Certification is a form of credentialing, a voluntary regulation of a specialty within a profession. It is the process by which a non-government organization grants recognition to persons who have met certain standards defined by that organization. Certification does have limitations: it does not guarantee quality and integrity by itself. It does, however, unite and set direction for professional growth.

Purpose of Certification

The purpose of certification for addiction professionals is to:

1. Assure the public a minimum level of competency for quality service by addiction professionals.
2. Give professional recognition to qualified addiction professionals through a process which examines demonstrated work competencies.
3. Assure an opportunity for ongoing professional development by addiction professionals.
4. Enable addiction professionals to meet eligibility requirements for reimbursement for professional health care.

Definition of Addiction Professional

An addiction professional is a person who possesses and utilizes a unique knowledge and skill base to assist substance abusers (persons affected by problems related to addictions) and the public for whom the prevention of addiction is a primary concern. This knowledge and skill base may be acquired through a combination of specialized education and supervised work experience.

The role of the addiction professional is to:

1. Assist clients in assessing their use of substances.
2. Assist clients in becoming involved in the counseling process so that they may resolve problems related to the use of substances.
3. Provide experienced, professional counseling; assist and support clients in developing and/or maintaining a responsible and functional lifestyle.
4. Recognize problems beyond the counselor’s training, skill or competence, and be willing and able to utilize other appropriate professional services.
5. Provide experienced, professional counseling services as needed to the substance abuser’s family or significant others.

FCB sets the standards for several levels of certification for addiction professionals in Florida. There are three levels of classification within each category of certification. The three certifications are: addiction, criminal justice, and prevention/early intervention.

See also:

• Certification Application Request Form
• Application for Counselor Reciprocity
• Dual Certification Guidelines
• Upgrade Guidelines
• Reinstatement process
• Retired Status Information
  
• Existing Certified Addiction Professionals of Florida