Chemical Dependency Professional Requirements in Rhode Island
Rhode Island uses a two-step credentialing system. You’ll first earn certification through the Rhode Island Board for the Certification of Chemical Dependency Professionals (entry-level PCDP, advanced ACDP, or graduate ACDP II), then apply for state licensure through the Board of Licensing. Entry-level requires only a high school diploma and 140 education hours, while advanced levels need up to 270 hours and three years of supervised experience.
There’s a good chance you’re here because you know the weight of addiction—maybe you’ve carried it yourself, or watched someone you love struggle under it. That experience, that understanding of what addiction does to lives and families, is often what drives people toward becoming chemical dependency professionals in Rhode Island.
Rhode Island’s path to becoming a licensed addiction counselor is unique. Unlike most states that use a single licensing body, Rhode Island requires you to work with two separate organizations. You’ll first earn certification through a professional board, then apply for state licensure. It’s a two-step process that can feel complicated at first, but once you understand the system, the pathway becomes clear.
This guide breaks down every requirement, from entry-level credentials that don’t require a degree to advanced clinical licenses for master’s-level practitioners. We’ll walk you through education requirements, experience hours, supervision needs, and exactly what it takes to go from your first credential to independent practice.
Understanding Rhode Island’s Two-Step Credentialing System
Rhode Island is one of the few states that separates professional certification from state licensure. Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Professional Certification – The Rhode Island Board for the Certification of Chemical Dependency Professionals (RIBCCDP) evaluates your education, experience, and clinical competency. This board is a member of the International Certification and Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC), which means credentials earned here are recognized across multiple states.
Step 2: State Licensure – Once you hold advanced certification from RIBCCDP, you apply to the Rhode Island Board of Licensing for Chemical Dependency Professionals (a government entity within the Department of Health) for your license to practice.
You can’t skip Step 1. The Board of Licensing accepts applications only from professionals who already hold the Advanced Chemical Dependency Professional (ACDP) or Advanced Chemical Dependency Professional II (ACDP II) certification through RIBCCDP.
Certification Levels and Requirements
Rhode Island offers multiple certification levels, allowing you to start working in the field while you build toward more advanced credentials. Here’s the complete pathway:
| Certification Level | Education Required | Experience Required | Typical Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Provisional CDP (PCDP) | High school diploma + 140 training hours | 2,000 hours (1 year) + 150 supervision hours | 1-2 years (time-limited credential) |
| Advanced CDP (ACDP) | 270 training hours (120 substance-specific) | 6,000 hours (3 years) or less with degree | 2-4 years depending on degree |
| Advanced CDP II (ACDP II) | Master’s degree + 180 training hours | 2,000 hours + 300 supervision hours | 3-4 years total (with master’s) |
| Clinical Supervisor (CDCS) | ACDP or ACDP II + supervisor training | 5 years counseling + 2 years supervision | 7+ years total experience |
Provisional Chemical Dependency Professional (PCDP)
The PCDP is your entry point into the field if you don’t have a degree. This time-limited credential (valid for only two years) allows you to work under supervision while building toward your advanced certification.
Education Requirements:
- High school diploma or GED
- 140 hours of alcohol and drug counseling education
- 12 hours on confidentiality (including 8 hours specifically on 42 CFR Part 2)
- 6 hours each in communicable diseases, counselor ethics, and medication-assisted treatment
You can earn these hours through workshops, seminars, in-service training, or academic courses. One three-credit college course equals about 45 training hours.
Experience Requirements:
- 2,000 hours (one year) of paid or volunteer work in addiction counseling
- 150 hours of clinical supervision
- Must be currently employed in the field
The PCDP gives you time to gain experience and continue your education while working toward the ACDP, which doesn’t have the two-year time limit.
Advanced Chemical Dependency Professional (ACDP)
The ACDP is your first credential that qualifies for state licensure. Unlike the PCDP, there’s no degree requirement—but having one significantly reduces the experience hours you’ll need.
Education Requirements:
- 270 hours of education covering addiction counseling domains
- 120 hours must be substance abuse-specific
- Topics must include: clinical evaluation, treatment planning, counseling, case management, documentation, client education, and professional ethics
Experience Requirements (varies by education level):
- No degree: 6,000 hours (3 years) of supervised experience
- Associate degree in behavioral science: 5,000 hours (reduces requirement by 1,000 hours)
- Bachelor’s degree in behavioral science: 4,000 hours (reduces requirement by 2,000 hours)
- Master’s degree in behavioral science: 2,000 hours (reduces requirement by 4,000 hours)
Practicum and internship hours from degree programs count toward your experience requirement. Volunteer work is acceptable if it meets RIBCCDP standards.
