2025 Best Online Substance Abuse Counseling Degrees in Connecticut
While there are no online substance abuse counseling degrees in Connecticut, there is a fully online certificate option in the field that provides you with a unique experience that focuses on addiction psychology, treatment, and ethical practices.
Key Takeaway:
- Goodwin University has over 1,600 students studying exclusively online at the certificate level, making it a popular option for distance learners. Here, you can obtain a certificate in the field of substance use.
Our methodology to find fully online programs in the state of Connecticut is based on popularity among online students, and there was only one program that met our criteria across all degree levels. (While we highlight only one program per description, it may be that the institution offers additional programs in this field.)
List Of Accredited Online Substance Abuse Counseling Schools
| School | Online Enrollment | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Goodwin University | $14,520 |
2025 Best Online Substance Abuse Counseling Degrees in Connecticut
- Online Enrollment: 1,614 enrolled
- Annual Tuition: $14,520
- Location: East Hartford
Online degree:
Why we like them: GU secures its top position by its high online enrollment of 1,614 students actively engaged in obtaining a certification remotely. GU offers an online Certified Addiction Counselor Certificate that is comprehensive and career-oriented, requiring the completion of 18 credits. This program emphasizes online coursework paired with hands-on fieldwork, positioning you to meet the licensure requirements set by the Connecticut Certification Board. The certificate is achievable within three full-time semesters.
Overview of Substance Abuse Counseling Degrees in Connecticut
According to the , Connecticut ranked as the 26th state in the U.S. with the highest drug overdose mortality. In real numbers, the state saw 40.3 deaths per 100,000 people, mostly from of opioids. However, we want to note that the state has improved from the previous year, where it was ranked as the 14th state. Still, it's sobering to realize that Connecticut residents were more likely to die from a drug overdose than from a motor vehicle accident.
In light of the increase in drug misuse in recent years, the state is implementing a range of strategies and tactics designed to address this public health challenge. For instance, the state is participating in the , a project that collects data in an effort to better understand chemical dependency and misuse across the nation. Similarly, Connecticut has set up a state-wide database for tracking prescription data to monitor individuals' use of controlled substances.
Of course, providing treatment for people suffering from chemical dependency and drug misuse has been and will continue to be a vital part of the state's overall plan. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (), there were 6,960 substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health therapists working in the state as of 2023 (the most recent available data). The mean annual wage among them was $61,100, which is higher than the U.S. average for this niche occupation. There is also a high demand for counselors in this field, with a across the U.S.
If your concern is mainly around budget, consider studying elsewhere. Check out our list of the most affordable online substance abuse counseling programs, and study from anywhere.
FAQs About Substance Use Counseling Degrees in Connecticut
What Can You Do With a Substance Use Counselor Degree in Connecticut?
Graduates who've earned traditional or online substance abuse counseling degrees at the bachelor's level are qualified to pursue several different career opportunities in Connecticut. Most of these addiction counseling occupations are nonclinical positions that don't require licensure. Some examples include community health workers, health education specialists, and community service managers.
If you want to work as a licensed alcohol and drug counselor in Connecticut, you'll need to earn a master's degree in substance abuse counseling or a similar field. Additionally, you'll need to fulfill requirements for supervised clinical practice in paid or unpaid environments, and you'll have to pass a national exam.
How Do I Become a Substance Use Counselor in Connecticut?
Becoming a substance abuse counselor in Connecticut is a fairly straightforward process. In this state, there is only one level of substance abuse counseling certification.
When you submit your application to become a Connecticut , you'll need to attach the following documentation:
- Verification of 300 hours of supervised practical training in alcohol and drug counseling
- Verification of three years of supervised paid work experience or unpaid internships that involved working directly with alcohol and drug clients
- Transcripts for 360 hours of approved education, at least 240 hours of which focused on the knowledge and skills used in alcohol and drug abuse counseling
- Confirmation of a passing score on the International Certification Examination for Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors administered by the International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium ()
If you want, you can meet the educational requirements by studying online. There are even affordable online master's degrees in substance abuse counseling.
And you can rest assured that all online schools across our lists are institutionally accredited.
Once you're certified, you'll need to renew your certification every two years on your birthday. As part of the maintenance process, you'll need to complete 20 hours of continuing education in the field.
Does Connecticut Have Reciprocity for Substance Use Counselors?
Yes, because Connecticut's licensure requirements are similar to the requirements for the highest levels of certification in other states, the Connecticut Certification Board is willing to recognize credentials from outside the state. Certified counselors from other states can apply for reciprocal licensing so they can legally practice face-to-face and online substance abuse counseling in Connecticut.
How Long Does It Take To Become a Substance Abuse Counselor in Connecticut?
The number of years it takes to become a licensed substance abuse counselor in Connecticut varies depending on several factors. While some candidates may be able to complete their formal education in six or seven years, others may need longer. Candidates may also need three years or more to accumulate all of the required hours of supervised work experience.