Massachusetts

HHS Region: Region 1 - New England

Prevention Experience: 

• 2,000 hours of documented, supervised alcohol, tobacco, and other drug abuse prevention specific work experience.
• It is recommended that the documented supervision be done by a Certified Prevention Specialist (CPS).
• 2,000 hours is the equivalent of one-year full-time experience, which can be completed as a volunteer or paid staff.

Supervised Prevention Experience: 

• 120 hours with a minimum of 10 hours in each of the CPS domains (see below).
• Supervision is broadly defined as the administrative, clinical, and evaluative process of monitoring, assessing, and enhancing one’s performance.
• The super-vision may have been completed under more than one supervisor and/or agency.  

Educational / Training Requirements:

• 120 hours with a bachelor’s Degree (or higher) in Human Services, Public Health, Social Work, or a closely related field
• 200 hours with anything less than a bachelor’s Degree

Examination:  Taking and passing the IC&RC Prevention Specialist Exam

Certification & Licensing Board:  MASSACHUSETTS BOARD OF SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELOR CERTIFICATION (MBSACC)

Board Website:  https://www.mbsacc.com/

Code of Ethics Requirements: 

• Applicant must sign a prevention specific code of ethics statement or affirmation statement

Recertification Requirements: 

• 40 hours of continuation every 2 years, 5 hours must be Prevention Ethics