This online program, offered through the Addiction Studies program, is designed to prepare students for careers in substance use disorder counseling. We assist both in- and out-of-state students in preparation to meet academic requirements for state licensure. Substance Use Disorder Professionals find rewarding careers in behavioral health, counseling, criminal justice, health education, psychology, social work, and other areas where their unique skills are required.

Upon completion of all coursework, students are eligible to take the National NCC AP examination. Learn more about additional requirements for Washington state certification/licensure requirements at www.doh.wa.gov.

Note: MA Behavioral Health students wanting the SUDP in WA state will also need to complete: 1,500 hours in an approved Behavioral Health Agency NAADAC, NCC AP exam. Have a human development course in current or previous coursework. 

Addiction Studies has not yet determined if this program meets the educational requirements to sit for licensure/certification outside of Washington State.  The department works to provide education that qualifies students to sit for certification/licensure examinations through states affiliated with NAADAC and IC & RC. 

Please contact the respective certification/licensing board for exact requirements in your state. Many states require students to have a practicum/internship listed on transcripts when they apply for certification/licensure.  If students do not know their state licensing/certification board, or need assistance determining if EWU’s program is right for them, please contact adst@ewu.edu.

Admission Requirements

• Overall Grade Point Average 3.0 or above. 
• Current resume.
• Statement of intent/essay.
• 2 professional references.
• Other requirements described from Graduate Programs.

A practicum option is available for students and may count toward Washington State Certification required hours. Practicum options are available for students after the successful completion of two quarters of coursework. 

Required Core Courses
ADST 501	RELAPSE PREVENTION	2
ADST 502	COUNSELING THEORIES FOR ADDICTION PROFESSIONALS	2
ADST 503	HIV/AIDS AND ADDICTION TREATMENT	2
ADST 504	ADOLESCENT ADDICTION ASSESSMENT AND TREATMENT	4
ADST 505	ADDICTION GROUP COUNSELING	2
ADST 512	PHARMACOLOGICAL ACTIONS OF ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGS	4
ADST 520	CASE MANAGEMENT	4
ADST 530	ADDICTION TREATMENT WITH FAMILIES AND DIVERSE POPULATIONS	4
ADST 535	CONFIDENTIALITY, LAW AND ETHICS FOR THE ADDICTION PROFESSIONAL	4
ADST 542	SCREENING AND ASSESSMENT OF CO-OCCURRING DISORDERS	4
ADST 544	TREATING CO-OCCURRING DISORDERS	4
ADST 602	ADST PROFESSIONAL PORTFOLIO	2
Specialized Content
ADST 548	MEDICATION ASSISTED TREATMENT	2
ADST 550	SPIRITUALITY AND ADDICTION	4
ADST 552	PROCESS ADDICTIONS	4
ADST 554	TRAUMA INFORMED CARE	4
ADST 555	FOOD AND ADDICTION	4
ADST 582	RESEARCH FOR EVIDENCE BASED PRACTICE	4
Optional Practicum
ADST 595	ADST BEHAVIORAL HEALTH COUNSELING PRACTICUM
ADST 695	ADST BEHAVIORAL HEALTH COUNSELING PRACTICUM II
Total Credits		60

Students who successfully earn an MA in Behavioral Health from EWU should be able to do the following

• adapt therapeutic responses to client stated recovery goals;
• apply confidentially rules and regulations appropriately;
• create a treatment plan that demonstrates knowledge of ASAM Criteria;
• determine the types of pharmacological resources and medications used to treat substance use disorders;
• develop an effective recovery plan that incorporates the needs of diverse clients;
• create an educational intervention plan to promote knowledge, and skills consistent with maintenance of health and prevention of HIV/AIDS, TB, and other infectious diseases.