Alcohol and Drug Counselor Requirements in Kentucky
Kentucky offers three addiction counselor credentials: CADC (bachelor’s level), LADC (30-hour master’s level), and LCADC (60-hour master’s level for independent practice). All require 4,000+ supervised hours, 200-270 classroom hours, and passing IC&RC exams. Timeline: 18-36 months, depending on your current education level.
You’ll find them working with everyday people and those living on the margins. They’re in rehab facilities in the downtown corridors of Louisville and Lexington and dotted throughout the surrounding suburbs. You’ll find them in a few community clinics and social services agencies across the sprawling, notoriously underserved Appalachian region.
Kentucky’s alcohol and drug counselors are the first line and the last hope for people with substance use disorder ready to make the arduous journey toward a life of recovery. The opioid crisis has hit Kentucky particularly hard, with rural communities facing limited access to treatment resources. But there’s hope: Kentucky’s counselors are making a real difference, and with the proper training and education, you can be part of the effort to save Kentucky communities one person at a time.
This guide walks you through Kentucky’s three certification levels, helps you choose the right path for your background, and shows you exactly what it takes to become an addiction counselor. Whether you’re fresh out of college or a seasoned professional looking to specialize in addiction treatment, you’ll find straightforward answers here.
Kentucky Addiction Counselor Credentials Overview
Kentucky alcohol and drug counselors are certified by the Kentucky Board of Alcohol and Drug Counselors, which is part of the Public Protection Cabinet, Department of Professional Licensing. The Board recognizes three distinct credential levels, each building on the previous one in terms of education requirements and practice authority.
Here’s what sets each credential apart:
Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) – This is your entry point if you have a bachelor’s degree. CADC counselors work under supervision, providing direct client services in treatment facilities, outpatient programs, and community-based organizations. You’ll conduct assessments, facilitate group therapy, and help clients develop recovery plans, all while building the experience you need to advance.
Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC) – With a 30-hour master’s degree (30 semester hours beyond a bachelor’s degree, forming a complete master’s program), you’ll qualify for LADC status. This credential recognizes advanced clinical training but still requires you to practice under supervision. LADC counselors take on more complex cases and often serve as senior staff in treatment programs.
Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) – This is Kentucky’s highest addiction counseling credential. With a 60-hour master’s degree and proven clinical competency, LCADC counselors can diagnose clients, provide independent treatment, open private practices, and supervise other counselors. If you want full clinical autonomy, this is your goal.
All three credentials require completion of the same core competency areas: screening and assessment, treatment planning, counseling skills, and professional ethics. What changes between levels is the depth of education required and the degree of independent practice you’re authorized to provide.
Choosing Your Path: Which Credential Is Right for You?
Your choice depends on where you are now and where you want to go. Here’s how to think about it:
Start with CADC if:
- You have a bachelor’s degree (in any field)
- You want to start working in the field quickly
- You’re exploring whether addiction counseling is proper for you
- You plan to gain experience while deciding whether to pursue a master’s degree
- You’re comfortable working under supervision for now
Most CADC counselors complete their requirements in 18-24 months while working full-time. You’ll earn income while building toward full licensure, and many employers will support your supervision hours as part of your job.
Move to LADC if:
- You already have or are pursuing a 30-hour master’s in counseling, social work, or a related field
- You want recognition for graduate-level training
- You’re committed to clinical work but not yet ready for independent practice
- You want to work in settings that prefer or require master’s-level credentials
LADC serves as a bridge credential. You’ll have more opportunities than CADC counselors, but you’ll still work under supervision while you build toward LCADC.
Aim for LCADC if:
- You have or will complete a 60-hour master’s in a behavioral science
- You want to diagnose and treat clients independently
- You’re interested in opening a private practice
- You want to supervise and train other counselors
- You’re seeking the highest level of professional recognition in Kentucky
LCADC takes longer to achieve, but it’s the credential that opens every door in Kentucky addiction counseling. If you’re serious about a long-term career in this field, LCADC should be your ultimate target.
Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) Requirements
The Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) is Kentucky’s entry-level credential for bachelor’s degree holders. If you’ve recently graduated with a bachelor’s in psychology, social work, or even an unrelated field, this is your starting point. CADC counselors work under clinical supervision, providing direct client services in treatment facilities, community programs, and rehab centers across Kentucky.
