Expert: james52144@earthlink.net - 2/9/2011

Question
IF THIS IS DUPLICATE QUESTION I APOLOGIZE...I am a former nurse, and I am a recovering addict (opiates). While in rehab I saw that many of the counselors were actually recovering addicts/alcoholics themselves who had gotten training in the field. Because of a record for Rx forgery I can no longer work as a nurse, and background checks make it difficult to get other jobs. I would love to explore becoming a substance abuse counselor and would like information on how much training is needed, etc. I'm in my fifties so I don't want to commit to a 4-year program. I feel my experience in 12-step programs as well as years of nursing gives me great patience and desire to help others. Please advise.

Answer
Dear Tricia

Most state regulate this type of counseling and require certain standards. I am sure that your background would be a plus rather than a minus if you stay clean. You will need to check your state's requirements for counseling and then decide whether you can be counseling. You don't need a license for counseling if you are a spiritual counselor, so you may want to explore becoming a minister or spiritual counselor. Good luck.