Supervision Requirements:
- 300 hours of clinical supervision
- At least 20 hours in each of eight domains: clinical evaluation, service coordination, treatment planning, counseling, referral, documentation, client/family/community education, and professional/ethical responsibility
- Supervisor must hold specific qualifications (see below)
Examination: You’ll take the IC&RC Examination for Alcohol and Drug Counselors, a nationally recognized test covering all core competencies.
Advanced Chemical Dependency Professional II (ACDP II)
The ACDP II is the clinical credential for master’s-level practitioners. It includes additional training in research and supervision, preparing you for independent clinical practice and supervisory roles.
Education Requirements:
- Master’s degree from an accredited institution (any field, but behavioral science preferred)
- 180 hours of addiction-specific education
- Must cover confidentiality, ethics, communicable diseases, and medication-assisted treatment
Experience Requirements:
- 2,000 hours of supervised experience in addiction counseling
- Practicum and internship hours from your master’s program can count
Supervision Requirements:
- 300 hours of clinical supervision
- Must cover all eight core domains PLUS research and supervision domains
Examination: You’ll take the IC&RC Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor Examination, which covers clinical practice at a higher level than the ACDP exam.
Chemical Dependency Clinical Supervisor (CDCS)
The CDCS is a specialty credential for professionals who want to supervise other counselors. This is not a general practice credential—it’s specifically for those pursuing supervisory roles. The Rhode Island Board of Licensing recognizes this credential for clinical supervisor positions.
Requirements:
- Current ACDP or ACDP II certification
- Five years total experience in addiction counseling
- Two years of supervised experience providing clinical supervision (may overlap with the five years)
- Completion of supervisor-specific training
Education and Training Requirements
Where to Get Your Training Hours
You don’t need to complete a formal degree program to earn your required education hours (except for the ACDP II, which requires a master’s). Training hours can come from:
- College or university courses – Each 3-credit course equals approximately 45 hours
- Workshops and seminars – Often offered by professional organizations like NAADAC or state associations
- Online training programs – Many IC&RC member boards approve specific online courses
- In-service training – Some employers provide creditable training as part of employment
- Conference sessions – Addiction counseling conferences often offer continuing education credits
All training must be approved or recognized by RIBCCDP. Before paying for any course or program, verify it will count toward your certification requirements.
Qualifying for Clinical Supervision
Your clinical supervisor plays a crucial role in your development as a counselor. Rhode Island has specific requirements for who can supervise you:
| Supervisor Qualification | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Certified Clinical Supervisor | Holds current certification or licensure as a clinical supervisor in addiction counseling |
| Advanced CDP with Training | Holds ACDP, ACDP II, or LCDP credential + 30 hours of supervisor training |
| Master’s-Level Clinician | Master’s degree in behavioral science + 2 years experience + 30 hours supervisor training + 90 hours substance abuse training |
| Licensed Behavioral Health Professional | PhD-level licensed clinician OR licensed physician (MD) with 2 years substance abuse experience |
Finding qualified supervision can be one of the more challenging aspects of the credentialing process, especially in rural areas. Many counselors-in-training find supervisors through their place of employment, professional networking events, or by contacting RIBCCDP for referrals.
Board of Certification Application Process
Once you’ve completed your education and experience requirements, you’ll apply to RIBCCDP for certification. Here’s what the process looks like:
Application Materials
You’ll need to submit:
- Completed application with all sections filled out accurately
- Signed code of ethics acknowledging your commitment to professional standards
- Notarized release form allowing RIBCCDP to verify your information
- Official transcripts sent directly from your college or university (if claiming degree credit)
- Training certificates documenting your education hours
- Confidential supervisor evaluation submitted directly by your clinical supervisor
- Experience documentation showing dates, hours, and job duties
Application packages and detailed instructions are available on the RIBCCDP website.
Fees and Processing Time
ACDP Application Fee: $350 (includes examination and certification)
- If you’re found ineligible to test, half the fee ($175) is refundable
- If approved, the fee covers both your examination and the first certification period
Processing time varies depending on application volume, but you should expect 4-8 weeks for review once all materials are received. Incomplete applications take longer, so double-check that you’ve included everything before submitting.
Taking the IC&RC Examination
Once RIBCCDP approves your application, you’ll receive authorization to schedule your examination. The IC&RC exams are computer-based and offered at testing centers throughout Rhode Island and nationally.
ACDP Exam: Tests knowledge across eight core domains of addiction counseling practice
ACDP II Exam: Advanced examination covering clinical practice, research, and supervision
IC&RC provides study materials and practice exams. Many counselors also join study groups or take exam prep courses offered by professional organizations.
