How do I become a Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC)?

 Regulations creating a consolidated credential, the Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC), became effective March 19, 1997. The CASAC credential consolidates the two previous credentials, the Credentialed Alcoholism Counselor (CAC) and the Credentialed Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC), into a single counselor credential. By June 1997, all previous CACs and CSACs in New York State were automatically 'grandparented' as CASACs.

New counselors seeking to become credentialed in New York State must meet new eligibility requirements and pass a written examination developed by the International Certification and Reciprocity Consortium/Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse, Inc. (IC&RC), and administered by the New York State Office of Alocholism and Substance Abuse Services (OASAS).

Each credential is valid for a period of two years. A renewal application will be sent at least 120 days prior to the credential expiration date. The completed renewal application and any required supporting documentation must be submitted to OASAS at least 90 days prior to the credential expiration date.

As a member of the IC&RC, OASAS offers reciprocity to alcoholism and substance abuse counselors who hold a current, valid certificate, credential, or license from another IC&RC certifying body. In addition, CASACs are eligible for reciprocity from other IC&RC member boards.

For more information regarding the CASAC, go to the OASAS Credentialing Pages or contact:

New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services
Credentialing Unit
1450 Western Avenue
Albany, NY 12203-3526
1-800-482-9564

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Counselor Credentialing in New York State
Requirements, regulations and exam schedule for the CASAC credential.
URL: http://www.oasas.ny.gov/sqa/credentialing/CASACCover.cfm
Contact: Credentialing Unit
E-mail:Credentialing@oasas.ny.gov
Phone: 1-800-482-9564