LEXINGTON, Ky. — The Substance Use Counseling Undergraduate Training Program at the University of Kentucky College of Social Work (CoSW) is now accepting applications for its Spring cycle, offering students a direct pathway into Kentucky’s behavioral health workforce at a time of critical need.
Developed in partnership with the Kentucky Center on Addiction Studies and Research, the program provides students with state-recognized training, hands-on preparation, and structured study support that strengthens readiness for Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor Associate I (CADCA I) recognition—an important milestone toward becoming a licensed addiction counselor in the Commonwealth.
For December 2026 graduate Ta’Niya Rucker, the program helped bridge her academic experience with her professional goals in substance use recovery.
Rucker earned her Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BASW) in December 2025 and is a member of the program’s inaugural cohort. Encouraged by BASW Program Director and mentor Dr. Shelita Jackson, she enrolled in the training program to gain early, hands-on preparation in substance use counseling.
“Dr. J was a mentor who really encouraged me to see what was possible,” Rucker said. “The training program was great experience and helped me focus on preparing for the CADCA I exam. It also made me feel more confident moving into the field, towards my goals.”
Her experience reflects how early, targeted workforce training can help students build confidence and readiness for professional certification and practice.
Addressing Kentucky’s Behavioral Health Workforce Needs
The Substance Use Counseling Undergraduate Training Program was created in response to ongoing shortages in substance use counseling and behavioral health services across Kentucky.
Through targeted coursework and structured preparation, students gain:
- Foundational knowledge of substance use disorders, treatment models and recovery supports
- Practical skills in client engagement, assessment and community resource coordination
- Workforce readiness through preparation for state-recognized certification
Upon completion of the program, students are prepared to sit for the CADCA I exam, an important step toward licensure as an addiction counselor in Kentucky. Certification fees are fully covered, reducing financial barriers and allowing students to focus on building professional skills.
Many participants are able to enter the behavioral health workforce before completing their degree.
While the program is especially beneficial for students in the UK BASW program, it is also open to qualified students from other disciplines whose academic backgrounds align with program goals. The training is well suited for those pursuing careers in substance use counseling, healthcare, behavioral health or community-based care.
How to Apply
The Spring application cycle is now open.
- Application deadline: February 15
An informational session will be held January 29 for students interested in learning more about the program, certification pathway and eligibility requirements.
- Info session details: https://socialwork.uky.edu/event/substance-use-counseling-undergraduate-training-program-info-session/
Students interested in building real-world skills and preparing for meaningful work in substance use recovery are encouraged to apply.
