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Hands-On Training Makes L.A.'s Substance Abuse Counselors Marketable

Employment opportunities are favorable for substance abuse counselors, particularly for those with specialized training. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects more than 28,000 new jobs will open in this essential field by 2022, marking a 31 percent increase over 2012. Los Angeles resident Kim Deitz is one of many job seekers now training to obtain an advantageous position at an outpatient mental health and substance abuse center or inpatient accommodation.

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(Photo Courtesy of Kim Deitz)

"I was inspired to become a substance abuse counselor because I became an enabler to a loved one who suffered from this disease," said Deitz, a student at the Los Angeles Training Institute for Alcohol and Drug Counseling.

What are you doing to help make yourself more employable?

"I am currently interning at a residential facility, therefore I receive hands-on training. The knowledge and tools that have been introduced to me at my school have been a huge asset in understanding the procedures at this facility."

In what way is on-the-job training aiding your endeavors?

"On-the-job training is very effective. Experiencing one-on-one situations and performing actual procedures give the prospective counselor knowledge in what to do in a case-by-case scenario he or she may not get from a textbook."

How are you preparing for a sustainable career in this field?

"I am utilizing all the tools available to me, such as my school, the Internet, library and book stores. I am also referring to any resources that are presented to me, such as volunteering at my local church to help women who are recovering from substance abuse. In addition, I'm reviewing substance abuse documentaries and gaining knowledge from my mentors."

What changes in this field would you like to see happen by 2022?

"I would like to see more schools available online."

What is your message to fellow students?

"I would tell anyone who wants to be a substance abuse counselor that they must be willing to do the work, seek out resources and get involved with as many industry-related projects that come their way. I believe this is a good career for anyone who has the empathy to help others."

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.

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