Burton Fischler Reflecting on My CASAC Training Journey: Insights and Experiences

Burton Fischler Reflecting on My CASAC Training Journey: Insights and Experiences

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Burton Fischler shares his Experience, Strength, and Hope Along his CASAC Journey in the EECO CASAC Training Case Study. 

Burton Fischler obtained a Master’s Degree in Psychology from New York University. He completed coursework at EECO to become a CASAC, passed his IC&RC exam, and is now a CASAC-Advanced and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional-Level II.

Burton’s soon-to-be-published memoir is The Gift: Trauma to Triumph. He currently works at a medically supervised outpatient chemical dependency treatment center in New York City.

1. Introduction and Background

Years before starting my CASAC training program, I completed a Master’s in psychology at NYU and pursued various career paths, including family business and financial services. However, a personal tragedy led me to reflect on my life and eventually pursue substance abuse counseling.

 

2. Motivation and Program Choice

 

My motivation to become a CASAC was driven by my own family’s experiences with substance use disorders, mental illness, and trauma and my strong desire to help others facing similar challenges. I chose the online format of the program because it offered flexibility and accessibility, which was crucial for me during significant life changes.

I  have a personal understanding of the challenges that survivors of trauma face, and I want to use my experience to help others heal and thrive. I’m also aware of the importance of access to quality care. I believe that the online format of the CASAC program can make it more accessible to survivors who may not be able to participate in a traditional in-person program.

I am a strong and resilient individual, and I’m committed to making a difference in the lives of others.EECO is a valuable asset to the CASAC program, and you have given me the confidence to succeed in my new role. 

I found EECO to be extraordinarily committed to my long-term success. 

 

3. Online Training Experience

 

The online CASAC training program provided a comprehensive training experience combining theoretical knowledge and practical skills. The test preparation and structured courses were invaluable, as they laid a solid foundation for my CASAC online certification and future work in the recovery field. 

The CASAC online program’s training experience was thorough and engaging, facilitating a deeper understanding of the complexities of substance abuse counseling.

It integrated various counseling and therapeutic techniques, skills training, and educational supports, enabling a nuanced approach to treating addiction. 

This dynamic learning environment fostered an appreciation for the unique histories and challenges faced by individuals struggling with substance abuse. Furthermore, the program’s emphasis on cultural competence and the need for counselors from diverse backgrounds enriched my perspective, preparing me to serve a wide range of clients effectively.

 

4. Impact of Online Learning

 

The online format allowed me to learn at my own pace, which was beneficial in balancing my personal and professional life while acquiring the necessary skills and knowledge for substance abuse counseling.

The flexibility of the online CASAC training format was instrumental in accommodating my schedule, ensuring that I could integrate learning seamlessly into my daily life. 

This self-paced approach enabled me to deeply absorb and reflect on the course material, enhancing my understanding of the complex nature of substance abuse counseling. 

Additionally, the online environment provided access to many resources and materials, allowing for a more enriched learning experience. 

The ability to revisit lectures and materials as needed was beneficial, reinforcing my learning and ensuring a thorough grasp of the subject matter essential for effective counseling.

 

5. Training Challenges

 

Initially, the online format posed a challenge for me as it was a new way of learning. I was used to being in a classroom where I could ask questions and get immediate feedback from my teacher. In an online setting, getting the same level of support was challenging. I also found it difficult to stay motivated when I was learning on my own. 

However, I quickly adapted by using strategies such as taking screenshots for study aids and actively engaging in the online community. 

Taking screenshots of important information helped me to review the material later on. 

Engaging in the online community allowed me to connect with other students and ask for help when needed. These strategies helped me overcome online learning challenges and succeed in my classes.

6. Preparation for Real-World Situations

 

The training provided a strong foundation in substance abuse counseling, emphasizing empathy and understanding the underlying pain of addiction. It prepared me to approach diverse cases with a holistic perspective.

The training not only instilled in me a deep sense of empathy but also equipped me with the skills to communicate and connect with those grappling with addiction effectively. 

