CRC is the only professional counselor educated at the graduate level and who has demonstrated a breadth and depth of knowledge and skill necessary to serve individuals with disabilities across a wide range of disabling conditions. CRCs use a unique and broad range of highly specialized services to evaluate, determine, coordinate, and manage any or all necessary services throughout the rehabilitation process. A certified rehabilitation counselor is the bridge between the individual and a self-sufficient, fully integrated life.

A LPC usually has training in mental illness, but LPCs may also focus on career counseling, rehabilitation/addiction counseling, and other forms of counseling that do not directly involve the diagnosis or treatment of mental illness. And indeed, in states where the counselor license operates under the broad LPC title, the protected scope of practice is often broad as well. An LPC license may be necessary to perform any kind of counseling, whether related to mental health or not.

Addictions counselors, also referred to as substance abuse counselors, are counseling professionals who advise individuals with alcoholism or other types of drug addiction to support their recovery. Addictions counselors are typically responsible for evaluating clients’ mental health, developing treatment goals, recommending treatment options, helping individuals modify behaviors for recovery, educating families on how to cope with addiction behaviors, and/or referring clients to other supportive resources in the community. LACs often deal with clients in crisis situations and have a large impact on the lives of others, thus it is necessary for addictions counselors to be highly trained.

The Alcohol and Drug Counselor (ADC) credential is IC&RC’s most widely recognized credential. It is the basis of the mandated credential or license in many jurisdictions. The ADC credential is designed to be an entry-level credential and covers the basics of addiction counseling.