Substance Use Disorder Counselor

Certificate of Proficiency Training

Pre-requisite Courses

Prior to beginning the Salt Lake Community College (SLCC) Substance Use Disorder Counselor (SUDC) Certificate of Proficiency training students are required to have completed the following pre-requisite courses with a minimum C grade or higher. Pre-requisites are set by the Utah Division of Professional Licensing (DOPL), which cannot be waived and are required to qualify for the SUDC license in the State of Utah.

1. PSY1010 – General Psychology (SS)
2. PSY1100 – Lifespan Human Growth and Development (SS)
   • OR SW2100 – Human Behavior in Social Environment
   • OR FHS1500 – Lifespan Human Development (SS)

Please Note: Prospective students may contact the SW Program (SUDC@slcc.edu) to request approval to complete the pre-requisite courses concurrently with SW2715 and SW2910 as part of their first semester of their SLCC SUDC training.

Core Courses

The SLCC SUDC training comprises five core courses, which are listed below.

1. SW2715 - Introduction to Dynamics of Addiction
2. SW2910 - Introduction to Professional Skills for SUDC
3. SW2935 - Introduction to Addictions Counseling for SUDC
4. SW2950 - Introduction to Neurobiology of Addiction for SUDC
5. SW2940 - Social Work Internship (250 internship hours completed in 1 semester)

Course Sequencing

SLCC SUDC core courses may be completed in as little as two semesters, although students may extend longer. Students must complete SW2715 and SW2910 prior to enrolling in SW2935, SW2950 and SW2940.

Please Note: SUDC courses may not be offered every semester. Students should consult with a SUDC program advisor or staff member to construct a plan for completion prior to beginning the SLCC SUDC training certificate. A typical two-semester course sequence is shown sequenced below:

Process for SUDC Licensure in Utah

1. Upon completion of the SLCC SUDC Certificate of Proficiency training, and completion of a minimum of an associate degree from an accredited institution, SUDC candidates are eligible to apply for the SUDC license through the Utah Division of Occupational Licensing (DOPL).

   Please Note: Utah SUDC licensing qualifications were revised in 2024. SUDC applicants are no longer required to complete a national examination to qualify for SUDC license to work as a SUDC in the State of Utah.

2. If a SUDC candidate desires to work as a SUDC in another state (other than Utah), they are required to apply to sit for a national examination. Please reference the desired States licensing board to determine SUDC qualifications and application documents.

   Please Note: Upon completion of the SLCC SUDC Certificate of Proficiency training, students will work with the Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL) to apply for SUDC licensure in the State of Utah. Completion of the SLCC SUDC training does not guarantee that a student will qualify for the SUDC license, as many factors influence an individual’s eligibility for licensure (e.g., criminal background history, etc.). Additionally, the SLCC SUDC program does not offer or regulate SUDC licensure. All licensing questions must be directed to DOPL.

SUDC Core Course Descriptions

SW 2715 – Introduction to Dynamics of Addiction

This course examines current research regarding substance use disorders; the interplay between research and practice; the biological, sociological, and psychological factors related to the development of substance use disorders; and the assessment and intervention process in substance use disorder counseling. Accepted by the UofU and SLCC Substance Use Disorder Treatment Training Certificate Programs.

SW 2910 – Intro. to Professional Development for Substance Use Disorder Counseling

This course introduces students to the professional roles, responsibilities, values, and legal obligations for Substance Use Disorder Counselors (SUD). This course will examine 1) the 12 core functions, 2) NAADAC/NCC code of ethics and professional standards, 3) interpersonal skills and professional boundaries, 4) scope of practice of a SUD, and 5) the SUD licensing process in the State of Utah.

SW2935 – Intro to Addictions Counseling for SUDC

This course introduces students to direct-practice skills and responsibilities required to work as a SUDC with individuals and groups. Course topics include developing therapeutic alliance, substance/risk screening, ASAM biopsychosocial model for assessment, documentation, DSM-5-TR criteria for SUD, treatment planning, models for change and intervention, and legal scope of practice per NAADC/NCC AP.

SW2950 – Intro to Neurobiology of Addiction for SUDC

This course introduces students to basic DSM-5-TR classification and categorization, and the neurobiological effects of psychoactive drugs. Course topics include 1) psychopharmacological characteristics and mechanisms of action for psychoactive drug use in stages of intoxication and withdrawal, 2) continuum of care in addictions treatment, and 3) State and Federal prescribing laws and regulations.