Addiction Worker

By professionally recognising addiction workers, the Addiction Counsellors of Ireland (ACI) acknowledges the essential contribution they make within the addiction field. We are the first accrediting body in Ireland to provide professional accreditation specifically for addiction workers, giving them the opportunity to gain formal recognition for their expertise and to strengthen their professional standing within the sector.

By becoming an accredited Addiction Worker with ACI, you align yourself with Ireland’s leading accreditation body in the addiction sector, recognised by the HSE and other key organisations. You’ll join a network of professionals committed to upholding ethical and responsible standards in addiction services, ensuring the well-being and safety of those who seek your support.

As an Addiction Worker Member, you’ll have access to a variety of benefits, resources, CPD, and networking opportunities to support your professional development.

This accreditation is designed for individuals who have successfully completed a relevant QQI Level 5 qualification or above.

Required Criteria

  • Have completed a recognised training course in Addiction Studies at QQI Level 5 and where necessary have completed additional training/modules, approved by or accepted by ACI
  • The course shall include theory, skills, and self-development modules
  • The course shall include detailed study of each of the following: - Process of Addiction, Theories of Addiction and Models of Treatment, Understanding Harm Reduction
  • Theoretical study of community development approaches to substance misuse issues and understanding the role of voluntary/statutory and community responses
  • Theoretical study of Key working/Project work/Outreach work skills
  • Theoretical study of process addictions i.e. sex, pornography, gambling, etc
  • Theoretical study of relapse prevention
  • Theoretical study of each of the following:
    • Confidentiality: consent and information sharing
    • Reflective Practice: models and application
    • Self-Care: understanding and techniques
  • Skills development and practice in a minimum of two recognised approaches including but not limited to:
    • Motivational Interviewing
    • Reinforcement Approach
    • SMART Recovery
    • Trauma Informed Practice
    • Family Support 5-Step Model
    • Community Reinforcement Approach Family Training
  • Theory and skills development in each of the following:
    • Understanding and conducting initial and comprehensive assessments
    • Developing care plans
    • Monitoring/reviewing care plan objectives
  • Completed 1500 hrs of work in substance misuse/addiction setting under supervision
  • Accredited Addiction Workers are obliged to have supervision for a minimum of 1 hr monthly
  • Accredited Addiction Workers must submit a Supervisor’s report confirming the completion of 1500 hrs of practice
  • Accept and work within ACI's Code of Ethics and Practice
  • Adhere to the Addiction Counsellors of Ireland Constitution

Benefits

  • Professional recognition
  • Support from an accrediting body representing your interests
  • Access to CPD courses, networking events and bi-monthy peer support groups
  • Regular updates and information relevant within the field of addiction
  • Quarterly ACI Member eNewsletter
  • Certificate for public display
  • Membership ID card
  • Permission to promote membership on stationery, websites, and social media to enhance your professional profile
  • Permission to promote membership in publicity and advertisements to show commitment to professional excellence

Cost

  • Addiction Worker Membership
  • 100
    per year

Membership Renewal

How to Apply

Apply online, or download the application form and return to the Addiction Counsellors of Ireland's office via email or post.

Please refer to the Addiction Worker Membership Criteria to assist when applying. As part of your application you must also download the Supervisor Report, see below, and forward it to your Clinical Supervisor for completion.

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