Substance Abuse Psychologist

What a Substance Abuse Psychologist Does

Substance abuse psychologists work with patients to help them deal with crippling additions to things like drugs and alcohol. Some of these professionals will work at hospitals and private practices but the vast majority will find employment at rehabilitation and mental health centers where patients can receive help for their illnesses in a controlled setting. They will often spend a great deal of time talking with patients and helping to unravel the emotional reasons behind their additions. Sometimes they must help patients deal with not only the painful mental aspects of their problems but the physical pain of withdrawal as well and it's impact on their mental state. Substance abuse psychologists will also help equip patients with the skills they'll need to stay off of drugs or alcohol once they are released from their rehabilitation facility. Often, they will check in with patients to update their progress and encourage them to get back into treatment if they relapse.

How to Become a Substance Abuse Psychologist

To work in this growing and exciting field, individuals will need to complete several educational and licensing requirements. To begin their educations, students will enroll in a bachelor's degree program in psychology or counseling at a college or university. From there, they will need to complete a doctoral program. There are not a wide range of substance abuse psychology programs specifically, so students will need to take psychology courses and tailor their research to focus on the behavioral and medical aspects of substance abuse. These kinds of degree programs can take anywhere from four to six years to complete. After school, graduates will need to get certification and licensing from the state and psychological boards in order to practice. The requirements for these documents will differ from state-to- state but most require testing, transcripts, internships and professional practice for at least a couple of years post-graduation.

Career Outlook for Substance Abuse Psychologists

If you're looking for a specialty to focus on for your psychology degree, substance abuse psychology and counseling can be an excellent choice. While the field of psychology as a whole will only see about 12 percent increase in jobs, those focusing on the treatment of drug and alcohol addiction and willing to work in rehabilitation centers may see as much as a 34 percent increase over a ten year period. This spoke in job growth is fueled by an increased awareness of both mental illness and the signs of addiction as well as a large number of individuals leaving or retiring from the field. Job prospects will differ by state and the level of experience, but generally the outlook for all in this profession will be good. Some will want to work in existing treatment centers, but those who have success in treatment may want to strike out on their own and start a new business.