CASAC Pathway New York
Guiding You From Training to Full Credentialing
The NYS Association of CASAC Professionals (NYS-CASAC) provides you with a clear CASAC pathway for aspiring and current substance use counselors in NYS. From CASAC-Trainee (CASAC-T) to full CASAC certification and through the renewal process, we offer resources, guidance, and advocacy to help you grow your career and serve with excellence.
NYS-CASAC Association Mission
The CASAC Pathway: Building a Meaningful Career
Unlock the Benefits of Becoming a Credentialed Addiction Counselor
Choosing the CASAC Pathway opens doors to a rewarding profession where your work directly impacts individuals, families, and communities. The Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC) credential is recognized across New York State as the gold standard for professionals working in addiction treatment and recovery services. By pursuing this pathway, you gain more than a certification—you gain a respected identity as a counselor dedicated to healing and change.
One of the key benefits of the CASAC Pathway is professional credibility. Employers in outpatient programs, hospitals, residential treatment facilities, and schools value the CASAC credential because it demonstrates specialized knowledge, ethical commitment, and clinical competence. With this recognition, you become highly employable in a growing behavioral health workforce.
Another advantage is career flexibility. The CASAC Pathway provides opportunities to work across diverse settings, from community-based organizations to justice system programs. As the demand for substance use counselors increases, CASACs find stable employment, competitive salaries, and pathways into supervisory and leadership roles.
The personal fulfillment of becoming a CASAC is equally significant. Addiction counselors witness life-changing progress as clients move toward recovery, resilience, and stability. Every interaction is an opportunity to restore hope and make a difference.
By choosing the CASAC Pathway, you not only strengthen your own career but also contribute to a healthier New York State. You join a network of dedicated professionals committed to advocacy, equity, and quality care. The benefits are clear: professional recognition, career advancement, and the chance to transform lives.
The CASAC Pathway: Guide to Becoming Credentialed
Becoming a Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC) in New York is a transformative professional milestone. The CASAC credential, governed by the New York State Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS) and supported by NAADAC professional standards, establishes credibility and opens doors to a wide range of opportunities in behavioral health.
The CASAC pathway begins with becoming a CASAC-T (CASAC-Trainee), which allows individuals to work in the field while completing the required 350 hours of approved education in core areas such as addiction counseling, ethics, clinical practice, and cultural competence. Candidates must also complete supervised work experience, pass the IC&RC exam, and adhere to strict ethical guidelines.
The NYS Association of CASAC Professionals helps simplify this process. We provide guidance on choosing an OASAS-approved training program, connecting with internship providers, and preparing for the IC&RC examination. Our mentorship opportunities and peer network ensure CASAC-Ts never feel isolated while navigating credentialing requirements.
Credentialing is more than checking off requirements. it’s about developing the skills, knowledge, and professional identity to make a lasting impact. Through this pathway, aspiring CASACs gain the foundation to provide evidence-based, trauma-informed, and client-centered care.
By supporting CASAC-Ts at every step, the Association reinforces its mission to strengthen the substance use counseling workforce and elevate the role of CASAC professionals in NY.
Your Path to Growth
The NYS Association of CASAC Professionals is dedicated to guiding you through every stage of the CASAC Pathway. Whether you’re applying for your initial credential or renewing to maintain active status, we provide clear steps, resources, and support tailored to your needs. Our members gain access to continuing education opportunities, reminders for renewal deadlines, and tools to keep documentation in order. By streamlining credentialing and renewal, the Association ensures you can focus on what matters most, serving clients, building your career, and thriving as a recognized professional in New York’s behavioral health workforce.
The CASAC Credential Renewal Process
Earning the CASAC credential is only the beginning of a lifelong commitment to professional growth. The CASAC renewal process, guided by OASAS and aligned with NAADAC’s ethical standards, ensures that addiction counselors remain competent, moral, and up-to-date with emerging best practices.
Every three years, CASACs must complete 60 hours of continuing education to maintain their credential. At least 15 hours must focus on professional ethics, while the remaining can cover clinical skills, trauma-informed care, harm reduction, and evidence-based practices. These requirements ensure counselors remain aligned with the highest professional standards while expanding their clinical toolkit.
The NYS Association of CASAC Professionals supports members by providing access to approved training, workshops, webinars, and statewide conferences. We also offer reduced-rate training opportunities, networking events, and specialized professional development for renewal.
Beyond education, renewal reflects a CASAC’s dedication to accountability, advocacy, and leadership within New York’s behavioral health system. By staying credentialed, CASACs strengthen their role in integrated care models, support workforce sustainability, and build trust with the communities they serve.
Our Association guides documenting CEUs, understanding renewal deadlines, and preparing for recredentialing audits. We also advocate for CASACs at the policy level, pushing for fair pay, recognition, and workforce protections.
Through renewal, CASACs not only maintain their certification but also reaffirm their professional identity and commitment to excellence. The CASAC Pathway ensures that the profession continues to thrive, adapt, and lead in addressing addiction across New York State.
A Message from the Founder
“CASACs are not secondary. We are seasoned professionals, required in every treatment modality,
and we bring unmatched expertise to the clinical team. We already carry the credential that
reflects our dedication, skill, and impact.”
—A. Maria Mendez
Start or Advance Your CASAC Journey Today
Whether you’re beginning as a CASAC-T, preparing for the IC&RC exam, or renewing your credential, the NYS Association of CASAC Professionals is here to guide you. Join us today and gain access to training, resources, and a robust network of peers.
