared to help lead individuals out of the depths of addiction, as well as to work with groups and families affected by addiction. This certificate may help prepare you to pursue positions in any of the following settings:³

Substance use counselors are typically responsible for evaluating clients, identifying underlying issues, creating goals and treatment plans, leading group therapy sessions and working with clients in one-on-one sessions. They may also teach clients coping techniques, help them find jobs to get their lives back on track and provide updates to court-mandated programs.

At GCU, we prioritize the quality of our education — a commitment reflected in our designation as an institutionally accredited university. In addition, the Higher Learning Commission has continually accredited GCU since 1968. The College of Humanities and Social Sciences shares the university’s commitment to upholding the principles and standards established by our accrediting bodies. 

For those considering this certificate, we’ve provided detailed answers to frequently asked questions to assist in your decision-making. Reviewing these responses can offer valuable insights into the program and help clarify any uncertainties.