Substance Use Counseling
Program Details
Format
Fully Online
Total Credits
1 Credit Hour
Course
SW 580
Who Can Apply?
Undergrads
About the Training
The Substance Use Counseling course sequence is designed to help address urgent behavioral health workforce needs across Kentucky, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
Created in partnership with the Kentucky Center on Addiction Studies and Research, this learning experience provides foundational knowledge, applied skills, and state-recognized preparation for students interested in supporting individuals, families, and communities affected by substance use disorders in Kentucky.
Completion of the associated coursework may support eligibility to pursue the Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor Associate I (CADCA I) recognition — a state-awarded designation that represents an important early step toward professional practice in addiction-focused behavioral health roles in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.*
This opportunity is particularly relevant for Bachelor of Arts in Social Work (BASW) students, but may also be available to qualified students from other majors whose academic preparation aligns with course expectations. It is ideal for individuals seeking behavioral health or recovery-oriented service careers.
What You’ll Learn
Through targeted coursework and hands-on preparation, you’ll gain:
- Foundational knowledge of substance use disorders, treatment models, and recovery support.
- Practical skills for client engagement, assessment, and community resource coordination.
- Workforce readiness through state-recognized certification preparation.
This training program not only builds your professional expertise but also positions you for immediate impact—many graduates enter the workforce before completing their degree. Certification fees are fully covered, making this a high-value, low-barrier pathway into a growing field.
Substance Use Counseling
Info Sessions
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Why It Matters for Kentucky
Kentucky continues to face one of the nation’s highest rates of substance use and overdose. Rural and underserved communities are especially in need of qualified addiction professionals who can provide effective care and support.
By completing this training program, you’re not just enhancing your career—you’re helping to address a critical public health challenge. You’ll join a network of professionals working to strengthen communities, save lives, and advance recovery efforts across the state.
“This fully online training program gives students in any major a direct path into Kentucky’s behavioral health workforce—equipping them for real-world impact before they even graduate,”
* The CADCA I is awarded by the Commonwealth of Kentucky, not by the University of Kentucky. This is not a University of Kentucky–awarded credential, certificate, micro-credential, or badge, and no credential will be recorded on the academic transcript. Only completed course credit(s) will appear on official University of Kentucky transcripts.