Addiction Worker Membership

As a progressive accrediting body, we understand the importance of continuously evolving to meet the shifting demands of drug policies, practices, and emerging needs. With this in mind, we are proud to introduce our newest accreditation category, Addiction Worker Membership. By professionally recognising addiction workers, we are supporting and acknowledging a large group of professionals we believe are grossly underrepresented and underappreciated within the addiction field.

By becoming an accredited Addiction Worker with the Addiction Counsellors of Ireland (ACI), you are aligning 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.

Addiction Worker Members have access to certain benefits, resources, CPD and networking opportunities provided by ACI.

This category is best suited to individuals who have completed a relevant QQI Level 5 qualification and above.

Required Criteria

When applying for Addiction Worker Membership, applicants must:

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

Addiction Worker Membership offers a number of benefits, including:

Professionally recognised
Certificate for public display
Membership ID Card
Access to CPD courses and networking events
Quarterly ACI Member eNewsletter
Regular updates and information relevant within the field of addiction
Support from an accrediting body representing your interests
Permission to promote membership on stationary and other communications, including digital i.e. websites, social media
Permission to promote membership in any publicity or advertisment

Cost

Membership runs annually from August to July:

Addiction Worker Membership
€100
per year

Membership Renewal

Members must renew their membership annually by July 31st, with payment of a non-refundable fee:

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 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 to your Clinical Supervisor for completion.