Schools with substance abuse counseling programs?

I'm really passionate about helping others, and I'm considering a career in substance abuse counseling. Does anyone know of any colleges that have strong programs in this field? I'd appreciate any suggestions!

It's wonderful that you're interested in pursuing a career in substance abuse counseling! There are several colleges and universities across the United States that offer strong programs in this field. Here are a few options to consider:

1. University of Cincinnati (Ohio) - The University of Cincinnati offers a Bachelor of Science in Substance Abuse Counseling. This program provides both academic courses and opportunities for hands-on experience through internships.

2. East Carolina University (North Carolina) - East Carolina University has a Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Services with a concentration in Substance Abuse and Clinical Counseling. The program prepares students for certification and licensure as substance abuse counselors.

3. University of North Texas (Texas) - At the University of North Texas, you can earn a Bachelor of Science in Rehabilitation Studies with a concentration in Addiction Studies. This program covers addiction prevention, treatment, and recovery.

4. California State University, Fresno (California) - California State University, Fresno offers a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work with a concentration in Substance Abuse Counseling. This program provides a multidisciplinary approach to prepare students for counseling careers in diverse settings.

5. Indiana University - Purdue University Indianapolis (Indiana) - IUPUI offers a Bachelor of Science in Addiction Studies, which focuses on counseling skills, case management, and group facilitation. Students also have opportunities to gain experience through internships and field placements.

When researching schools, make sure to look for programs accredited by the Council for Accreditation of Counseling and Related Educational Programs (CACREP). This accreditation ensures that the program meets the highest standards of education in the field. Additionally, keep in mind that there's more than one path to becoming a substance abuse counselor - for example, you could major in psychology as an undergraduate, and then pursue postgraduate education that focuses on substance abuse counseling specifically. Since psychology is a more common major, this path would open up more options for where you could pursue your undergraduate education.

Finally, make sure to also consider factors such as location, size, and academic support resources to help you determine which schools are the best fit for your needs and preferences, personally as well as academically. Best of luck in your search and future career in substance abuse counseling!