This comprehensive approach allowed me to see beyond the surface-level symptoms of substance abuse by exploring the complex biological, environmental, emotional, psychological, social, and spiritual factors at play. 

Through this program, I learned the importance of creating a safe and supportive environment where individuals feel heard and understood, fostering trust and openness in the counseling relationship.

It also taught me the significance of employing various therapeutic techniques tailored to each individual’s unique experiences and challenges, enhancing the efficacy of the treatment process.

 

7. Notable Instructors and Resources

 

The program offered exceptional additional resources for in-depth exploration of various topics. For example, online databases of journal articles, books, and other materials were available to students 24/7. 

There were also opportunities to participate in live webinars and Q&A sessions with experts in the field. The multimodal learning approach I experienced during the program was very effective in helping me to learn and retain information. 

I could participate in lectures, watch videos, read articles, and participate in group discussions. This variety of learning activities helped me to understand the material more comprehensively. 

The multimodal learning approach also inspired me to develop a trauma recovery group curriculum later in my career. I wanted to create a program that would help people who had experienced trauma to heal and recover. I believe that the multimodal learning approach could be very effective in helping people to process their trauma and learn coping mechanisms.

 

8. Certification Process

 

After completing the training, I successfully passed the IC & RC exam. The course was comprehensive and ensured that I felt well-prepared. 

The certification process involved completing mandatory hours and undergoing a background check. 

The mandatory hours were spent learning about the different aspects of the job, such as patient assessment and screening, treatment planning, referral, service coordination, counseling, patient advocacy, family and community education, and cultural competency, as well as how to identify and respond to incidents, manage investigations, and communicate with the public. 

The background check was conducted to ensure I had no criminal history and was a fit and proper person to hold the certification.

 

9. Career Evolution

 

Since becoming a certified CASAC, I have grown professionally in several ways. I now handle a diverse caseload, which has allowed me to develop my skills in working with people from different backgrounds. 

I also find purpose in helping others, which has made my career more rewarding. While there have been challenges, I have learned much from them and become a more robust professional.

 I am grateful for the opportunity to work as a CASAC and to make a difference in the lives of others.

 

10. Advice for Aspiring Counselors

 

For good listeners with compassionate hearts, I encourage those considering enrolling in the CASAC Training program to embrace it fully. EECO empowers aspiring counselors to invest in personal and professional growth, and they will provide valuable tools for impactful counseling. 

The program is rigorous, but it is also gratifying. You will learn from some of the best in the field and have the opportunity to work with some of the most vulnerable populations. If you are passionate about counseling, the EECO CASAC Training program is the perfect opportunity.

 

11. Professional Development

 

In my CASAC journey of professional development, I have consistently sought to expand my expertise in the field of substance abuse and trauma recovery. My focus has been on developing comprehensive curriculums that not only impart knowledge but also address the nuanced challenges faced by those struggling with addiction. 

Platforms like Educational Enhancement CASAC  Online (EECO) have been instrumental in staying updated with the latest trends and effective practices in counseling. I will continue relying on EECO for all my professional development and CASAC renewal clock hours. They have an extensive list of professional development course offerings. They offer over 500 additional hours of addiction counselor courses online. 

These resources have also enabled me to connect with a community of professionals, fostering an environment of continuous learning and collaboration. 

Through teaching and curriculum development, I aim to contribute to the broader conversation on substance abuse treatment, sharing insights from my training and personal experiences. 

A deep-seated belief in the transformative power of effective counseling drives this commitment to ongoing education and skill enhancement.

 

12. My CASAC Journey’s Impact on My Quality of Life

 

Becoming a CASAC  has not only improved my quality of life but has also instilled in me a profound sense of empathy and compassion. 

It has allowed me to turn my challenging personal experiences into a source of strength and understanding, which I can share with those I counsel. 

This career path has provided me with a unique opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of individuals struggling with addiction, offering them guidance and support in their journey toward recovery. 

The fulfillment that comes from seeing the positive impact of my work on others’ lives is immeasurable, reinforcing my commitment to this vocation.  