To become a CADC in Kentucky, you’ll need:
Education:
- Bachelor’s degree in any field
Supervised Experience:
- At least 4,000 hours of supervised work experience working with individuals with substance use disorder
- This typically takes about 2 years working full-time (40 hours per week)
Classroom Training:
- At least 270 classroom hours of Board-approved coursework covering:
- Screening, assessment, and engagement
- Treatment planning, collaboration, and referral
- Counseling
- Professional and ethical responsibilities
- Must include 12 hours in ethics training
- Must consist of 3 hours in domestic violence training
- Must include 2 hours in training in the transmission, control, treatment, and prevention of HIV
Supervision:
- At least 200 hours of direct supervision documented by a Board-approved supervisor
- Minimum of 10 supervision hours in each of the four competency domains
Examination:
- Passing score on the International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC) Alcohol & Drug Counselor (ADC) exam
Most candidates complete CADC requirements in 18-24 months while working full-time in supervised positions. CADC counselors in Kentucky earn a median salary of $42,000-$48,000 annually, with higher wages in Louisville and Lexington. Many use CADC as a foundation, gaining experience before pursuing master’s-level LADC or LCADC credentials for independent practice.
Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC) Requirements
The Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC) credential recognizes master’s-level training in addiction counseling. If you have or are pursuing a 30-credit master’s degree (30 semester hours beyond a bachelor’s degree) in counseling, social work, or a related human services field, LADC gives you professional recognition for that advanced education. You’ll still work under supervision, but you’ll qualify for positions that require graduate credentials, and you’ll be positioned to advance to LCADC.
To become an LADC in Kentucky, you’ll need:
Education:
- 30-hour master’s degree in a human services field with clinical application
- Examples include counseling, social work, psychology, or marriage and family therapy
Supervised Experience:
- At least 4,000 hours of supervised work experience working with individuals with substance use disorder
- Can be completed during or after your master’s program
Classroom Training:
- At least 270 classroom hours of Board-approved coursework covering:
- Screening, assessment, and engagement
- Treatment planning, collaboration, and referral
- Counseling
- Professional and ethical responsibilities
- Must include 12 hours in ethics training
- Mustconsist ofe 3 hours in domestic violence training
- Must consist of 2 hours on HIV transmission, control, treatment, and prevention
- Many master’s programs include much of this coursework, but you’ll need to verify Board approval
Supervision:
- At least 200 hours of direct supervision documented by a Board-approved supervisor
- Minimum of 10 supervision hours in each of the four competency domains
Examination:
- Passing score on the International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC) Alcohol & Drug Counselor (ADC) exam
LADC serves as a transitional credential for master’s-level professionals. If you’re working on a 60-hour master’s or planning to pursue LCADC, LADC lets you practice professionally while you complete your education. LADC counselors typically earn $48,000-$56,000 in Kentucky, reflecting their advanced training.
Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) Requirements
The Licensed Clinical Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LCADC) is Kentucky’s highest credential in addiction counseling. With an LCADC status, you can diagnose clients, provide independent clinical treatment, open a private practice, and supervise other counselors. This is the credential you need if you want full clinical autonomy and the broadest possible career options in addiction treatment.
To become an LCADC in Kentucky, you’ll need:
Education:
- 60-hour master’s degree in a behavioral science with clinical application (counseling, psychology, social work)
- OR a 30-hour advanced placement master’s degree in a behavioral science
- OR a doctoral degree in a behavioral science with clinical application
Supervised Experience:
- At least 2,000 hours of experience working with individuals with substance use disorder
- Notice this is LESS than CADC/LADC because the Board recognizes your advanced clinical education
Classroom Training:
- At least 270 classroom hours of Board-approved coursework covering:
- Screening, assessment, and engagement
- Treatment planning, collaboration, and referral
- Counseling
- Professional and ethical responsibilities
- Must include 12 hours in ethics training
- Must consist of 3 hours in domestic violence training
- Must include 2 hours on HIV transmission, control, treatment, and prevention
- Graduate programs typically cover most of these competencies
Supervision:
- At least 100 hours of direct supervision documented by a Board-approved LCADC supervisor
- Minimum of 10 supervision hours in each of the four competency domains
- Must be supervised by an LCADC (not just any licensed counselor)
Examination:
- Passing score on the International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC) Advanced Alcohol & Drug Counselor (AADC) exam
- This is a more rigorous exam than the ADC exam required for CADC/LADC
LCADC counselors earn significantly more than those with entry-level credentials, with median salaries ranging from $58,000 to $72,000 in Kentucky. Those who open private practices or work in specialized clinical roles can earn even more. If you’re committed to addiction counseling as a long-term career, LCADC is worth the investment in education and training.
