Sec. 5.7. (a) “Practice of addiction counseling” means the providing of professional services that are delivered by a licensed addiction counselor, that are designed to change substance use or addictive behavior, and that involve specialized knowledge and skill related to addictions and addictive behaviors, including understanding addiction, knowledge of the treatment process, application to practice, and professional readiness. The term includes:

(1) gathering information through structured interview screens using routine protocols;

(2) reviewing assessment findings to assist in the development of a plan individualized for treatment services and to coordinate services;

(3) referring for assessment, diagnosis, evaluation, and mental health therapy;

(4) providing client and family education related to addictions;

(5) providing information on social networks and community systems for referrals and discharge planning;

(6) participating in multidisciplinary treatment team meetings or consulting with clinical addiction professionals;

(7) counseling, through individual and group counseling, as well as group and family education, to treat addiction and substance abuse in a variety of settings, including:

(A) mental and physical health facilities; and

(B) child and family service agencies; and

(8) maintaining the highest level of professionalism and ethical responsibility.

     (b) The term does not include the use of psychotherapy or diagnosis (as defined in IC 25-22.5-1-1.1(c) or as defined as the practice of psychology under IC 25-33-1-2(a)).

     (c) For an individual who obtains a license as an addiction counselor by:

(1) holding a valid:

(A) level II or higher certification or the equivalent certification from a credentialing agency approved by the division of mental health and addiction; or

(B) certification as an addiction counselor or addiction therapist from a credentialing agency that is approved by the board;

(2) having at least ten (10) years of experience in addiction counseling;

(3) furnishing satisfactory evidence to the board that the individual does not have:

(A) a conviction for a crime of violence (as defined in IC 35-50-1-2); or

(B) a conviction in the previous two (2) years that has a direct bearing on the individual’s ability to practice competently; and

(4) filing an initial application with the board before July 1, 2010;

the term includes the provision of addiction counseling services in private practice in consultation with other licensed professionals as required by the client’s individualized treatment plan.

As added by P.L.122-2009, SEC.20. Amended by P.L.142-2020, SEC.27.