In addition, this role has expanded my perspective on the complexities of human behavior and the resilience of the human spirit, enriching my professional and personal growth.

 

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How to Become A CASAC: Jumpstart Your Career in Addiction Counseling with Our 350-Hour CASAC Training Program

Ready to make a difference?

EECOs 350-hour OASAS-approved CASAC training program is your gateway to becoming a champion in the fight against addiction.

With a curriculum designed by experts, this program is tailored for those who have a passion for helping others and a commitment to professional excellence.

 

Why Choose Our CASAC Training Program?

  • Expert-designed curriculum: Dive into a wide range of critical topics, from the fundamentals of addiction counseling to advanced techniques in treatment and recovery.
  • Flexible Learning Options: Our program accommodates your busy schedule, offering flexible hours so you can balance your education with your personal and professional life.
  • Dynamic Learning Environment: Engage with interactive sessions and real-world scenarios that prepare you for the challenges and rewards of addiction counseling.
  • Dedicated Support: Benefit from ongoing support and guidance from seasoned professionals dedicated to your success in the program and beyond.

Educational Enhancement has an easier way for you to be working in the field in as little as 6 months. OASAS approves our addiction counselor certificate programs in NYS, GACA, the ADACBGA in Georgia, and NAADAC for drug counselor credential renewal in 50 states.

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Why Choose Our CASAC Training Program?

  • Expert-designed curriculum: Dive into a wide range of critical topics, from the fundamentals of addiction counseling to advanced techniques in treatment and recovery.
  • Flexible Learning Options: Our program accommodates your busy schedule, offering flexible hours so you can balance your education with your personal and professional life.
  • Dynamic Learning Environment: Engage with interactive sessions and real-world scenarios that prepare you for the challenges and rewards of addiction counseling.
  • Dedicated Support: Benefit from ongoing support and guidance from seasoned professionals dedicated to your success in the program and beyond.

What You’ll Learn:

  • Fundamentals of Addiction Counseling: Gain a solid foundation in the principles and practices of effective addiction counseling.
  • Ethical Standards and Professionalism: Uphold the highest ethical standards and foster a professional demeanor that commands respect and trust.
  • Comprehensive Treatment Planning: Develop personalized treatment plans that address the unique needs of individuals on their road to recovery.
  • Crisis Intervention Techniques: Learn to navigate critical situations and provide immediate, life-saving interventions confidently.

Empower Your Career and Your Community:

  • Make a Tangible Impact: Use your skills to transform lives and create positive change in your community.
  • Fulfill a Growing Need: Step into a field where demand for qualified professionals continues to rise, ensuring your expertise is both valued and vital.
  • Join a Network of Professionals: Connect with like-minded individuals and professionals who share your passion for making a difference.

Take the First Step Today: Don’t let another day pass without taking action.

Enroll in our CASAC training program and take the first step toward a rewarding career as an addiction counseling professional.

Your journey to becoming a beacon of hope and a pillar of support in the fight against addiction starts here.

 

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Understanding the CAGE Assessment: A Tool for Substance Use Disorder Screening

Understanding the CAGE Assessment: A Tool for Substance Use Disorder Screening

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The CAGE Screening Tool for Substance Use Disorder.

Substance and alcohol use disorder is a serious issue affecting millions worldwide.

The CAGE screening tool that’s used to screen for alcohol-related disorders.

In this article, we will look into the details of the CAGE assessment, understand its questions, scoring system, variations, accuracy, and role in identifying alcohol and substance use disorder.

What is the CAGE Screening Tool?

The CAGE screening tool is simple and effective. Clinicians use it to identify possible signs of alcohol dependency.

The name “CAGE” is derived from the first letter of each of the four questions it comprises:

  1. C – Cutting down: Have you ever felt you should reduce your drinking?
  2. A – Annoyance by criticism: Have people annoyed you by criticizing your drinking?
  3. G – Guilty feeling: Have you ever felt bad or guilty about your drinking?
  4. E – Eye-openers: Have you ever had a drink first thing in the morning to steady your nerves or get rid of a hangover?

