Mississippi

Substance Abuse Counseling Certification in Mississippi

There are two levels of certification that are recognized for Substance Abuse Counselors in the state of Mississippi. The first level is a trainee level which is known as the Provisionally Certified Addictions Therapist (PCAT). The full level of certification is known as the Certified Addictions Therapist (CAT). There was previously a level known as Licensed Certified Addictions Therapist, but this has been discontinued as of 2009.

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PCAT Requirements

  • You must have a minimum of a Master’s degree in Substance Abuse Counseling or an equivalent degree from a regionally accredited program.
  • You must pass a criminal background check.
  • You must be currently employed within the Mississippi Mental Health system.
  • You must agree to abide by the DMH Code of Ethics.
  • You must complete the process of upgrading to full CAT status within two years.
  • You can find the application form here.

CAT Requirements

  • You must meet all requirements for the PCAT title above and the following:
  • You must complete two years of supervised professional experience in a Substance Abuse counseling capacity.
  • You may count up to six-months of practicum or similar graduate field experience provided it was of appropriate length and that you had a qualified supervisor.
  • A qualified supervisor is someone with a current DMH CAT certification/license.
  • Pass the DMH Addictions Therapist web-based training component.
  • You can find the application form here.