Substance Abuse Counseling (DAAC)
Odessa College’s Associate’s Degree in Substance Abuse Counseling prepares students to support individuals, families, and communities affected by addiction and behavioral health challenges. This program blends evidence-based counseling techniques, case management skills, and supervised field experience to equip graduates for meaningful work in the growing field of addiction services.
Students learn how to assess client needs, develop treatment plans, and provide counseling in a variety of settings. The curriculum aligns with Texas requirements for chemical dependency education and supports students pursuing the Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC) credential.
Key transferable skills gained include, but are not limited to:
- Counseling & Communication: Building rapport, facilitating groups, and supporting client recovery.
- Assessment & Case Management: Screening, documentation, treatment planning, and advocacy.
- Crisis Response: Applying intervention strategies in high‑stress situations.
- Ethical & Legal Knowledge: Understanding state regulations, confidentiality, and professional standards.
- Cultural Competence: Working effectively with diverse populations and community systems.
Whether students plan to enter the workforce or continue toward licensure and advanced degrees, the DAAC program provides a strong foundation for careers in counseling, social services, and behavioral health.
How Substance Abuse Counseling Supports Major Fields of Interest:
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Associate’s Degree in Substance Abuse Counseling
Pathway to LCDC Licensure
This program prepares students to work in addiction treatment and recovery environments while meeting the educational requirements for Texas LCDC pathways. Students gain hands‑on experience and learn how to support individuals through assessment, treatment planning, and counseling interventions.
How to Become a Substance Abuse Counselor in Texas
To work as a substance abuse counselor in Texas, individuals typically follow these steps:
- Earn an Associate’s Degree in Substance Abuse Counseling or a related behavioral health field
- Complete required chemical dependency coursework
- Complete required supervised experience hours
- Pass the Texas certification exam for substance abuse counseling
- Apply for the Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC) credential through Texas HHSC
This program is designed to align with the education requirements needed for state certification and provides a strong foundation for students pursuing LCDC licensure.
What You Learn in the Program
Students develop essential skills used by professionals in treatment and recovery settings, including:
- Counseling methods and intervention strategies
- Substance abuse assessment and screening
- Case management and client advocacy
- Group facilitation and communication skills
- Crisis intervention techniques
- Legal and ethical issues in counseling
- Cultural competence and community resources
This Associate degree is transferable to most senior colleges and is articulated with UTPB, leading to bachelor’s degrees in psychology, sociology, social work, and criminal justice.
Career Opportunities
Graduates are prepared for a variety of roles in human services and addiction support fields, such as:
- Substance abuse counselor (entry level)
- Case manager
- Intake specialist
- Recovery support specialist
- Outreach and prevention coordinator
- Residential treatment specialist
Many graduates continue their education while gaining supervised experience toward LCDC licensure in Texas.
Why Choose Odessa College
- Practical, hands‑on training and supervised field experience
- Curriculum aligned with Texas state counselor certification pathways
- Supportive faculty with professional experience in counseling and addiction services
- Stackable credentials that build toward continued education and licensure
Whether you are starting a new career or advancing in human services, this program provides the education and experience needed to work effectively with individuals and communities affected by substance use disorders.
Become a Wrangler Today!
Scholarship Opportunities:
Positively OC Presidential Scholarship
The Positively OC Presidential Scholarship offers a 2‑semester tuition & fee waiver, supporting student leaders who promote positivity on campus and in the community. Students participate in leadership workshops and mentorship opportunities as part of OC’s mission to uplift the Permian Basin.
Click Here To Complete The Positively OC Application
Student Financial Aid Scholarships
Odessa College awards more than $500,000 annually in academic scholarships. Students may apply for these scholarships through Awardspring and must reapply each spring for the following school year.
Click Here to Complete the Student Financial Aid Application
Strong Start Scholarship
The Strong Start Scholarship covers tuition and standard fees for your first credit class (up to 3 hours) during the summer immediately following high school graduation.
Click Here To Complete The Start Strong Application
Free Tuition Opportunity:
Wrangler Promise
Odessa College offers free tuition through programs like the Wrangler Promise, which covers tuition and fees for eligible local high school graduates pursuing an associate degree. Students must complete the FAFSA and meet program requirements. First‑time students may also qualify for the First Class Free Scholarship.