These questions are designed to provide insights into someone’s relationship with alcohol and indicate potential issues with alcohol use disorder.

In the early years of substance abuse treatment, clinicians used the tool mainly to assess for alcohol use disorder. However, the tool has been modified since its inception, so it can also be a powerful screening tool for substance use disorder.

Variations of the CAGE Screening Tool

While the CAGE Screening Tool primarily focuses on alcohol use, some variations include questions about drug use. One such variation is the CAGE-AID questionnaire, where AID stands for “Adapted to Include Drugs.”

The CAGE-AID questionnaire includes the same four questions as the CAGE screening tool but expands the scope to encompass alcohol and drug use.

Let’s take a quick look at the CAGE-AID screening tool so it includes drugs other than alcohol:

  1. C – Cutting down: Have you ever felt you should reduce your substance use or drinking?
  2. A – Annoyance by criticism: Have people annoyed you by criticizing your substance use or drinking?
  3. G – Guilty feeling: Have you ever felt bad or guilty about your substance use or drinking?
  4. E – Eye-openers: Have you ever used a drug or drink first thing in the morning to steady your nerves or feel normal?

How Should the CAGE Screening Tool be Used?

It’s important to note that the CAGE Screening Tool should not be used as a self-diagnosis tool. Instead, healthcare professionals primarily employ it as an initial screening tool, particularly in primary care settings.

A positive result on the CAGE assessment may prompt further evaluation and diagnostic procedures by a qualified professional.

 

The CAGE Questionnaire Questions

Drug counselors ask individuals the following four questions to administer the CAGE screening tool.

The response is a simple “yes” or “no” response.

Let’s review the 4 Cage Assessment Questions (rewritten for modern substance use treatment programs):

  1. Have you ever felt you should cut down on your substance or alcohol use?
  2. Have people annoyed you by criticizing your substance use or drinking?
  3. Have you ever felt bad or guilty about your substance use or drinking?
  4. Have you ever had to take a drug or a drink first thing in the morning to steady your nerves, get rid of a hangover, or feel normal?

These questions aim to gauge the individual’s perception of their substance use or drinking habits and the potential consequences of their drug or alcohol consumption.

 

Scoring the CAGE Assessment

Each “yes” response is assigned a score of 1, while each “no” response is a score of 0. The scores for each question are then summed up to provide a total score. A higher total score indicates a higher likelihood of alcohol use severity and/or alcohol or substance use disorder.

A score of 2 or higher is considered clinically significant and may indicate the need for further evaluation, assessment, and intervention.

 

Interpreting CAGE Results

It’s crucial to remember that the CAGE assessment alone cannot provide a definitive diagnosis of alcohol or substance use disorder. Instead, it serves as an initial screening tool to identify potential signs of alcohol or drug-related issues. If an individual scores 2 or higher on the CAGE assessment, it suggests a need for further evaluation by a qualified professional.

It’s essential to consult a substance use treatment provider who can interpret the results regarding an individual’s overall health, medical history, and lifestyle.

Other tests used to screen for alcohol use disorder.

 

Other tests commonly used to screen for alcohol use disorder include the

  • Michigan Alcohol Screening Test (MAST),
  • Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT), 
  • Alcohol, Smoking, and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST) 

Each test has unique questions and scoring systems, providing additional options for healthcare professionals to assess alcohol-related issues comprehensively.

Accuracy of the CAGE Assessment

The CAGE assessment is a relatively accurate tool for identifying potential alcohol or substance use disorder. According to a study published in Occupational Medicine, the CAGE assessment accurately identified people with alcohol or drug dependence issues approximately 93% of the time. This high accuracy rate highlights the effectiveness of the CAGE assessment as a screening tool.

Conclusion

The CAGE assessment is valuable in screening and identifying potential alcohol dependency. While it is not a standalone diagnostic tool, the CAGE screening tool provides drug counseling professionals valuable insights into an individual’s relationship with alcohol or drugs. By asking four simple questions, clinicians can initiate further evaluation and intervention for those requiring assistance with alcohol or drug-related issues.

