If you have thought about being a drug and alcohol counselor in Texas, there are a few things you should know. It is an admirable profession and a lot of people go into it because at some point in the past, a counselor or center helped make a difference in the life of someone they loved 

In Texas, you need an under graduate degree )Associates Degree) in psychology, pass a state exam, pass a background check and fulfill the required number of clinical hours that is mandated. All of this is the usual requirements no matter which part of drug and alcohol counseling you actually settle into.

When you are “interning” or training on the job, it can count towards college hours and credits in the state of Texas. You will be gaining experience and therefore knowledge which is what educational courses are about, knowledge. You will have to take oral and written exams and write an essay or term paper so that it is understood that you do know what you are doing and what is meant and required for the career you are seeking.

After you have met the required number of hours in training, the college credits and done an internship as well as completed the preparation course for the licensing exam, you will then be able to take the state exam. It is a very thorough exam and when you pass it, you will have good reason to be proud because it shows that you do understand the job you are desiring.

Whatever your motivation, remember that this is a customer service position. You are truly helping a person on one of the deepest levels he or she can be helped on. You are making a difference literally in someone’s life. You are to be commended for taking on such a challenge and going into such a wonderful field.

Whether you have had yourself or a family member or friend affected by a drug or alcohol addiction or whether you simply choose to become a counselor because it has been a secret dream of yours, know that every day in some small or big way, you are helping those around you and therefore their future generations as well.

Texas is strict on its guidelines but when you become a drug or alcohol counselor here, know that you are giving it your all because you were put through one of the strictest state guidelines there are in the U.S. You are the best because we require the best.