Earning an Online Certificate in Addictions and Mental Health Treatment at Alvernia University is an excellent transition into a new career field. Addictions and Mental Health Treatment is a dynamic and growing field with an increasing need for qualified, professional employees. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of addictions and mental health counselors is projected to grow 18 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations. The median annual wage in 2022 was $49,710.
With over 40 years of history, Alvernia’s Addictions and Mental Health Treatment program is one of the oldest and best of its kind to be found at the college or university level. Coursework is designed with a practice-based emphasis grounded in current theory and evidence-based practices that can be applied in the real world.
- How to Apply
Alvernia provides an advantage of starting the program at your convenience. To begin the admissions process, please pay a non-refundable $25 application fee (may be waived for employees of partner organizations), and submit the following:
- Complete the online application.
- Submit evidence of high school completion/graduation. Evidence can include high school transcripts, diploma, GED scores or equivalent. This requirement may be waived if an official college transcript is provided validating the completion of 15 credits or more from an accredited school.
- Official transcripts from all previous higher education institutions are required.
- Curriculum
In addition to academic quality, the Addictions and Mental Health Treatment Certificate Program’s commitment to excellence is exemplified through the credentials, dedication and enthusiasm of its faculty. They are not only excellent teachers, but also practicing professionals who stay current with changes in the behavioral healthcare field. Students gain both knowledge and skills for the most up-to-date issues and practices as they prepare to enter the workplace upon graduation.
- AMH 201: Foundations of Addictions
- AMH 202: Origins of Mental Illness
- AMH 204: Theories of Counseling and Psychotherapy
- AMH 303: Counseling Techniques I
- AMH 310: Legal and Ethical Issues in Counseling
- Choice of two AMHT Electives
- Career Success
Graduates of Alvernia’s Addictions and Mental Health Treatment Certificate Program find employment in inpatient and outpatient rehabilitation centers, hospitals, corporate employee assistance programs, prevention and intervention centers, and other social agencies. The Career Services Office can provide assistance with resume preparation, interviewing and job searches. These courses may also be applied to complete the Addictions and Mental Health accelerated bachelor's degree program.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of addictions and mental health counselors is projected to grow 20 percent from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations. The median annual wage in 2021 was $48,520.- Certification
- All courses are approved by the Pennsylvania Certification Board (PCB), the foremost drug and alcohol credentialing organization in Pennsylvania.
- Coursework from the Addictions and Mental Health Treatment program can be used to fulfill PCB requirements for certification and re-certification of addiction counselors. Students from outside Pennsylvania should contact the Chemical Abuse Certification board in their state for information about requirements and the certification process.