 

Refresh your addiction counseling skills and strengths with our Introduction to Diagnostic Criteria Training. 

In this 6-hour CASAC or NAADAC renewal training, you will refresh your knowledge and understanding of diagnostic screening and assessment tools used to screen and assess for substance use disorder and its severity. You will also receive 6 hours toward renewing your drug counselor certification.

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The Top 5 Benefits of Online Study for Drug Counselor Certification 

The Top 5 Benefits of Online Study for Drug Counselor Certification 

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Millions of people are choosing to study online for a variety of reasons.

Here are five top benefits of online study for addiction counseling certification and certification renewal.

Do you ever dread having to keep a commitment after a long day of trudging through life in your unfulfilling career? Do you feel you might have made the wrong career choice?

Millions of people change their careers several times throughout their lifetime, and so can you.

But you fear that your job demands too much how can you find time to study when you don’t even have the energy to spend time with your family after a long day of unfulfilling work?

If you’re reading this blog, it’s safe to say that you’re in the market for a career change.

One fulfilling career with an exponential growth rate is pursuing a substance use disorder counselor career. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the employment of substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors will grow by 23% from 2020 to 2030.

This is much faster than the average for all occupations. It is estimated that around 41,000 openings for these types of counselors will become available each year on average over the next decade.

Many of these vacancies will result from workers transferring to other occupations or exiting the labor force. However, there is still the issue of not having time to pursue the 350 hours of education to become a drug counselor when your current career is sucking your will to live out of you.

This is the reality for many of us – our careers drain our life, but making a career change seems too demanding. When will you find the time?

Going to class after work seems exhaustive. Putting your family on hold causes guilt and further longing for change. Don’t worry.

You can still join the thousands of people who have found fulfillment by changing their careers with the help of online drug counselor education and training.

Keep reading to learn why online education removes many entry-level barriers blocking your path from pursuing a fulfilling career as an addiction counselor.

Look at the five significant benefits of online CASAC education and training.

*FTR:  If you need to renew your CASAC credential or any other addiction counseling credential, these five benefits pertain to you, too! Without further interruption, let’s jump in.

The Top 5 Benefits of Online Study for Drug Counselor Certification

​​

1. Flexibility and online education

“Because you get to set your schedule and study only when you have time, eLearning makes learning not something you have to get over with, but something you look forward to!” Mark Hayes, Head of Marketing at Kintell

There are many benefits to online drug counselor education, including flexibility and accessibility.

For example, students can learn at their own pace and from anywhere. One of the benefits of online education is its flexibility. Many students can study from home, which can be more comfortable.

Additionally, online courses often allow for more individualized instruction. This means that students can receive help from a tutor or professor when needed, making the learning process more efficient. When you study with Educational Enhancement CASAC Online, you never have to worry about traditional classroom or webinar-based learning such as:

  • interruptions people talking to one another,
  • disruptive classmates,
  • disinterested students who fidget and leave the room often
  • long-drawn-out tangents (from students or facilitators), taking away from the material presented
  • presenters/facilitators/ instructors  drawn off-topic

2. Taking online classes is cost-effective

“Online learning is rapidly becoming one of the most cost-effective ways to educate the world’s rapidly expanding workforce.” – Jack Messman, former CEO at Novel

In recent years, online courses have become increasingly popular among students worldwide.

There are several reasons for this, but one of the most important is that online classes are often cost-effective, and many online courses are cheaper than traditional classroom programs.

Online drug counseling educational courses do not have service fees, technology fees, or student association fees as conventional academic institutions or classroom programs.  

Not having to get to the classroom by any specific time each day allows you to spend less time hustling around the city trying to get to school after work or waiting impatiently at home for the sitter to show up. 

Not to mention paying the sitter’s commuting costs (gas, parking, tolls, etc.). Having to hustle to a classroom after work can leave you feeling like you’re missing out on necessary family time.

Alternatively, you may have to go to school or attend a webinar that takes you away from home and family. In either case, you’re sacrificing quality family time.

Second, many online courses allow you to take multiple sessions, which means you can get more out of each.

