Addiction Worker
Addiction Worker accreditation provides a structured framework to formally recognise the education, training, and professional development of Addiction Workers. As Ireland’s first dedicated accreditation for this group, it offers a nationally recognised way to acknowledge their skills and dedication and strengthen their professional standing. It also promotes good practice, reduces risk, and improves outcomes for the people accessing addiction services.
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 all government-funded drug and alcohol services. 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 seeking your support.
As an Addiction Worker Member, you’ll have access to a variety of benefits, resources, continuing professional development (CPD), and networking opportunities to support your professional growth.
This accreditation is designed for individuals who have successfully completed a relevant QQI Level 5 qualification or above.
Required Criteria
- 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
Cost
-
Addiction Worker Membership
-
€100
per year
Membership Renewal
-
Addiction Worker Membership Renewal
-
€100
per year
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.
