Individual and Group Substance Abuse Counseling
Substance abuse counseling is key in sustaining long-term recovery from addiction. All substance abuse treatment and counseling at Arrowhead Lodge is provided by licensed counselors, rather than behavioral health technicians (BHT’s). Why? Would you trust your dental care to a dental hygienist? When you have a question regarding prescriptions do you want to consult with a licensed pharmacist or a pharmacy tech?
Look closely at the staff pages on the websites of treatment centers to see if they “behavioral health technicians” on their clinical team. If so, you should ask the admissions counselor who actually provides individual and group substance abuse counseling.
What is a Licensed Substance Abuse Counselor and Why is it Important to YOU?
In the state of Arizona, a licensed substance abuse counselor is either a LASAC or a LISAC. Both are master’s level licenses.
A LASAC is a licensed associate substance abuse counselor. This means the individual has the requisite education but lacks sufficient supervised hours to be a LISAC. A LASAC must be supervised by a LISAC.
A LISAC is a licensed independent substance abuse counselor. This means the individual has the requisite education and experience and may practice as an independent counselor.
Certified substance abuse counselors differ from licensed substance abuse counselors primarily in education and training. Common certifications include: CAADAC, CADAC, NCAC. Professionals with a nationally recognized certification may provide counseling in their specialty. Some certifications require a bachelor’s degree, but some do not. A certified addiction counselor must practice with the supervision of a LISAC in the state of Arizona.
A MAC designation is a Masters in Addiction Counseling. It does not replace the need for licensure in Arizona.
A behavioral health technician (BHT) has neither the education nor credentials to provide the clinical expertise in diagnosis and treatment through counseling for someone suffering from substance abuse disorder(s). A BHT is an important supporting role in addiction treatment, but it is not intended to replace the need for a licensed counselor.
At Arrowhead Lodge we have licensed substance abuse counselors who provide individual and group counseling as well as BHT’s who support our clients in all other matters related to their recovery.
You may rest assured that your diagnosis and substance abuse treatment and counseling is done by a licensed professional when you are at Arrowhead Lodge.
To learn more about our men’s substance abuse treatment in Arizona, please contact us at 866-540-4742.