What to Expect During Supervised Hours
Supervised hours are where classroom learning becomes a real-world skill. Whether you’re pursuing CADC, LADC, or LCADC, you’ll spend months (or years) working with clients under the guidance of an experienced, Board-approved supervisor. Here’s what that actually looks like:
Finding a Supervisor
The Kentucky Board must approve your supervisor. The Board maintains a list of approved supervisors on their website. Many treatment facilities and community programs employ approved supervisors and will provide supervision as part of your employment. Some supervisors also work independently and contract with counseling candidates.
Before you start accruing hours, make sure your supervisor is current with the Board. Supervision hours only count if an approved supervisor provides them, and you don’t want to lose months of work because of a paperwork issue.
What Supervision Involves
Supervision isn’t just someone checking in occasionally. You’ll meet regularly with your supervisor (typically weekly or biweekly) to discuss your cases, review your treatment plans, and develop your clinical skills. Your supervisor will:
- Review recordings or notes from your counseling sessions
- Help you navigate difficult client situations
- Teach you how to handle ethical dilemmas
- Provide feedback on your assessment and treatment planning skills
- Sign off on your competency in each required domain
The Board requires a minimum number of supervision hours in each competency area (screening and assessment, treatment planning, counseling, and ethics). Your supervisor will document these hours and provide written evaluations of your progress.
Can You Work While Accruing Hours?
Absolutely. In fact, most candidates work full-time in treatment facilities, rehab centers, or community programs while completing their supervision requirements. This is the most practical path because you’ll:
- Earn income while training
- Build professional relationships in the field
- Gain diverse experience with different client populations
- Complete your hours faster (full-time work accrues hours more quickly than part-time)
Many Kentucky employers specifically hire CADC candidates and provide supervision as part of employment. Look for job postings that mention “supervision provided” or “Board-approved supervisor on staff.”
Timeline Expectations
Here’s what to realistically expect:
- CADC/LADC (4,000 hours): Working 40 hours per week, you’ll complete this in about 2 years (24 months). Part-time work extends this timeline proportionally.
- LCADC (2,000 hours): Working full-time, you’ll complete this in about 1 year (12 months).
Remember, these are supervised WORK hours, not just supervision meetings. You’re logging the time you spend providing direct services to clients (assessments, counseling sessions, treatment planning, group therapy, etc.), not just the time your supervisor spends reviewing your work with you.
The Application Process
Once you’ve completed your education, supervised hours, and coursework, you’re ready to apply for certification. The Kentucky Board reviews applications monthly during its regular meetings, so timing matters.
What You’ll Need
All application packets are available on the Board website. Your complete application must include:
- Two letters of reference from Board-approved professionals who can speak to your clinical competence and character
- Verification of Clinical Supervision (Form 13) – Your supervisor completes this, documenting your supervised hours across all competency domains.
- Verification of Classroom Training (Form 10) – Proof that you completed the required coursework hours
- Supervision Evaluation (Form 7) – Your supervisor’s formal assessment of your clinical skills and readiness
Don’t wait until the last minute to request these documents. Your supervisor may need several weeks to complete the paperwork, and tracking down letters of reference can take time.
Review and Approval
The Board meets monthly to review applications. Once your complete application is received, it’ll be placed on the agenda for the next available meeting. If the Board approves your application, you’ll receive authorization to register for the appropriate IC&RC exam.
After Approval
Once approved, you’ll register for your exam through IC&RC (not the Kentucky Board). The IC&RC will send your exam results directly to the Board. If you pass, your certification or license will be issued within 10 days of the Board receiving your passing score.
If you don’t pass, the Board will send you instructions to re-register and retake the exam. There’s no limit on attempts, but you’ll need to pay the exam fee again.
Preparing for Your IC&RC Exam
The IC&RC exam is the final hurdle before licensure. Whether you’re taking the ADC exam (for CADC/LADC) or the AADC exam (for LCADC), this is a comprehensive test of your knowledge across all competency domains.
What’s on the Exam
Both exams cover the same core areas, but the AADC exam includes more advanced clinical scenarios:
- Screening, assessment, and engagement (20-25% of questions)
- Treatment planning, collaboration, and referral (20-25%)
- Counseling and client education (30-35%)
- Professional and ethical responsibilities (15-20%)
Questions are scenario-based. You’ll read case studies and answer questions about appropriate interventions, ethical decision-making, treatment planning, and clinical judgment.
Study Resources
IC&RC offers official study guides and practice exams on its website. These are worth the investment because they’re written by the same people who create the actual exam questions. The practice exams help you get comfortable with the question format and identify areas where you need more study.
