What is the C.A.T.C. Credential?
It is a credential which identifies the academically trained counselor who is able to facilitate behavioral change for persons affected by alcohol and other drug addictions. It will signify to a potential employer or colleague that the person possessing this credential has completed the academic and experiential requirements for a certificate in Alcohol and Drug Studies, in a state accredited, CAADE approved program. The C.A.T.C. Credential will also identify a person who has practical experience in the area of evaluationand assessment, treatment planning, pharmacology of alcohol and other drugs, cultural issues and their relevance, models of intervention, family issues, legal and ethical issues, referrals and record keeping.
After you've completed the education from one of the CAADE approved colleges you will be eligible to sit for the Certified Addictions Treatment Counselor (C.A.T.C.) exam, which is offered twice a year - the last Saturday in March, and the last Saturday in October. The Exam fee is $70.00 and proof of completion from a CAADE approved college program must be provided. After you pass the C.A.T.C. exam, you need to complete and verify 2240 supervised clinical hours at a State Licensed AOD facility. These include the hours completed in the fieldwork class at college and any supervised/ verifiable work at a State Licensed AOD facility, dating back 5 years from the initial application for certification. You have three (3) years from passing the exam to become certified. If you do not apply for your initial certification within that time, you will be required to take the test again.
CAADE is one of the credentialing organizations included in the State of California Department of Alcohol and drug Programs directory meeting the minimum criteria for Alcohol and drug Counseling.
Application forms and information are available from:
Becca Porter
C.A.T.C. Certification & Membership Coordinator
P.O. Box 7297
Ventura, CA 93006
Telephone / Fax: (805) 641 1677
The C.A.T.C Certification Committee
Long Beach City College - Don Wasson
Oxnard College - William L. Shilley, Chair. Becca Porter, Michael Novack
Santa Barbara City College - Gordon Coburn
San Francisco City College - Tandy Iles
