Addiction Counseling

Apply to Addiction Counseling

Fall 2025 was the last term applications were accepted for the current Addiction Counseling Certificate and Associate Degree. Admissions is now closed.

Due to the large volume of applications we received for Fall 2025, and the phase out of our current Certificate and Degree, we will not be able to accept applications for Winter 2026 as planned.

If you were planning on applying for Winter 2026 (or beyond) please contact healthca@pcc.edu for updated planning.

  • New open enrollment Counselor in Training Certificate: The new Counselor in Training (CIT) Certificate, launching Fall 2026, will be open enrollment. Students will just need to select this major and complete the required coursework.
  • New limited entry Addiction Associate Degree: Students interested in completing the full Addiction Associate Degree (AAC) will first need to complete all requirements for the CIT Certificate. Upon completion of the CIT there will be a process to complete the remaining requirements for the AAC. More details about this process will be shared as they become available.
Questions? Schedule a visit or talk with a program advisor.

How to apply

  1. Apply to PCC

    Applying to PCC is free and only takes a few minutes. Complete this step as soon as possible so you can start using PCC resources. Choose the Less Than One Year Certificate – Counselor in Training (CIT) as your major.

    Apply to PCC

  2. Application timeline
    Term you want to start Apply to Addiction Counseling
    Fall 2025 Admission closed
    Winter 2026 Admission closed
    Contact admissions specialist for planning

    All interested students must fill out the CIT intention form. After filling out the form the admissions specialist will be in touch to support you in planning and achieving your goals.

  3. Take CIT Certificate relevant classes
  4. These classes all count toward the new CIT Certificate and must be completed with a “C” or better. Open classes can be taken as the current or new course number.
  5. Current course number New course number Notes
    Open classes – can be taken in their current version. All are required for CIT. Expect to offer starting Winter, Spring or Summer 2026 depending on course.
    AD 101 AD 120E
    AD 102 AD 121E
    AD 104 AD 124E
    AD 106 AD 123E
    AD 156 AD 122E
    AD 160 AD 142E
    AD elective options with equivalents in the CIT below. 9 credits required for CIT.
    AD 103 AD 130F
    AD 107 AD 107 No number change
    AD 184 AD 129F
    AD 202 AD 202 No number change
    AD 256 AD 226G Requires completion of AD 160 or AD 142E first
    Other elective options with no name change: PSY 213, PSY 215, PSY 222, PSY 201AZ, PSY 202AZ, PSY 239, SOC 204Z, SOC 205Z, SOC 206Z, HUS 101, HUS 102, HUS 104, HUS 105, HUS 106, HUS 107 and HUS 108 There are a few new elective options for the CIT but they will not be offered the 2025-26 academic year.
    Classes currently limited entry and can’t be taken in their current version Expect to start winter, spring or summer 2026
    AD 152 AD 143E
    AD 154 AD 141E
    AD 161 AD 144E

Background check

It is standard practice for practicum sites (for the AAC) and employers to require a background check. Historically the addictions profession has been more understanding of previous experience within the justice system. For folks who are currently involved in the justice system, or wanting more information, please reach out to healthca@pcc.edu.

Recommended counseling

We strongly recommend that applicants also receive personal counseling. PCC’s Counseling Services provides free, professional counseling services to students. We can recommend other low and no-cost counseling services in the Portland area.

A professional counselor can help you:

  • Examine your motivations for entering the program.
  • Resolve issues that may negatively impact your progress.
  • Reinforce your positive motivations.
  • Develop a powerful tool in your practice: your self-awareness and psychological health.
  • Develop empathy for those who seek counseling services.

In other words, it helps you to understand what it feels like to be a client.

Recommended technology skills

Strong technology skills are essential for success in college and in this career. If you have little experience using computers, please contact healthca@pcc.edu for information on ways you can gain skills and experience. If you have basic computer skills but would like to strengthen your skills using tools like Microsoft Word, Power Point, Excel and more, you may want to take CIS 120 – Digital Literacy I.