Addiction can have a devastating effect in all sectors of society. It can destroy families, hamper employment, and completely alter the lives of anyone involved. But the good thing is, addiction is a treatable disease that can be curbed with the right treatment.
For someone who has had his time serving in a substance rehabilitation center, and even for those who haven’t, certification can be a good path to be able to give back by getting a drug and alcohol training so he can contribute to the betterment of society.
Treatment services careers have better outlook recently, because people are becoming more aware of the fact that addiction can be effectively treated just like any other disease. Additionally, people who have been in the addiction service industry for such a long time are retiring which explains the need for creating new jobs to meet the nation’s demands.
One critical trait of a person who goes through a drug and alcohol treatment training course is being empathetic and passionate about serving those who are amid an addiction. It is important that they receive sufficient training so they are qualified to provide an effective and quality treatment for those who are in need.
Why is certification needed?
Certification is basically required by some states for people who would like to work in a substance abuse treatment program that is accredited by the state. A certified counselor carries the knowledge, skills, work experience, and training that is needed and what separates him from other addiction health care professionals working in the same institution. Additionally, counselor certification comprises of several levels depending on where the addiction counselor is settled.
In addition, the government now requires health care professionals’ certification to be able to work in health care facilities. This proves to others that you have adequate education, skills, and training needed to effectively do your job.
Should you disclose your self-recovery?
This has long since been a standing controversy in the addiction treatment field. If you are a recovering addict, should you let your teachers and potential employers know? In most instances, it can possibly be a double edged sword. In one aspect, it can inspire other people who are in recovery themselves to do better and change their lives around.
These people who aspire to be addiction counselors usually have good motives. They may want to give back to the community as a way of showing gratefulness for what was shown to them. Or perhaps they have become passionate about recovery. Or even if they have had a bad experience and want to do things in a different manner so others would not experience what they did. There is no denying that motivation can be a significant aid in delivering passion, energy, and personal involvement in the process.
Although, it can have some negative impact as those addicts who aspire to be counselors may be looking for a way of avoiding their own issues which can be a threat to their own personal recovery. Nonetheless, giving it a thorough consideration and trying to counterbalance all aspects can help whether a disclosure can be beneficial or not.