Training Institute Produces Qualified L.A. Addiction Counselors
Within the next eight years, more than 28,000 properly trained counselors are projected to enter the workforce to aid those that suffer from alcoholism, drug abuse and other behavioral problems. This 31-percent employment hike will likely put a dent in the growing number of companies that are having a tough time recruiting employees with the appropriate educational requirements and experience needed to work with addiction.
"Before 2010, it was not required for substance abuse counselors to have any formal education," said Letitia Keller, president of the Los Angeles Training Institute for Alcohol & Drug Counseling, an establishment she founded. "Now, it is mandated by law that they become certified."
Keller said her institute's goal is to better prepare L.A.'s counselors for an occupation, which pays more than $40,000 annually.
"Chemical dependency is a growing concern, due to more people becoming addicted to new drugs that are becoming more available," Keller said. "Our students will be able to make a difference by helping more people become clean and sober."
How are you helping to make your students employable?
"We offer an alcohol and drug counselor certificate program, in addition to a curriculum that allows substance abuse counselors, licensed clinical social workers and marriage and family therapists to renew their certifications. We also provide students with externships at treatment centers for hands-on training."
How will a counselor's position change by 2022?
"Substance abuse counselors will need to achieve higher education and offer more services to clients and their families. Perhaps, they will provide in-home and online counseling, and extend their on site services to grade schools."
How does one fortify employment?
"The best way to prepare for a sustainable career is to first earn a high school diploma, GED or higher education in a related field. Then, enter a program to become a certified alcohol and drug counselor."
What is your message to prospective counselors?
"My pointed advice to those interested in the alcohol and drug field is to possess a willingness to want to help people who are suffering from the disease. You must have patience, empathy, a caring attitude and the desire."
Sharon Raiford Bush is an award-winning journalist who covers topics of social interest in greater Los Angeles. Some news articles she has authored have been archived by the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, DC. Sharon also contributes to Examiner.com.