Finally, online classes often have built-in grading systems, which means you can get your credits in less time. Additionally, online courses are often cost-effective since they do not require expensive equipment or facilities.

Many online schools offer scholarships and other financial assistance to make learning more affordable.

For example, Educational Enhancement currently works with ACCESS VR in New York State to help students with full scholarships.

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3. Why self-directed CASAC online learning provides deeper learning and understanding

You can’t teach people everything they need to know, and the best you can do is position them where they can find what they need to know when they need to know it.” – Seymour Papert, MIT mathematician, educator, and computer scientist.

 

Self-directed CASAC online learning provides deeper learning and understanding because it allows students to work at their own pace and customize their learning experience. Drug counselor online learning will enable students to focus on the most important topics and allow them to explore the material in a more in-depth way.

Learning online allows you the right to review the material on an engaging platform as many times as you like. On the other hand, classroom or webinar-based learning gives you one shot to absorb everything said during a presentation. Unfortunately, getting distracted can easily cause you to miss important information during a presentation. The worse part is that you never know what is essential and what isn’t necessary to learn a new skill when following a career path. You can always log in and review previous sessions when studying drug counseling online.

Additionally, online learning programs provide support and encouragement through alternative online study groups, accountability partnerships, and several ways to reach instructors for further explanation and coaching.

4. The quality of 20 minutes of focussed online learning

 

“Where my reason, imagination, or interest was not engaged, I would not, or I could not learn.”
– Winston Churchill

There is no doubt that online learning offers many benefits for students, such as flexibility, convenience, and cost-effectiveness. However, one of the most significant benefits of online study is the quality of the learning experience. Online learning allows you to monitor and regulate your process of knowledge, and Online learning helps you create your pathway of learning. In short, Online education teaches you how to learn.

Online learning, when done right, engages you to push forward. You can sign in and log 20 minutes of focussed online learning anywhere and anytime, and you cannot do this when waiting to get into the classroom.

A study conducted by the University of South Wales found that students who undertook online learning scored higher on assessments than students who undertook face-to-face learning. This study suggests that online learning is convenient and cost-effective and provides high-quality learning opportunities.

Educational Enhancement CASAC Online provides links to academic journals, articles, and case studies to further your knowledge of essential addiction counseling issues and topics. Understanding addiction/ recovery academic literature published gives students a head start preparing for the IC & RC certification exam. Most certification exam writers scour academic literature when designing certification exams on academic literature. If you want to achieve the highest possible score on your certification exam, investing in quality online self-directed learning is essential.

5. Why completing 350 hours of self-directed online study opens more career opportunities

“When training is done well, doors open, skills development, and performance excellences yield personal and organizational rewards.”
-Michael Allen, Chairman & CEO, Allen Interactions

 

 

Completing an initial CASAC 350 clock hour education program online shows that you take your career focus seriously and search, find and implement solutions to overcome obstacles. Online drug counselor educational programs often have more rigorous coursework than traditional classroom-based programs, which can help you develop the critical thinking and problem-solving skills needed for a successful career as a drug counselor.

As you progress through a self-directed online learning system, you’ll develop positive attitudes and beliefs about yourself that increase your academic perseverance. And prompt you to engage in productive academic behaviors. Completing the Educational Enhancement’s CASAC 350- hour online program shows employers your level of commitment in seeing work through to completion, meeting your goals, and doing quality work.

Developing self-awareness is one of the most critical areas of development for any addiction counselor. Learning to study online forces you to take a look inside to learn how to apply yourself to the pursuit of your goals. Studying online forces you to understand your values and why you pursue learning. Learning online helps you become self-aware of how to apply the knowledge you are learning to your career as an addiction counselor, to engage values intimately, and what works best for you when it comes to self-improvement, self-care, and continuing education.

By completing 350 hours of self-directed online study, you can open up many career opportunities because you show employers your willingness and motivation to set goals and follow through without constant instruction.

