Credentialing of Substance Abuse Counselors: A Field Evaluation

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Abstract
Credentialing drug abuse counselors has been an increasing priority in state substance abuse programs aiming to establish minimal levels of competency in service providers. Current efforts by the State of Michigan to develop, implement, and evaluate three levels of credentials are reported from field test results. Candidates earning the “Apprentice-Counselor Credential” must pass a written examination based entirely on study objectives in an educational manual containing introductory information about pharmacology, treatment process, and client rights. Demographics of this candidate sample (counselors, students, and clients) are discussed in comparison to test score results. Qualified candidates were from different regional locations around Michigan and voluntarily participated in the field evaluation hoping to earn their credential before it was officially available. Phases in the evaluatory process involving preparation of manual, test construction, item analysis, and methodological concerns are elaborated. Educational goals ultimately achieved are concerning principles and concepts of drug and alcohol abuse counseling.