The Addiction and Recovery Studies certificate is designed to prepare students to take the Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) exam in North Carolina and to better understand the processes of addiction and recovery, along with addiction and recovery counseling.
Specific Requirements
Courses requiring a grade of “C” or better: HSE and SAB
Courses in this program
| Course Code | Course | Credit Hours | Link to course details |
|---|---|---|---|
| HSE-110 | 3 | ||
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This course introduces the human services field, including the history, agencies, roles, and careers. Topics include personal/professional characteristics, diverse populations, community resources, disciplines in the field, systems, ethical standards, and major theoretical and treatment approaches. Upon completion, students should be able to identify the knowledge, skills, and roles of the human services worker. |
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| SAB-110 | 3 | ||
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This course provides an overview of the core concepts in addiction and recovery. Topics include the history of substance use, effects on society members, treatment of addiction, and preventive measures. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate knowledge of the origins of substance use, addiction, prevention, treatment, and recovery. |
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| SAB-135 | 3 | ||
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This course covers the physical, emotional, psychological, and cultural aspects of the addictive process. Emphasis is placed on disorders related to addictions to alcohol, drugs, food, sex, work, gambling, internet, and relationships. Upon completion, students should be able to identify the effects, prevention strategies, and treatment methods associated with addictive disorders. |
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| Course Code | Course | Credit Hours | Link to course details |
|---|---|---|---|
| HSE-123 | 3 | ||
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This course covers the purpose, structure, focus, and techniques utilized in effective interviewing. Emphasis is placed on observing, attending, listening, responding, summarizing, and documenting with instructor supervision. Upon completion, students should be able to perform the basic interviewing skills needed to facilitate the helping relationship. |
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| SAB-120 | 3 | ||
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This course covers processes for rapport building and procedures used to identify and evaluate individuals' strengths and weaknesses. Topics include diagnostic evaluation and placement, effective interviewing and communication techniques, and use of assessment tools. Upon completion, students should be able to establish rapport with individuals, recognize disorders, and obtain information for referrals and placement. |
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| SAB-210 | 3 | ||
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This course provides theory and skills acquisition by utilizing intervention strategies designed to obtain therapeutic information, support recovery, and prevent relapse. Topics include counseling individuals and dysfunctional families, screening instruments, counseling techniques and approaches, recovery and relapse, and special populations. Upon completion, students should be able to discuss issues critical to recovery, identify intervention models, and initiate a procedure culminating in cognitive/behavioral change. |
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Curriculum is based on the 2026-2027 catalog.
Career Opportunities
CADC - Take the exam in NC and begin working as soon as hired after passing the exam. Enhance skills used in positions where addiction and addictive behaviors show up in the work.
Good To Know
Porscha Rae Orndorf — Department Chair
- Email: porscharorndorf@abtech.edu
- Phone: (828) 398-7389
Hannah Yamouti — Adjunct
- Email: hannahcyamouti@abtech.edu
Sarah Stamey — Adjunct
- Email: sarahestamey@abtech.edu