Certificate Programs and Exam Preparation

Addictions & Substance Abuse Counseling

The field of substance abuse counseling has changed significantly over the last few years as a result of advances in brain imaging and a greater understanding of both brain chemistry and neuroadaptation (tolerance and withdrawal). Hence, there is an increasing tendency to recognize a variety of repetitive behaviors that result in an intemperate relationship with an activity as in addiction. There are adverse biological, social, or psychological consequences for the person engaging in such behaviors and process addictions such as gambling, compulsive shopping, sexual and pornography addiction, food addiction, and internet, cell phone and texting excesses. There will be an increasing need for treatment of these excessive behaviors.

About

This certificate is primarily designed for graduate students in rehabilitation counseling, mental health counseling, social work, psychology or other human services disciplines or for human services professionals who desire to learn about addictions and substance abuse counseling.

CEU/Licensure Credit: This graduate certificate program is approved for education and training by the Certification Board for Addictions Professionals of Florida (CBAPF approved provider #179A).

courses, requirements and admission information

For information courses, requirements and admission information, visit the USF Academic Catalog.

Contact

For more information on the Addictions and Substance Abuse Counseling, please contact:

Vicky Buckles, PhD
Addictions and Substance Abuse Counseling Certificate Director
Rehabilitation and Mental Health Counseling Program
University of South Florida
13301 Bruce B. Downs Blvd, MHC 1632
Tampa, FL 33612
Phone: (813) 974-6641
Fax: (813) 974-8080
Email