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Alcohol and Other Drug Studies Program at Palo Verde College (PVC)

Alcohol and Drug Studies Program at Palo Verde College (PVC) 

If you’re committed to helping others, value empathy and listening, and want to make a positive impact on your community, consider a career as a Substance Use Disorder Counselor. Counselors support individuals and groups in overcoming addiction, building trust, advocating for their needs, and helping them rebuild healthier, more fulfilling lives. 

PVC’s Alcohol and Drug Studies Program equips you with the knowledge and skills needed for this vital field. You'll study addiction science, the role of family and social networks, ethical considerations, and professional maturity in counseling. Our program emphasizes both academic preparation and practical experience through hands-on training in our internship program. 

PVC offers both a Certificate of Achievement and an Associate of Arts Degree in Alcohol and Drug Studies. This program is vocational, academic, and clinical in nature, designed to train students in the core competencies of substance use disorder counseling while providing a solid theoretical foundation in behavioral sciences and human services. 

Program Emphasis and Learning Outcomes 

Students who complete the program will be able to: 

  • Identify diagnostic criteria, apply assessment skills, and describe validated models of treatment. 
  • Recognize the behavioral, psychological, physical, and social effects of psychoactive substances. 
  • Explain the potential for co-occurring medical and mental health conditions. 
  • Understand the laws, regulations, and ethical codes governing the profession. 
  • Demonstrate competence in the eight addiction counselor practice dimensions: clinical evaluation; treatment planning; referral; service coordination; counseling; client, family, and community education; documentation; and professional and ethical responsibilities. 

Career Path and Certification 

Graduates with a Certificate of Achievement or Associate of Arts Degree may qualify for entry-level employment as Substance Use Disorder Counselors. However, the State of California requires additional credentialing to maintain employment in this field. Counselors have five years to become fully certified, and most employers expect certification within the first year. 

California does not license alcohol and drug counselors but recognizes certifications offered by approved private organizations. PVC’s program prepares students to meet the educational requirements for all three major certifying bodies: 

  • Addiction Counselor Certification Board of California (ACCBC): Certified Addiction Treatment Counselor (CATC) 
  • California Association of DUI Treatment Providers (CADTP): Substance Use Disorder Certified Counselor (SUDCC) 
  • California Consortium of Addiction Programs and Professionals (CCAPP): Certified Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor (CADC) 

Each organization offers multiple certification levels based on education and experience. 

Common University Majors Related to Alcohol and Drug Studies 

Students may choose to continue their education in related fields such as Human Development, Psychology, Human Services, or Social Work. 

Course Requirements for Transfer Students 

Students planning to transfer to a four-year college or university should consult with a counselor or visit the Transfer/Career Center to identify appropriate major preparation courses.

Faculty 

PVC’s Alcohol and Drug Studies Program is taught by experienced faculty dedicated to supporting student success, professional growth, and readiness for this essential field.