CERTIFICATION PROGRAM
Certified Substance Abuse Counselor – Assistant (CSAC-A)
An entry-level 120-hour certification pathway delivered through live virtual instruction and aligned with Virginia requirements.
PROGRAM DETAILS
Program Overview
The CSAC-A program is an entry-level certification pathway consisting of 120 hours of training designed to meet Virginia educational requirements for substance abuse counselor assistant certification.
The curriculum provides a structured foundation across assessment, counseling skills, ethics, documentation, and professional development.
CURRICULUM OVERVIEW
13 Required Training Domains
The CSAC-A programs cover all 13 content areas required by the Virginia Board of Counseling. Each domain is delivered through structured instruction aligned with state regulations.
Each domain includes 8 instructional hours for a total of 120 clock hours.
Explores biopsychosocial, developmental, and systems perspectives influencing substance use and recovery.
Covers identification of substance use indicators, intoxication, withdrawal, and chronic effects across drug classes.
Introduces evidence-based counseling approaches including motivational interviewing, CBT, and person-centered techniques.
Examines levels of care, service coordination, referrals, and the counselor’s role within treatment systems.
Focuses on stages of recovery, relapse dynamics, prevention strategies, and recovery support resources.
Addresses ethical standards, confidentiality, professional boundaries, and Virginia regulatory requirements.
Provides an overview of drug classifications, mechanisms of action, medication-assisted treatment, and harm reduction.
Introduces trauma-informed care principles, crisis assessment, safety planning, and referral thresholds.
Explores the relationship between mental health conditions and substance use disorders and integrated treatment concepts.
Develops culturally responsive practice, awareness of health disparities, and inclusive approaches to care.
Covers person-centered treatment planning, goal development, documentation, and progress monitoring.
Introduces group dynamics, facilitation skills, ethical considerations, and managing group challenges.
Examines prevention strategies, screening tools, comprehensive assessment, and use of DSM-5-TR and ASAM criteria.
ADMISSIONS
Entry Requirements
- Minimum age: 18 years
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Ability to participate in live virtual instruction
- Commitment to professional and ethical conduct
ACADEMIC STRUCTURE
Curriculum Overview
The CSAC-A curriculum covers all required Virginia certification domains through structured coursework and instructor-led training.
Client intake, screening methods, and assessment tools.
Development of individualized treatment plans and referral coordination.
Evidence-based counseling approaches for substance use disorders.
Ethical standards, confidentiality, and legal compliance.
Substance use disorders and related mental health conditions.
Effects of substances on behavior and physiology.
Accurate record keeping and service coordination.
Working effectively with diverse populations.
TUITION & FEES
Tuition & Cost Transparency
- Total Tuition: $2,000
- Cost per Instructional Hour: $16.67
Millennium Training offers competitive tuition designed to remain accessible while maintaining rigorous instructional standards.
- 20–30% lower than comparable Virginia programs
- Significantly lower than for-profit national providers
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE
Financial Support Options
- Payment Plans
- 3-month or 6-month options
- 0% interest
- Scholarships
- $500–$1,000 awards
- Available for underrepresented minorities, rural students, and persons in recovery
- Agency Partnerships
- Group discounts for agencies enrolling multiple staff members
- Workforce Funding
- DBHDS workforce grants
- Ready to accept and administer approved funding
Ready to Start Learning?
Start Your Journey Today
Join Millennium Training and build a meaningful career in recovery and counseling.