FAQs-Frequently Asked Questions – ADCSI

Get the Answers You Need Before You Enroll

Choosing a career in substance use disorder counseling or recovery support is a big step—and we’re here to help you make an informed decision.

At ADCSI (Alcohol and Drug Counseling Studies Institute), we aim to make your enrollment process and educational journey as smooth as possible. Below are answers to the most commonly asked questions about our programs, process, certifications, and more.

General Questions About ADCSI

  • ❓ What does ADCSI stand for?

    📖 ADCSI stands for the Alcohol & Drug Counseling Studies Institute. We provide CCAPP and CADTP-approved education for aspiring Substance Use Disorder (SUD) counselors, recovery coaches, and interventionists.

  • ❓ Where is ADCSI located?

    🌐 We are an online program with no physical campus. That means you can access our courses anywhere you have internet access—whether you’re in California or other approved states. Students can complete the entire program without ever needing to attend in person.

  • ❓ Is ADCSI accredited?

    🏫 ADCSI is approved by both CCAPP and CADTP, the two main state boards for Substance Use Disorder (SUD) counselor certification in California.


    While we are not regionally accredited like a traditional college, our coursework and Certificates of Completion are fully accepted by both state boards to meet all education requirements for SUD counselor certification.

  • ❓ What is an RADT?

    An RADT is a Registered Alcohol and Drug Technician—the entry-level position for individuals starting their career in the addiction counseling field. There are various levels of RADT as you progress through education and training.

  • ❓ What is an SUDRC?

    An SUDRC is a Substance Use Disorder Registered Counselor with CADTP (California Association of DUI Treatment Programs). It is the first official registration level needed to begin gaining work experience while completing required education toward certification.

  • ❓ What are the new requirements under AB 2473?

    As of July 1, 2025:

    📅 Registered July 1 – Dec 31, 2025: Must complete 80 hours of core competency education before renewing registration by July 1, 2026.

    📅 Registered after Jan 1, 2026: Must complete the 80 hours of core competency education within 60 days of registration.


    ADCSI’s program meets these requirements so students stay compliant with state regulations.

  • ❓ How much does the tuition cost?

    We believe in making education affordable without sacrificing quality. Because ADCSI is fully online and designed specifically for SUD counseling, we keep tuition rates competitive while offering far more than just coursework.


    Our tuition includes:

    🎓 Coursework + externship

    🎥 Video lab mentorship

    💼 Lifetime job placement assistance

    📚 Ongoing CEUs for graduates


    💡 Tuition rates vary from time to time based on funding. For current tuition rates and possible scholarships, please schedule a quick call with admissions so we can go over your specific goals and options.

  • ❓ What makes ADCSI different from other schools?

    💰 Affordable: No large overhead costs passed on to students.

    🕒 Flexible: Complete coursework on your own schedule.

    🤝 Interactive: Connect with peers and staff in our asynchronous video lab—more than just emails or message boards.

    🎯 Comprehensive: Coursework, mentorship, externship support, lifetime job placement assistance, and ongoing CEUs all included.

  • ❓ Do I need personal recovery experience to become a counselor?

    🙅 No. Many successful counselors enter the field without personal addiction experience. What matters most is empathy, professionalism, and a desire to help others.

  • ❓ Can I enroll if I have a criminal record?

    ✔ Yes. CADTP and CCAPP require a disclosure form during the certification process. Some convictions may affect employment, so we encourage anyone with a criminal history to discuss their situation with us during admissions.

  • ❓ Does ADCSI offer financial aid

    💳 We do not offer federal financial aid (FAFSA). However, we provide flexible financing options to make education affordable for everyone.


    🛒 Students can choose from Buy Now, Pay Later options such as Klarna, Afterpay, and more, or set up a customized payment plan directly with us. We do our best to work with students based on their financial situation.

Program and Course FAQs

  • What Programs Do You Offer?

    We offer several key training programs:

    • ✅ SUD Counseling Studies Certificate Program
    • ✅ SUDRC 9-Hour Orientation Course
    • ✅ Intervention and Recovery Coaching Courses
    • ✅ Course Bundles (Orientation + Module 1, etc.)
    • ✅ Continuing Education & Renewal Courses

  • How Long Does It Take to Complete a Program?

    • SUD Counseling Certificate:

    • 6-Month Accelerated Track
    • Self-Paced Track (6–12 months)
    • 24-Month Track (slow-paced option)

    • SUDRC Orientation:

    • 7-day or 30-day format (depending on start option)

    • Recovery Coaching/Intervention:

    • Varies depending on depth and pace

  • Are Your Courses Self-Paced?

    Yes. All courses are designed to be self-paced, giving you the flexibility to learn on your own schedule while still receiving support from our instructors and success team.

Certification and Licensing Questions

  • Will I Be Certified When I Complete the Program?

    Our SUD Counseling Certificate Program fulfills the educational requirements needed to become certified through CCAPP or CADTP. However, certification is a multi-step process that includes

    1. Completing coursework

    2. Completing 255 hours of externship

    3. Passing the state exam

    4. Applying for certification with the appropriate board

  • What Is the Difference Between SUDRC and SUD Counselor Certification?

    • SUDRC (Registered Counselor):

    • Entry-level registration that allows you to work in a treatment facility
    • Requires the 9-hour orientation course

    • SUD Counselor Certification:

    • Full credentialing after completing coursework, externship, and exam
    • Higher level of responsibility and employment opportunity

  • Can I Use This Certification Outside of California?

    Our programs are designed to meet California standards, but many concepts and credentials are recognized or transferable in other states. Always check with your state’s board or licensing body.

Enrollment and Payment FAQs

  • ❓ Do we offer scholarships?

    🎓 Yes, we offer flexible payment plans and partial scholarship opportunities at certain times throughout the year. However, scholarships are not always available year-round.


    💡 Speak with our admissions team to learn about current scholarship opportunities and see if you qualify.

  • ❓ How do I enroll?

    📝 To be considered for enrollment, you’ll first need to schedule a time to speak with our program founder. During this call, you’ll learn more about the program, ask questions, and make sure it’s the right fit for your goals.


    ✅ If everything looks good, we can typically schedule your onboarding within 24 hours so you can get started next Monday.

Still Have Questions? Let’s Talk

We’re here to support you before, during, and after your training.