The online Master of Science in addiction psychology program through ASU’s Department of Psychology is designed to support preparation for addiction counseling licensure in many states.
Licensure requirements vary by state and by level of practice. In Arizona, addiction counselors may pursue multiple licensure pathways depending on education level, supervised experience and examination requirements.
The Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners currently recognizes three addiction counseling licensure levels:
- Licensed Addiction Counselor Technician (LACT)
- Licensed Associate Addiction Counselor (LAAC)
- Licensed Independent Addiction Counselor (LIAC)
Licensed Addiction Counselor Technician (LACT)
Typical requirements include:
- Associate’s or bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university in a behavioral health science program
- Coursework covering the seven core content areas included in ASU’s online addiction and substance-use related disorders graduate certificate
- Passing score on an approved licensure examination from IC&RC, NAADAC or NBCC
Estimated salary range: $28,000–$50,000 annually*
Licensed Associate Addiction Counselor (LAAC)
Arizona offers multiple pathways to LAAC licensure depending on education and supervised experience.
Applicants with a bachelor’s degree
Typical requirements include:
- Current LACT credential
- Bachelor’s degree in a behavioral health science program from a regionally accredited institution
- 3,200 hours of supervised substance abuse counseling experience completed over at least 24 months
Applicants with a master’s degree
Typical requirements include:
- Master’s degree or higher in a behavioral health science program from a regionally accredited institution
- Coursework covering the seven core content areas included in ASU’s online addiction and substance-use related disorders graduate certificate
- 300 hours of supervised practicum completed within the graduate program
- Passing score on an approved licensure examination from IC&RC, NAADAC or NBCC
Estimated salary range: $40,000–$60,000 annually*
Licensed Independent Addiction Counselor (LIAC)
Typical requirements include:
- Master’s degree or higher in a behavioral health science program from a regionally accredited institution
- Coursework covering the seven core content areas included in ASU’s online addiction and substance-use related disorders graduate certificate
- 300 hours of supervised practicum completed within the graduate program
Passing score on an approved licensure examination from IC&RC, NAADAC or NBCC - 3,200 hours of supervised substance abuse counseling experience completed over at least 24 months
Estimated salary range: $40,000–$75,000 annually*
*Salary estimates vary by state, employer and experience level.
Important licensure information
Licensure and certification requirements vary by state and are subject to change. Before applying for certification, licensure or renewal, students should review current requirements with their state licensing board.