ASHTABULA COUNTY MENTAL HEALTH AND RECOVERY SERVICES BOARD

Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant (CDCA) Training Academy

The Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant (CDCA) certification was developed by the Ohio Chemical Dependency board to help individuals in becoming credentialed to work in the addictions field. Individuals with a CDCA certification can work with substance use clients under supervision in a variety of settings including behavioral health agencies, and treatment centers. Obtaining the CDCA certification is the first step in becoming a certified chemical dependency counselor.

To be eligible to apply for CDCA certification you must meet the following:

• Must be at least 18 years of age and hold a High School Diploma or GED
• Complete 40 hours of chemical dependency-specific education
• Complete an online application at the Ohio Chemical Dependency Counselor Professionals Board website www.ocdp.ohio.gov
• Have written proof of all 40 hours of education in the required areas. Acceptable forms of verification include official transcripts or continuing education certificates of attendance.

The Ashtabula County Mental Health and Recovery Services Board provides a CDCA Training Academy in February and March to help individuals in obtaining some of the hours needed to obtain a Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant certification.

All Board training will be online using a Zoom link and all will be live presentations.  You must be on time, keep your camera on during the meeting, and stay for the entire presentation to be eligible for a certificate of attendance.

Many of the training hours needed are available for free online and can be completed on your own time.