About - Addiction Counsellors of Ireland

About Addiction Counsellors of Ireland (ACI)

Addiction Counsellors of Ireland (ACI) is Ireland’s specialist accrediting and representative body for professionals working in the field of addiction. Established in 1990 as the Irish Association of Alcohol and Addiction Counsellors (IAAAC), ACI has been accrediting, representing, and supporting addiction professionals across Ireland for over 35 years.

ACI represents over 500 members, including students of addiction, Addiction Counsellors, Addiction Workers, Clinical Supervisors, and Addiction Worker Supervisors working across clinical, community, voluntary, and private settings. ACI is formally recognised by the HSE and all government-funded drug and alcohol services as a professional accrediting body within the sector.

Our Role

ACI exists to uphold and advance professionalism in the addiction sector. Through accreditation frameworks, we ensure that our members meet high standards of competence, ethics, and practice. This supports the delivery of safe, effective, and accountable services for individuals, families, and communities affected by addiction.

We also act as a representative body for our members, advocating for the ongoing development and recognition of addiction professions within a changing policy and service landscape.

Beyond accreditation and representation, ACI supports ongoing professional development through education, engagement, and peer connection. We provide opportunities for members to connect, share knowledge, and grow within a professional community committed to excellence in practice.

For those seeking support, our website includes a full directory of our accredited members, allowing the public to connect with qualified addiction specialists in their area.

Expanding Professional Recognition

In 2024, ACI expanded its accreditation framework to formally include Addiction Workers and Addiction Worker Supervisors. This introduced Ireland’s first dedicated accreditation pathway for Addiction Workers, strengthening professional recognition for a group that has historically lacked formal accreditation structures.

What We Offer Our Members

ACI provides a range of services and opportunities designed to support addiction professionals throughout their careers and strengthen the sector as a whole:

Accreditation – Formal recognition of education, training, and professional development, ensuring members meet standards of competence and ethical practice
Continuous Professional Development – Access to learning opportunities, workshops, and networking events to enhance skills and knowledge
Support and Guidance – Resources and advice to help members stay informed, navigate challenges, and maintain high standards of practice
Member Community – Opportunities to connect with fellow professionals, share experiences, and collaborate on best practice initiatives
Sector Strengthening – Advancing recognition, standards, and professionalism across the sector to ensure addiction professionals are recognised and heard
Accredited Members Directory – Our public directory helps the public connect with qualified addiction specialists across Ireland

Addiction Counsellors of Ireland
Denshaw House
120 / 121 Baggot St.
Dublin 2
D02 FD45

01 797 9187
info@addictioncounsellors.ie