By Monica Farrar, MS CRC; CASAC-T
Interested in a new career and helping others? How about a good paying job that can lead to positive outcomes for many? If so, read on about a Buffalo area program that is making a big difference in people’s lives.
Because alcohol and substance abuse are major problems in Western New York (WNY) and elsewhere there is a growing demand for professionals to provide counseling and support for those dealing with these difficult addictions. One of the certifications in this area is for Credentialed Alcohol and Substance Abuse Counselors (CASAC.)
What is a CASAC? According to the New York State Office of Alcohol and Substance Abuse Services (OASAS), a CASAC is someone who performs diagnostic assessments, evaluations, interventions, and referral and alcoholism and/or substance abuse counseling in individual and group settings.
Why become a CASAC? Many who live in WNY have been deeply affected by the downturn in the economy, and alcoholism and substance abuse have become a growing problem. Statistics show that 1 out of every 10 people in our area struggle with an addiction. William R. Burgin, Executive Director of Buffalo’s Alcohol and Drug Dependency Services was quoted as saying there’s been a huge increase in abuse and dependence for prescription drugs locally. And according to the national Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta, about a third of all high school seniors used an illegal drug over the past year, and more than 10 percent used a narcotic painkiller for nonmedical reasons. Almost 41 percent of high school students consumed at least one alcoholic drink in the past month and 25 percent were offered, sold, or given an illicit drug.
New York Career Zone (www.nycareerzone.org) lists substance abuse counselors as one of the Top 10 growing professions. They estimate these counselors serve 110,000 people each day. The average wage is $29,270 per year for entry-level workers and $48,960 for experienced workers. It is estimated that in 2016 there will be almost 11,000 CASACS, representing an increase of 200 jobs each year.
Those wishing to gain certification as a CASAC can take courses at The Resource Training Center, Inc., a non-profit organization that supports chemical dependency counseling by providing high quality training in alcoholism and substance abuse. The Center also provides support services to individuals who may experience difficulty gaining employment due to their history of alcohol and drug use, incarceration related to addictions, or complications related to addictive disorders within the family.
Donna Mae DePola, President and Founder of The Training Resource Center, says, “The bottom line is addiction affects EVERYONE. It doesn’t matter if you’ve experienced it personally, or if it’s someone you care about.”
We provide a schedule that accommodates the many professionals who attend classes held at the Harlem Road Community Center in Amherst on Tuesday evenings from 6-10PM. Program candidates must be 18 and have a high school or General Equivalency Diploma. Individuals with a Master’s Degree have the opportunity to take classes online. Tuition is approximately $14.00 per hour, and monthly or other payment plans are available.
Our goal is to help you experience the rewards of helping others, and to strengthen your own commitment to achieving your goals. To learn more about this opportunity call The Training Resource Center at 716-983-2258