 

 Summary

 

“Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.” 
– paraphrase of a Charles Marshall quote in Shattering the Glass Slipper

 

The future of education is online learning. This means that people will be learning through the internet using things like eLearning (learning through a computer), mobile learning (learning through a phone or tablet), and distance education (learning from a teacher who is not in the same room as you). People are using these technologies to access information and skills that they wouldn’t be able to get before. Leaders in different fields and leaders involved with substance abuse counseling education and training are starting to see the potential that online learning is the future.

This article covered five benefits to online study for drug counselor certification.

One benefit is that it is convenient for students. Many online programs allow for flexibility in when and where you study, which can help you fit learning around your busy schedule. Online study will enable students to look at their own pace and schedule. It also allows students to study from home, which can benefit those who have difficulty attending class in person.

Finally, the online study allows students to receive feedback, one-on-one instruction, coaching, and mentoring on their work, which helps you understand addiction and apply the information you obtained to make clinical-based decisions and improve skills and knowledge.

Educational Enhancement CASAC Online is an OASAS approved education and training provider. We look forward to serving all of your addiction counselor continuing education needs. Fire off a quick email to say hi, ask a question, or suggest any content you feel will help you succeed in the field as a substance use counseling professional. about what content you would like us to provide for you

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Announcement: HRSA BHWET Grant Award Funded

Announcement: HRSA BHWET Grant Award Funded

John Makohen

John Makohen

VP/ COO

John is Advanced CASAC in NYS,  CASAC Educator, and Digital Entrepreneur. Besides creating content and improving addiction counseling educational experiences he enjoys learning, running, and relaxing with his spouse.

Announcement:

HRSA BHWET Grant Awarded

14
September, 2021
Announcement/News

 

We are proud to announce that Educational Enhancement was awarded one of 43 nationwide grants funded through the HRSA Behavioral Health Workforce Education and Training (BHWET) Program for Paraprofessionals.

Press Release from  A.Maria Mendez, CEO of Felmari, Inc d/b/a Educational Enhancement. We are proud to announce that Educational Enhancement was awarded one of 43 national grants funded through the HRSA Behavioral Health Workforce Education and Training (BHWET) Program for Paraprofessionals.  Educational Enhancement will apply the HRSA BHWET grant award to develop and expand community-based experiential training to increase the supply of students preparing to become behavioral health professionals such as a CASAC – Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselors throughout the five boroughs that are New York City over the next four year. Educational Enhancement is an addiction counselor certificate program Educational Enhancement is an OASAS-approved CASAC education and training provider (0415).

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The BHWET grant award aims to increase the supply of behavioral health professionals while also improving the distribution of a quality behavioral health workforce, thereby increasing access to behavioral health services. A. Maria Mendez, CEO said,

We are honored to participate in the BHWET program. The award will allow us to expand and enhance access to high-quality education and training over the next four years.”

The 6-month didactic technology-based program will encourage, educate, and empower specifically trained new professionals to deliver quality counseling services to those at risk for developing a substance use disorder and other behavioral health challenges.

Educational Enhancements Online CASAC section 2 cultural competence and special populations training helps you embrace diversity in your addiction counseling.
ONLINE CASAC home study allows you to study no matter what your circumstances

Eligible students chosen for the BHWET grant program will receive an integrated approach of education and training geared towards obtaining CASAC credentials and addressing behavioral health prevention, treatment, and recovery services, including but not limited to Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) and Substance Use Disorder (SUD), for Transitional Age Youth (TAY), 16-24.  Along with tuition, training materials, technical assistance, payment for initial CASAC application, and fee for the CASAC exam, students will receive all the necessary tools needed to actualize the objective of the BHWET Program for Professionals.

Applicants for the BHWET grant program must meet the minimum set of academic standards and commit to serving their 90-day internship in the underserved geographic areas in NYCs five boroughs – Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Staten Island, and Queens. Our students will receive weekly supervision and coaching from the project director and the field placement supervisor. 

Get your CASAC online at Educational enhancement and become a certified addictions counselor to help teens struggling with addiction.

Join our email list to learn more about Educational Enhancement and the BHWET program. Those with questions and concerns about participating in the BHWET program should click here.

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