Addiction counseling means the utilization of special skills to assist persons with addictions, and to assist such persons’ families and friends to achieve resolution of addiction through the exploration of the disease and its ramifications, the examination of attitudes and feelings, the consideration of alternative solutions and decision making, as these relate specifically to addiction. Evaluation and assessment, treatment including treatment plan development, crisis intervention, referral, record keeping and clinical consultation specifically related to addiction are within the scope of addiction counseling. Additionally, at the clinical level of licensure, addiction counseling includes independent practice and the diagnosis and treatment of substance use disorders.
