Counselors are licensed in Minnesota as Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselors (LADCs) by the Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy (BBHT). Please visit their Web site at www.bbht.state.mn.us for a wealth of information, including downloadable forms and frequently asked questions.
Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselors (LADCs) observe, describe, evaluate, interpret, and modify human behavior as it relates to the harmful or pathological use or abuse of alcohol or other drugs. Work settings include private treatment facilities (inpatient and outpatient), withdrawal management facilities, half-way houses, correctional facilities, schools, hospitals, and government facilities. The Minnesota Department of Health has been licensing alcohol and drug counselors (LADCs) since 1998. Since then, over 1,500 individuals have applied for licensure. Until March, 2000 applicants could qualify for a license by documenting specific alcohol and drug counselor training and professional experience, and by passing the required written and oral examinations. The Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy began licensing LADCs on July 1, 2005.
LADCs must document 40 clock hours of continuing education every two years. In addition to traditional topics, the requirements emphasize education in substance use issues as they affect members of ethnic and minority communities, including African Americans, Asian Americans, Chicano/Latinos, Native Americans, deaf or hard of hearing individuals, and persons with disabilities.
BBHT Staff
Samantha Strehlo 612.548.2177 or samantha.strehlo@state.mn.us
LADC Licensing Coordinator