Alcoholism & Drug Abuse Counseling

The Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counseling AAS program is designed to introduce students to a career working with individuals struggling with addiction, while also offering them the opportunity to pursue their New York State Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC).

SUNY Sullivan is an approved training provider of the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Support (OASAS). The AAS program provides the opportunity for students to complete the required 350-hour educational training and begin field placement hours as a first step to becoming CASAC certified. In New York State, OASAS oversees treatment for substance use disorders. In addition to major-specific coursework this program offers a Liberal Arts base to help prepare students for advanced degrees.

In addition to helping students qualify for the NYS CASAC, upon completion of this Associate in Applied Science degree graduates will:

• Understand fundamental concepts specific to chemical dependency that encompass historical, political, social and legal factors.
• Examine the nature of addiction as it pertains to the biological, psychological and social aspects of individuals, families, communities, and societies.
• Understand the importance of attitudes, values, and the ethical and legal aspects of clinical practice.
• Utilize best practice and evidence-based practices to provide assessments,
  treatment modalities, and theoretical approaches.
• Develop competency-based counseling and cultural competency skills in working with individuals, families and special populations with substance use disorders.
• Demonstrate the ability to fulfill all core functions of a counselor through course work and successful field experiences.