Upon completion of the WVC Chemical Dependency Studies (CDS) program, students will have completed the Department of Health education requirements (per WAC 246-811-030) to obtain their initial Chemical Dependency Professional Trainee (CDPT) license in the state of Washington. To meet the WAC requirements for full credentialing as a Chemical Dependency Professional (CDP) in the state of Washington, students must have a two year degree in a Human Services-related field from an accredited college or university as well as a 2,500 hour supervised internship. Once these two requirements are met the individual must pass a certification exam. Completion of these three steps (education, internship, certification exam) is necessary for the final CDP credential. This program provides the critical first step in this process.
The CDS program is designed for those already working with substance use disorders, those aspiring to become chemical dependency professionals, and those who desire this education to enhance other areas of human services such as educators, social workers, school counselors and mental health workers. The CDS program also provides opportunities for professional development studies for practitioners to review and expand their skills.
CDS courses are only for students enrolled in the CDS program, unless otherwise noted. To enroll in the program, complete the CDS program application (available at wvc.edu/CDS) and return it to the CDS program director. Students must provide a completed application for admissions to Wenatchee Valley College and provide high school, GED certificate and/or other college transcripts.
Students must have MATH 98 completed as a pre-requisite for admission to the CDS program (students who are are ready to apply to the CDS program but do not have this completed yet should contact the CDS director).
Students must be eligible to enroll in the following courses (see course descriptions for pre-requisites):
- CMST& 210 Interpersonal Communications
- ENGL& 101 Composition: General
CDS 101: This course is a general elective and may be taken by any WVC student.
Content delivery between campuses may include instructions via online.
Program outcomes
Graduates of the WVC Chemical Dependency Studies program should be able to:
- Demonstrate professional communication in classroom and practicum sites.
- Understand the professional and ethical responsibilities SUD counselors.
- Articulate the importance of understanding individual differences in SUD counseling (age, race, ethnicity, gender/sexual identity or disability).
- Understand the major psychological theories and current research/literature commonly used in SUD counseling.
- Develop meaningful Individual Service Plans based on a thorough understanding of ASAM dimensions and levels of care.
- Articulate the impact of addiction issues on the individual, family and community.
- Demonstrate the importance of self-care to promote personal health and prevent burnout.
Employment Opportunities
People with training in addiction studies find employment in many areas including traditional treatment settings (residential and outpatient facilities), schools, probation offices, corrections departments, mental health agencies, prevention programs and other social and human services organizations. Due largely to the integration of mental health, physical health and substance use disorder treatment, the state of Washington is currently experiencing a workforce shortage of credentialed Chemical Dependency Professionals (CDP). The first step in becoming a CDP is education and the CDS program at WVC meets Washington state requirements.