THE 7 CORE FUNCTIONS OF A MASTERS-DEGREE LEVEL ALCOHOL AND OTHER DRUGCOUNSELOR

Increased educational requirements for the alcohol and other drug (AOD ) treatment field require a core of knowledge that extend beyond the k nowledge and skill base for the existing twelve core functions of an A OD counselor. This article outlines an advanced level of training to s upport the advanced roles called the Seven Core Functions for the Alco hol and Other Drug Counselor. These functions differentiate alcohol an d other drug (AOD) professionals who have obtained an advanced degree, and have extensive experience in the AOD field from the entry level p rofessional. A set of education components are outlined that serve as a means to obtain competence in these functions.