Many candidates also form study groups with colleagues who are preparing for the same exam. Discussing scenarios with peers helps solidify your understanding and exposes you to different clinical perspectives.
Pass Rates and Retakes
The IC&RC doesn’t publish official pass rates, but most well-prepared candidates pass on their first or second attempt. If you don’t pass, you can retake the exam as many times as needed. Use your score report to identify weak areas and focus your studying there before retaking.
Some Kentucky counseling programs offer exam prep courses or workshops. Check with the Kentucky Association of Addiction Professionals for exam prep opportunities.
Kentucky Addiction Counselor Salary & Career Outlook
If you’re considering this career path, you’re probably wondering what you’ll earn and whether jobs will be available when you’re licensed. Here’s what the data shows:
Kentucky Salary Data
According to 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors in Kentucky earn:
| Experience Level | Annual Salary (Kentucky) | Hourly Wage |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level (CADC) | $38,000 – $42,000 | $18.27 – $20.19 |
| Median (LADC) | $47,580 | $22.87 |
| Experienced (LCADC) | $58,000 – $72,000 | $27.88 – $34.62 |
| Top 10% (Private Practice/Leadership) | $71,240+ | $34.25+ |
Salaries vary by region within Kentucky. Counselors in Louisville and Lexington typically earn 10-15% more than those in rural areas, though rural areas often have greater demand and may offer signing bonuses or loan repayment assistance.
Job Growth and Demand
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 22% job growth for substance abuse counselors nationwide between 2024 and 2034, much faster than average for all occupations. Kentucky’s demand is even stronger due to:
- The ongoing opioid crisis in Appalachian communities
- Expanding Medicaid coverage for addiction treatment services
- Growing recognition of addiction as a treatable medical condition
- Increased funding for rural treatment programs
Kentucky’s addiction treatment workforce is understaffed, particularly in rural counties. If you’re willing to work in underserved areas, you’ll find multiple job offers and likely qualify for loan forgiveness programs through the National Health Service Corps.
Career Advancement
Your earning potential grows as you advance your credentials and gain experience. Here’s a typical career trajectory:
- Years 0-3: CADC counselor providing direct services – $38,000-$45,000
- Years 3-7: LADC counselor with master’s degree – $48,000-$58,000
- Years 7+: LCADC counselor with independent practice or clinical leadership role – $58,000-$80,000+
LCADC counselors who open private practices or provide specialized services (trauma treatment, adolescent services, co-occurring disorders) can earn significantly more, particularly in urban areas where private pay rates are higher.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a master’s degree to become an addiction counselor in Kentucky?
How long does it take to become certified in Kentucky?
Can I work as a counselor while completing supervision hours?
What’s the difference between CADC, LADC, and LCADC?
How much do addiction counselors earn in Kentucky?
Are online programs accepted for coursework requirements?
What happens if I fail the IC&RC exam?
Can I transfer my license from another state to Kentucky?
Do I need specific undergraduate or graduate degrees, or can I have a degree in any field?
What’s the job market like for addiction counselors in Kentucky?
Key Takeaways
- Kentucky offers three addiction counselor credentials: CADC (bachelor’s level), LADC (30-hour master’s level), and LCADC (60-hour master’s level for independent practice).
- All credentials require 4,000 supervised hours (CADC/LADC) or 2,000 hours (LCADC), 270 classroom hours, and passing IC&RC exams.
- You can work and earn income while completing supervision requirements—most employers provide supervision as part of employment.
- CADC is your entry point with a bachelor’s degree; LCADC is the highest credential allowing independent practice and private practice ownership.
- Kentucky addiction counselors earn $38,000-$72,000+, depending on credential level and experience, with strong job growth projected through 2034.
- The Kentucky Board reviews applications monthly, and certification is issued within 10 days of passing your IC&RC exam.
Ready to Start Your Path to Addiction Counseling in Kentucky?
Find accredited programs that meet Kentucky Board requirements and start making a difference in your community. Explore degree options, certification courses, and schools with approved supervision programs.
Additional Resources
Questions? Contact the Kentucky Board of Certification of Alcohol and Drug Counselors at 502-782-8814 or [email protected].
The Kentucky Association of Addiction Professionals provides continuing education, networking opportunities, and professional development resources for counselors at all credential levels. Membership includes access to job boards, exam prep materials, and annual conferences. The association also connects you with other professional organizations serving addiction counselors nationwide.
Salary data sourced from the 2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and employment figures for Substance Abuse, Behavioral Disorder, and Mental Health Counselors reflect state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed December 2025.