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Step 1
Enroll in a drug and alcohol counselor program at a college.
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Step 2
Take college courses in psychology and criminal justice if you attend a college that does not have a drug and alcohol counselor program. Psychology classes educate you on psychiatric conditions that addicts may have. Criminal justice classes educate you about popular drugs and drug laws.
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Step 3
Earn an associates degree, bachelors degree or masters degree in psychology. Every state has different educational requirements for drug and alcohol counselors. Ask a college counselor at a school that has a drug and alcohol counselor program about the educational requirements in your state. Most states only require a certain amount of college credits or work experience. Even if a degree is not required, it is still a good idea. A degree opens up more job opportunities with higher paying wages. Most states have a certification or license that drug and alcohol counselors can obtain after passing a prerequisite test. Certification or licensing is usually not required, but it, too, will open up job opportunities with higher paying wages.
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Step 4
Find a volunteer or intern position. Volunteer and intern positions give you the experience you need. Many times these positions lead to a paying job. You can work as a volunteer or intern while you are still in school.
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Step 5
Find a job working as a drug and alcohol counselor. Use connections that you have made along the way. Your connections may know of a job opening or they may be able to give you a good reference that will lead to your getting hired.
