A Company Lead by Caring People
Leadership & Staff Terminology
Clinical Staff Certifications and Titles
Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (AADC)
The Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (AADC) certification is a top-level credential for licensed practitioners with a master’s degree in the addiction field. AADCs are certified by specific credentialing bodies, such as the Arizona Board for Certification of Addiction Counselors (ABCAC). They work closely with clients to develop personalized treatment plans and provide ongoing support and counseling to help individuals overcome their substance use disorders.
CADAC - Certified Alcohol & Drug Abuse Counselor
The Certified Alcohol & Drug Abuse Counselor (CADAC) credential is for addiction treatment professionals with a bachelor’s degree. Offered through the Arizona Board for Certification of Addiction Counselors (ABCAC), professionals with CADAC certifications use evidence-based approaches to help clients overcome addiction and achieve long-term recovery. To become a CADAC, individuals must first obtain a bachelor’s degree in a related field such as psychology, social work, or counseling. They also need to complete specialized training in addiction counseling and accumulate supervised work experience.
CPRS - Certified Peer Recovery Specialist
A Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS), also known as a Peer Recovery Support Specialist (PRSS), is someone who has personal lived experience with substance use disorder and is trained to provide support and assistance to others in recovery. CPRS/PRSS focuses on advocacy, mentoring, and ethical practice. In Arizona, PRSSs are certified through the Arizona Certification Board of Addictions Professionals (ABCAC). To obtain this certification, candidates must possess personal lived experience, complete an AHCCCS-recognized training program, fulfill the required practical hours, and pass a competency exam.
CCJP - Certified Criminal Justice Professional
A Certified Criminal Justice Professional (CCJP) is a professional certification offered by the Arizona Certification Board of Addictions Professionals (ABCAC). CCJPs are required to have at least a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice or a related field, as well as several years of experience working in the criminal justice system. They are responsible for assessing and treating individuals involved in the criminal justice system, including offenders, victims, and their families. CCJPs also play a crucial role in advocating for evidence-based practices within the criminal justice system and promoting ethical standards among their colleagues. This certification demonstrates a high level of expertise and commitment to improving outcomes within the criminal justice system.
IS-ART - International Society of Accelerated Resolution Therapy
An IS-ART, or International Society of Accelerated Resolution Therapy, member is a therapist who has been trained and certified in Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART). ART is a form of therapy that uses eye movements to help individuals process and overcome traumatic events. This technique can be particularly helpful for those struggling with addiction, as it addresses the underlying trauma that may have led to substance use.
LACT - Licensed Addiction Counselor Technician
A Licensed Addiction Counselor Technician (LACT) credential is the entry-level credential for substance abuse counselors in Arizona. To obtain a LACT license, candidates must hold an associate’s degree in addiction with a focus on counseling and practice under direct supervision. It also requires passing a board-approved examination and maintaining continuing education credits. The LSAT plays a vital role in patient care, serving as a bridge between patients and fully licensed counselors.
LAAC - Licensed Associate Addiction Counselor
A Licensed Associate Addiction Counselor (LAAC) is a credential in Arizona for addiction professionals in Arizona. The LAAC credential requires a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in behavioral health and significant supervised experience. It also requires passing a state-specific exam and maintaining continuing education credits.
LIAC - Licensed Independent Addiction Counselor
A Licensed Independent Addiction Counselor (LIAC) credential is the highest level for substance abuse counselors in Arizona. To obtain a LISAC credential, people require a bachelor’s or master’s degree in a behavioral health field, significant supervised experience, and passing the exams for independent practice without supervision.
LCSW - Licensed Clinical Social Worker
A Licensed Clinical Social Worker is a mental health professional who has completed graduate-level education and clinical training in social work in Arizona. They are licensed to provide therapy, counseling, and other mental health services to individuals, families, and groups. In addition to providing support for substance use disorder, LCSWs can also address co-occurring mental health issues that may be contributing to an individual’s addiction.
LPC - Licensed Professional Counselor
A Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) is a mental health professional who holds a state-issued license and specializes in providing therapy to individuals, couples, families, and groups. LPCs are trained in treating a variety of mental health concerns, including but not limited to depression, anxiety, trauma, and addiction. Professionals are regulated by the Arizona Board of Behavioral Health Examiners (AzBBHE).
NCPRSS - National Certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist
A National Certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist (NCPRSS) is a professional who has met national standards for providing peer recovery support services. These standards include educational requirements, experience in the field, and passing a certification exam. NAADAC, the Association for Addiction Professionals, offers the NCPRSS credential for substance use recovery. In Arizona, the Arizona Certification Board of Addiction Professionals (ABCAC) recognizes and works with national certifications like the NCPRSS, ensuring they meet Arizona’s standards for peer support and reimbursement.
PRSS - Peer Recovery Support Specialist
A Peer Recovery Support Specialist (PRSS) is someone who has personal lived experience with substance use disorder and is trained to provide support and assistance to others in recovery. They may work in a variety of settings, including treatment centers, recovery community centers, or as part of a mobile outreach team. In Arizona, PRSSs are certified through the Arizona Certification Board of Addictions Professionals (AZCBAP).
SAP - Substance Abuse Professional
A Substance Abuse Professional (SAP) is a licensed professional who specializes in evaluating and treating individuals with substance use disorders. This includes conducting assessments, developing treatment plans, and providing ongoing support and counseling for individuals struggling with addiction. SAPs are highly trained and certified by specific credentialing bodies, such as the Department of Transportation (DOT) or Employee Assistance Professionals Association (EAPA). They play a crucial role in helping individuals on their journey to recovery.
Medical Staff Certifications & Titles
DO - Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine
A Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (DO) is the title of an individual who has successfully completed the curriculum offered in an osteopathic medical school. In receiving their medical license, DOs are trained to recognize the interrelated functions of the body within courses based on preventive medicine and comprehensive patient care.
DOs receive special training in the musculoskeletal system, the nervous system of nerves, and the interconnected nature of the body’s health and wellness. This training is beneficial to guests with a substance use disorder because Osteopathic Medicine looks beyond the individual’s symptoms to gain a full understanding of the impacts of lifestyle and environmental factors.
PA-C - Physician Assistant-Certified
A Physician Assistant-Certified (PA-C) is the title of an individual who has graduated from an accredited physician assistant educational program. This certification is acquired following the successful completion of the PANCE exam provided through the National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants. Washington state licensure permits all PA-Cs to practice medicine at remote sites with a supervising physician.
MPAS - Master of Physician Assistant Studies
A Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) is the degree held by a Physician Assistant (PA) who is currently enrolled in a continuing education program to learn and practice patient care, clinical care, and healthcare in general. See PA-C.
RN - Registered Nurse
A Registered Nurse (RN) provides and coordinates patient care, educates patients and the public about various health conditions, and provides advice and emotional support to patients and their family members. Most registered nurses work in a team with physicians and other health care specialists in various settings.
LPN - Licensed Practical Nurse
A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) provides supportive care to other healthcare providers, such as preparing diagnostic tools for medical practitioners to use in the treatment of guests. LPNs directly interact with guests, carrying out clinical responsibilities including collecting lab samples, checking vital signs, sterilizing medical equipment, and recording and reporting guest histories and concerns to registered nurses, doctors, and other medical practitioners.