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Behavioral HealthTop JobColorado Talent Pipeline Report-aligned occupation with strong annual openings, growth, and wage signals.

Certified Addiction Technician (CAT)

Counsel and advise individuals with alcohol, tobacco, drug, or other problems, such as gambling and eating disorders. May counsel individuals, families, or groups or engage in prevention programs.

Annual openings

1,676

BLS median wage

n/a

Typical education

High school (GED), plus completion of required [Certified Addiction Counselor education](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1892z4b5A0gz-fy8pP271f8iCoiLg3n7r/view).

10-year growth

+26%

Career requirements

What does this career require?

The education, credentials, and on-the-job competencies Colorado employers expect for this role.

Typical education

High school (GED), plus completion of required Certified Addiction Counselor education.

Credential requirement

A Certified Addiction Technician certification is required. You will need to pass Colorado’s Mental Health Professions Jurisprudence Exam.

Work experience

This is an entry-level role so no experience is required. However, to become certified as a Certified Addiction Technician, 1,000 hours of work experience is required.

Work-based learning

This can be an excellent way to gain experience as you complete a behavioral health degree.

This is a good entry-level job that helps you begin to build the work experience needed to become a Licensed Addiction Counselor.
A 2020 Colorado law prompted changes affecting the titles and licensure requirements for this job. As training is developed for the CAT and CAS credentials, the Colorado Board will continue to process pending applications for Certified Addiction Counselor (CAC) Is, CAC IIs, and CAC IIIs under the previous requirements through March 31, 2021 when new rules and training will be in place.

Is this work a fit?

What the work actually feels like

How people in this career tend to spend their time, the interests it draws on, and a look at a typical day.

A typical day

  1. Assess individuals' degree of drug dependency by collecting and analyzing urine samples.
  2. Review and evaluate clients' progress in relation to measurable goals described in treatment and care plans.
  3. Develop client treatment plans based on research, clinical experience, and client histories.
  4. Modify treatment plans to comply with changes in client status.
  5. Intervene as an advocate for clients or patients to resolve emergency problems in crisis situations.
  6. Attend training sessions to increase knowledge and skills.