So You Wanna Be a Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant in Ohio? Hold Onto Your Stethoscopes, 'Cause We're Diving In!
Ever dreamt of helping folks navigate the choppy waters of addiction? Maybe you have a knack for listening and a desire to be part of the solution. Well, my friend, becoming a Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant (CDCA) in Ohio might be the perfect path for you! But before you swap your pajamas for a counselor's chair, let's break down the steps to getting your CDCA in the Buckeye State.
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| How Do I Get My Cdca In Ohio |
Step 1: Suit Up with Some Knowledge (40 Hours to Be Exact)
Think of this as your addiction-fighting boot camp. You'll need to complete 40 hours of education covering the essentials: how addiction works, treatment approaches, and even the legalities of it all. Don't worry, it won't be all textbooks and lectures. There'll be discussions, activities, and maybe even a guest appearance by a superhero in recovery (hey, a guy can dream).
Important Note: Make sure your education program is approved by the Ohio Chemical Dependency Professionals Board (OCDP Board). Don't skimp on this one, or you might end up with a fancy certificate that's about as useful as a chocolate teapot in a support group.
Step 2: Introducing Your New Best Friend: The Elicense Application
The OCDP Board has this nifty online system called Elicense. It's where you'll submit your application to become a CDCA. Think of it as your official "passport to helping others" (minus the fancy stamps). Filling it out is pretty straightforward, but double-check everything before hitting submit. You wouldn't want any typos making you look less than stellar!
Tip: Absorb, don’t just glance.
Pro-Tip: Don't forget to include that mandatory 1-hour ethics course the OCDP Board requires. Ethics are like the secret sauce of this profession – gotta have 'em!
Step 3: The Waiting Game (But It's Worth It, We Promise!)
Once you've submitted your application, it's time to play the waiting game. The OCDP Board will review your application to make sure you meet all the requirements. This might take a few weeks, so channel your inner zen master and be patient. In the meantime, you can brush up on your motivational quotes or practice your active listening skills with your pet goldfish (hey, they're great listeners!).
Confetti Cannon Time! If all goes well, you'll receive a notification letting you know you've been approved! Now, the real journey begins.
Tip: Take your time with each sentence.
Step 4: Time to Put Those Skills to Work (The CDCA Preliminary)
Congratulations, you've officially earned your CDCA Preliminary! This is like your training wheels on the bike of addiction counseling. You'll be able to work under the supervision of a licensed counselor and gain valuable hands-on experience. Remember, this is your chance to shine, so put those 40 hours of education to good use!
But Wait, There's More! This CDCA Preliminary is valid for 13 months only. Don't worry, though, there's a way to extend your awesomeness.
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Step 5: Level Up! Upgrading to the Renewable CDCA
After holding your CDCA Preliminary for at least 10 months, you can apply for the Renewable CDCA. This is the big kahuna, the real deal – a CDCA that lets you practice independently (with some supervision, of course). To snag this beauty, you'll need to complete an additional 30 hours of education. Think of it as a victory lap to solidify your knowledge and become an even more effective counselor.
QuickTip: Stop to think as you go.
And Now You're a Certified Badass! With your shiny new Renewable CDCA, you're ready to make a real difference in people's lives. Remember, this is a journey of continuous learning, so keep up with your continuing education credits and stay on top of your game.
FAQ: Your Burning CDCA Questions Answered (Quickfire Style!)
How to Find a CDCA Education Program?
The OCDP Board website has a list of approved providers https://ocdp.ohio.gov/.
Tip: Don’t just glance — focus.
How Long Does the CDCA Certification Last?
The Renewable CDCA lasts for 2 years, but you'll need to complete continuing education credits to keep it active.
How Much Does it Cost to Get a CDCA?
The cost can vary depending on the education program you choose. But hey, investing in yourself
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