• Tactful, patient, and emotionally stable
• Work well with many different people
• Ability to make decisions based on data and experience
• Ability to speak and write clearly and concisely
• Ability to switch tasks and use different skills
• Available for emergency situations

Salary Range:

Related Occupations:

• Mental health Counselor
• Psychologist and Psychiatrist
• Medical Social Worker
• Human Services Counselor
• Sociologist

Alcohol and Drug Treatment Counselors help people deal with chemical abuse and dependency using a variety of therapies from interpersonal techniques to behavior modification. They administer and evaluate diagnostic tests to assess clients' progress, keep records, and oversee living arrangements for clients, working closely with and making referrals to other professionals such as social workers and psychologists. They meet individually with clients in offices or with groups in classes and meeting rooms.

Experience:
One to two years of community college training and on the job experience. Psychologists require bachelor and master degrees.

Skills - Knowledge of:

• Current methods and techniques of individual and group counseling
• Effective communication with people experiencing stress, anxiety, and/or depression
• Manipulative behavior confrontation
• How to detoxify alcoholics
• Empathy and positive regard for others
• Group activity organization

Employment Outlook:
Steady growth is expected in alcohol and drug counseling, with most jobs in urban areas. Some 10,600 will be employed in California by 2006.

Where the Jobs Are:

• Community recreation centers
• Drug rehabilitation centers
• Hospital outpatient facilities
• Schools and government agencies

Training Available:
San Diego City College:
Professor James Evans
Office: A-1-R
Telephone: (619) 388-2606

James Evans, | Phone: 619-388-3257 | A-1-R