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Contemporary Theory in Addictive Behavior
Graduate Certificate in Counseling
Deepen your understanding of substance abuse, addiction and compulsive behaviors with Capella’s Graduate Certificate in Counseling, Contemporary Theory in Addictive Behavior. This five-course program reviews theories of addiction treatment, explores interventions for substance use disorders, and examines contemporary issues impacting addiction. These graduate-level courses may be applicable to a master’s degree at Capella.
This certificate program is not designed or intended to prepare students for professional licensure in the fields of counseling or addictions in any U.S. jurisdiction.
At a glance
- 100% Online
- 4 Core courses
- 1 Elective
Explore counseling courses
- This certificate requires a total of 20 program credits
- You’ll need to complete five courses
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COUN5258
Group Therapy and the Treatment of Substance-Related and Addictive Behavior
4 quarter credits
Learners explore group counseling as an important aspect of addictions treatment, recovery, and relapse prevention. Learners develop a personal model of group treatment for substance-related and addictive disorders that is informed by counseling and group theories; ethical, legal, and cultural considerations; and group development models.
4 quarter credits
COUN5260
Theories of Addiction Treatment
4 quarter credits
Learners investigate the nature of addiction problems, studying various theories and models of addiction to evaluate the validity and efficacy of associated treatment approaches. Learners also utilize critical thinking skills in the application of theory to therapeutic work with specific populations.
4 quarter credits
COUN5261
Interventions for Substance-Related and Addictive Disorders
4 quarter credits
Learners investigate current treatment interventions for substance-related and addictive disorders. In addition, learners evaluate diagnoses for substance-related and addictive disorders and apply appropriate treatment. Topics include inpatient and outpatient treatment options, self-help groups, the use of alternative treatment modalities, and continuum of care including community resources, relapse prevention, and recovery planning.
4 quarter credits
COUN5265
Advanced Topics in Substance Use Disorders and Behavioral Addictions
4 quarter credits
Learners gain and apply the knowledge and skills essential for a career as a professional addiction counselor. Learners analyze advanced topics in the treatment of substance use disorders and behavioral addictions. Learners develop a comprehensive understanding of ethical considerations, the nuances of working with different populations, and terminology specific to the field of substance use and behavioral addiction treatment.
4 quarter credits
In addition, choose one from the following courses:
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COUN5108
Foundations of Addiction and Addictive Behavior
4 quarter credits
Learners gain fundamental knowledge of addiction from its historical roots through contemporary issues. Learners examine theory and research that guides treatment for substance use disorders and related addictive behaviors, including the diagnosis and treatment of co-occurring mental health issues. In addition, learners review empirically supported interventions for individuals, families, groups, and communities, as well as emerging issues in the field based upon current research. Learners may earn credit for either COUN5108 or CST5108, but not both. Prerequisite(s): COUN-R5861 or COUN-R5831 or COUN5260 or SWK5013.
4 quarter credits
COUN5266
Family Systems and Psychoeducation in Addiction
4 quarter credits
Learners apply the lens of systemic thinking to examine how addiction impacts family systems. Learners assess the role of psychoeducation in treating and preventing addiction with individuals and families as well as other complex facets of addiction that include the role of family dynamics, the relationship between professional systems, models of recovery, and pathology. Learners also develop psychoeducation-informed family group therapy lesson plans.
4 quarter credits
COUN5268
Psychopharmacology and Medication Management
4 quarter credits
Learners examine the neurobiological, behavioral, psychological, and physical effects of psychoactive substances on individuals and analyze the classifications, indications, and contraindications of commonly prescribed psychopharmacological medication. Learners also apply principles of psychopharmacology to the clinical practice of counselors and therapists, including consultation and interfacing with the medical community and other systems of care.
4 quarter credits
*Course has prerequisite(s). See catalog for details.
What you’ll learn
- Theories of addiction and its application to human behavior
- Individual and group approaches to the treatment of addiction and addictive behavior
- Ethical and professional standards governing the treatment of addiction and substance use disorders
How much does a graduate certificate in counseling cost?
The total cost of your certificate will depend on academic performance, transfer credits, tuition discounts and other factors. See cost information below.
- Based on the quarter system; 1–3 courses per 10-week quarter
- 1 semester credit = 1.5 quarter credits
- Weekly assignments and courseroom discussions
- Pay for what you take, price varies by courseload or quarter
- $512 per credit
- $175 resource kit
- 20 total quarter credits
- 0 max transfer credits
$10,240
NO TRANSFER CREDITS 12 months
*This is only an estimate, effective July 7, 2025, and is subject to change.
Capella is committed to transparency in tuition and pricing. You will be responsible for costs in addition to tuition, which may include your resource kit, travel expenses and practicum costs.
Your tuition amount will vary depending on your unique circumstances such as your program specialization, transfer credits and any applicable tuition discounts. Books, course materials, supplies, equipment and other expenses are not included. Tuition estimates shown for the GuidedPath learning format depend on the number of credits accepted for transfer.
New or recently revised program estimates are based on comparable programs. Review program-specific fee amounts in our University Catalog.
Get the details
Find out more about financing and payment options to help you complete your program. Federal aid also is available to help manage the costs of higher education.
Connect with an enrollment specialist to further discuss the cost of the program and explore your eligibility for scholarships and discounts.
Are there scholarships available for certificates?
Your education is an investment in your future. There are more ways to save than you might think.
Capella University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Accreditation and recognitions provide evidence that we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability.
See all our accreditations and recognitions.
Approved Education Provider
Capella University is an Approved Education Provider of NAADAC, the Association for Addiction Professionals, for its MS in Addiction Studies and Graduate Certificate in Addictive Behavior.
What are the graduate certificate in counseling admission requirements?
Admission requirements
Applicants to the Graduate Certificate in Counseling, Contemporary Theory in Addictive Behavior program must provide the following information for admission:
- Bachelor’s degree from an institution accredited by a U.S. Department of Education-recognized accrediting agency or an internationally recognized institution
- Your official transcripts, minimum grade point average of 2.3 or higher on a 4.0 scale
- Admission application – no application fee required
- A valid, government-issued form of photo identification
GRE and GMAT are not required for admission.
International student requirements
If you completed your most recent academic coursework, degree or credential at an institution outside the United States, regardless of your citizenship or where you currently live, you are considered an international applicant.
In addition to the above admission requirements, you will need to submit these materials:
- Minimum score on acceptable test for proof of English proficiency
- Transcript evaluation
Learn more about international student admissions.
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