The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #68671

Gerard J. Schmidt, MA, LPC, MAC, Valley HealthCare System, 301 Scott Avenue, Morgantown, WV 26508, 304-293-5233, gschmidt@valleyhealthcare.org

The purpose of this study was to identify the factors related to new counselors’ selection of and potential for a long-term career in the substance abuse field. The study also collected information on the training and characteristics of new counselors, the clients they serve, the extent to which they encounter clients with mental health co-morbidities, their job satisfaction and access to and need for substance abuse related resources. The survey results are based on 140 completed interviews that were conducted using NAADAC’s Practitioner Services Network (PSN).

Findings indicate that new counselors are predominantly female, white and, on average, 42 years old. Compared to the overall NAADAC membership, less experienced members have completed less formal education and hold fewer substance abuse certifications. They nevertheless have a substantial number of years of prior work experience. New addiction counselors are primarily attracted to the field as a result of personal factors rather than factors such as salary or benefits. Though many new counselors have access to professional development resources, others lack adequate access or are unaware of the resources available. Early career members expressed the most satisfaction with the nature of the tasks they perform and their work environments, while they expressed dissatisfaction with salary and workload. Despite these issues, a majority of respondents indicated a likelihood of continuing in the field. The findings identify approaches for the substance abuse field to tailor its outreach efforts, resources, and retention strategies to better fit with the needs and interests of new counselors.

Learning Objectives:

At the conclusion of the session, the participant (learner) in this session will be able to: (
• Identify differences in the characteristics, qualifications, practices and client severity of early career and more experienced substance abuse counselors. (
• Prioritize the resource and professional development needs of new counselors in order to more effectively design trainings and other resources that are well suited to the needs of this group. (
• Identify the most salient factors that should be addressed when developing strategies to attract and retain new counselors in the substance abuse field.

Keywords: Mental Health, Substance Abuse

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Center for Substance Abuse Treatment. The National Association of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors.
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.