Setting the Standard for Addiction Counselor Certification in Arizona.

Trusted by 1,000 + companies and certified addictions counselors

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ABCAC

Setting the Standard for Addiction Counselor Certification in Arizona.

Trusted by 1,000 + certified addictions counselors

Need Help?

Send a message to our admin team!

Contact Us

1200+

Certified Professionals in Arizona

And growing every year across clinical, prevention, and peer support domains.

57

IC&RC Member Boards

Through IC&RC ABCAC offers credential reciprocity with boards in 57 U.S. and international jurisdictions.

100%

Ethics Compliance Rate

Maintained among active certificate holders since 2022.

$150

Standard Recertification Fee

Keep your credentials active affordably every two years.

Our services

Apply for initial certification in addiction counseling, peer recovery, prevention, or supervision, recognized by IC&RC.

ABCAC provides IC&RC certification exams and supports licensure testing through AZBBHE.

Maintain your credentials with clear recertification pathways and access to endorsed CEU opportunities.

Move your credential to Arizona or transfer to another IC&RC member board with our streamlined reciprocity services.

Why Addiction Counselors Matter

Addictions counselors help people reclaim their lives from substance use disorders. They provide support, education, and treatment planning to individuals, families, and communities. Whether working in hospitals, recovery centers, or private practice, these professionals guide clients through one of the most important transformations of their lives.

Our services

Apply for initial certification in addiction counseling, peer recovery, prevention, or supervision, recognized by IC&RC.

ABCAC provides IC&RC certification exams and supports licensure testing through AZBBHE.

Maintain your credentials with clear recertification pathways and access to endorsed CEU opportunities.

Move your credential to Arizona or transfer to another IC&RC member board with our streamlined reciprocity services.

Which Credential Is Right for You?

Explore our certifications and find your best fit.

Whether you're just starting out, advancing your clinical skills, or supporting others through lived experience — ABCAC offers the credential that aligns with your path.

CAC – Certified Addiction Counselor

For entry-level professionals working directly with clients in addiction recovery.

AADC – Advanced Counselor

For master's-level clinicians with advanced practice skills.

CPRS – Peer Recovery

For individuals in recovery who want to support others as certified peers.

CCJP / CPS / CCS

Criminal Justice, Prevention, or Supervision tracks.

Sync Your Certifications – One Date, One Renewal, Less Stress.

Align the renewal dates of your CADAC, CCJP, AADC, or other ABCAC certifications into one easy, unified cycle. For just $15 per month forward, you can eliminate staggered renewals and manage all your certifications together — saving time, reducing hassle, and staying compliant. Submit your synchronization request and pay securely online today!


Watch our how to video below.

Start Your Sync Now!

Follow This Easy Step by Step Process

Next Step: Upload your completed synchronization form — this is required to complete your request.

Upload Cert Sync Doucument

Certification Sync Payment Instructions

To sync your ABCAC certifications into one renewal date, please click the payment button below. The cost is $15 per month you wish to sync forward.


How It Works:

  1. Count the number of months you need to move forward to align your certifications.
  2. Enter that quantity when prompted (e.g., 5 months = $75).
  3. Complete your payment securely online.
  4. After payment, upload your completed sync form to finalize your request.


Example: If your certifications are 6 months apart, enter “6” to pay $90.


Once received, ABCAC will process your request and align all renewal dates accordingly.

Become an ABCAC Board Member


Apply Now:

"If you possess expertise in behavioral or mental health, we extend a warm invitation for you to join our board of directors. Your insights are invaluable." Please fill out this form and email it back to us at abcac.org



What people say about us?

Don't just take it from us

“Syncing my certifications with ABCAC was super easy. I just selected the number of months I needed, submitted my form, and it was all handled quickly. Now I only have one renewal date to remember — total game changer!”


— T. Raymond, AADC & CPRS

“Scheduling my exam with ABCAC was incredibly easy. I picked a time that worked for me, got clear instructions, and felt fully supported throughout the process.”



— J. Morgan, CAC Candidate

“Scheduling my exam was so easy, and Sierra was incredibly patient and helpful. She answered all my questions and made the whole process stress-free. I really felt supported.”



— A. Thompson, CPRS Applicant

FAQ

  • What does ABCAC do?

    The Arizona Board for the Certification of Addiction Counselors (ABCAC) offers professional certification for individuals working in addiction counseling, prevention, peer recovery, clinical supervision, and related fields. As an IC&RC member board, ABCAC ensures its credentials meet international standards for competency and ethical practice.

  • Do I need to be certified to work in addiction counseling?

    Certification is not legally required for all roles, but it is often preferred or required by employers and treatment programs. Holding certification through ABCAC demonstrates verified experience, education, and ethical commitment, increasing credibility and job opportunities in the field.

  • What’s the difference between licensure and certification?

    ABCAC certification is a voluntary professional credential focused on substance use counseling and recognized internationally through IC&RC, while AZBBHE licensure is a state-issued legal requirement for independent practice in behavioral health, allowing professionals to diagnose, treat, and bill for services in Arizona.

  • Is ABCAC certification recognized in other states?

    Yes. ABCAC is a member of the International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium (IC&RC), which allows certified professionals to transfer their credentials to 57 other member boards across the U.S. and internationally through a formal reciprocity process.

  • How do I start the certification process?

    Start by choosing your credential type (e.g., CAC, AADC, CPRS) and reviewing the requirements. Then submit your application and supporting documents through our secure portal. ABCAC will review your materials and guide you through the next steps toward certification. We’re here to help every step of the way.

  • Can I talk to someone if I need help?

    Absolutely. You can contact ABCAC by email at abcac@abcac.org or by phone at 480-980-1770. Staff are available to answer questions and guide you through the certification process.