Addictions and Chemical Dependency

The Addictions and Chemical Dependency Associate of Arts Degree is designed for students who wish to transfer and pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in a health or human services counseling field. This degree option provides students with the foundational knowledge regarding clients with substance abuse issues.

Required Courses & Learning Outcomes

Refer to the college catalog for a list of required courses and learning outcomes for the Addictions and Chemical Dependency degree program.

The Addictions and Chemical Dependency Certificate is designed for students who possess a degree in a health or human services counseling field and are pursuing greater knowledge regarding clients with substance abuse issues. Students who already possess their license in the state of Maryland may use these courses to fulfill continuing education requirements for periodic certification or licensure renewal. Students may verify this coursework with the Maryland Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists at www.dhmh.maryland.gov/bopc.

The courses in the certificate program will fulfill the specific chemical dependency counseling coursework required for students who wish to pursue the Associate of Arts Addictions and Chemical Dependency program.

Required Courses & Learning Outcomes

Refer to the college catalog for a list of required courses and learning outcomes for the Addictions and Chemical Dependency certificate program.

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has described addictions counseling as the work done by counselors who treat people with substance use disorders.

Addiction counselors help patients overcome dependence on drugs, alcohol, and destructive behaviors like gambling. Counselors intervene when patients are often at their lowest points in their struggles with addiction. A certified drug and alcohol counselor may also work with the families of addicts to assist the healing process. These professionals may work in outpatient facilities, inpatient rehabilitation centers, halfway houses, or hospitals. An associate-level alcohol and drug counselor may provide alcohol and drug counseling only as an employee of an agency or facility that is certified or licensed by the State and under the close supervision of a board-approved supervisor.

Wayne Beckles
Associate Professor of Social Work
M.S.W., University of Chicago
Ed.D., Morgan State University

Cecil College's adjunct faculty are highly credentialed in their discipline and have years of professional experience and expertise in the fields of addictions, chemical dependency, and counseling areas.