A CSC-AD is the associate-level alcohol and drug counselor credential issued by the Board. A CSC-AD may provide only alcohol and drug counseling as an employee of an agency or facility that is certified or licensed by the State under the close supervision of a Board-approved supervisor. A CSC-AD may not provide supervision or practice independently. See COMAR 10.58.07.08​.

Who is eligible for certification?

To be eligible for certification as a CSC-AD, one must have an associate’s degree from a regionally accredited educational institution approved by the Board, in a health and human services counseling field or a field deemed substantially equivalent by the Board. In addition, one must have completed specific coursework, including an internship, and passed the NCAC I and the Maryland law exam. See COMAR 10.58.07.08​ for complete requirements.

What is the process to obtain certification as a CSC-AD? 

To obtain certification as a CSC-AD, complete and submit the application (with all required documentation) to the Board. Along with the application, include a copy of the receipt from your criminal history background check.  After the Board reviews and approves your application and criminal history background check, you will receive a letter from the Board authorizing you to sit for the NCAC I and Maryland law exam. Once the Board receives official notification that you passed both exams, a certificate will be issued. If your application is incomplete or you are deemed ineligible, you will be notified by the Board. Incomplete applications take longer to process. If you do not pass one or both exams, you must contact the Board for authorization to re-take the exam(s). 

When does my certification expire?

Certificates must be renewed every two years. Renewals are obtained online through the Board’s website. See COMAR 10.58.07.07​ for requirements for renewal.