Board of Licensing Application Process
After you’ve earned your ACDP or ACDP II certification through RIBCCDP, you’re ready for Step 2: applying for state licensure through the Rhode Island Board of Licensing for Chemical Dependency Professionals.
Licensure Application Requirements
You’ll submit:
- Notarized application with a 2×2 photograph attached
- $75 application fee
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful immigration status
- Certification verification sent directly from RIBCCDP to the Board of Licensing
- Background disclosure addressing any legal or professional disciplinary history
Applications can be downloaded from the Rhode Island Department of Health website.
Background and Ethics Review
The application includes questions about your legal history and any previous ethics sanctions. The Board of Licensing takes professional conduct seriously—individuals with ethics sanctions from IC&RC or the National Association of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC) are typically prohibited from licensure.
However, the Board may waive this prohibition if you can demonstrate that public safety won’t be compromised. If you have concerns about your background, consider consulting with a professional licensing attorney before applying.
License Maintenance and Renewal
Once licensed, you’ll need to maintain your credential through continuing education and periodic renewal. Requirements include:
- Continuing education hours (check with the Board of Licensing for current requirements)
- Renewal every 2-3 years (verify current cycle)
- Maintenance of your underlying RIBCCDP certification
- Compliance with all professional ethics standards
Transferring Credentials from Other States
If you’re already certified or licensed in another state, Rhode Island offers reciprocity options through both organizations.
RIBCCDP Certification Reciprocity
Rhode Island is a member of the IC&RC consortium, which means if you hold IC&RC certification from another member board, RIBCCDP will grant reciprocal certification without additional requirements. The reciprocity process is initiated through your home state’s certification board, which contacts RIBCCDP on your behalf.
You can review IC&RC reciprocity details on the RIBCCDP reciprocity page.
Board of Licensing Endorsement
IC&RC reciprocity applies to professional certification through RIBCCDP. However, state licensure through the Rhode Island Board of Licensing may still have additional requirements. The Board will consider endorsement applications from counselors licensed in other states, provided the out-of-state requirements were substantially similar to Rhode Island’s standards. You’ll need to demonstrate that your education, experience, and examination meet or exceed Rhode Island’s requirements.
Review the Board of Licensing regulations for specific endorsement criteria.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a college degree to become a chemical dependency professional in Rhode Island?
What’s the difference between certification and licensure in Rhode Island?
How long does it take to become fully licensed in Rhode Island?
Can I transfer my addiction counselor license from another state?
What does it cost to become licensed in Rhode Island?
What’s the difference between ACDP and ACDP II?
Can I work in addiction counseling while I’m earning my certification?
How do I find a qualified clinical supervisor in Rhode Island?
Key Takeaways
- Rhode Island requires a two-step credentialing process: professional certification through RIBCCDP, then state licensure through the Board of Licensing.
- Entry-level PCDP certification requires only a high school diploma, 140 training hours, and one year of supervised experience—no college degree needed.
- Advanced ACDP certification requires 270 training hours and 6,000 experience hours without a degree, but with an associate, bachelor’s, or master’s degree, the experience requirements can be significantly reduced.
- ACDP II is the clinical credential for master’s-level practitioners, requiring a graduate degree, 180 training hours, and 2,000 supervised hours.
- Clinical supervision must be provided by qualified supervisors who meet specific RIBCCDP standards, including certified clinical supervisors or advanced practitioners with supervisor training.
- IC&RC reciprocity allows counselors from other member states to transfer certification to Rhode Island, though state licensure may have additional requirements.
- Total credentialing costs include $350 for certification (with exam) and $75 for state licensure, plus education and potential supervision fees.
- The entire process from entry-level to licensed ACDP takes 3-5 years, depending on your education level and whether you hold a degree.
Ready to Start Your Rhode Island Addiction Counseling Career?
Whether you’re starting with a high school diploma or bringing a master’s degree, Rhode Island offers a clear pathway to becoming a licensed chemical dependency professional. Find accredited programs and take the first step toward turning your understanding of addiction into meaningful work helping others find recovery.
Contact Information and Resources
Rhode Island Board for the Certification of Chemical Dependency Professionals (RIBCCDP)
Phone: 717-540-4456 (Pennsylvania Certification Board managing RIBCCDP functions)
Website: www.ricertboard.org/certifications
Rhode Island Board of Licensing for Chemical Dependency Professionals
Phone: 401-222-3045
Website: Rhode Island Department of Health Licensing
International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC)
Website: www.internationalcredentialing.org
Salary Disclaimer: 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.