LAC 46:LXXX.707. Counselor-In-Training (CIT)

A. The ADRA shall recognize as a CIT each candidate who possesses requirements set forth in R.S. 37:3387.3, in addition to the following: 1. attest that they are actively pursuing a career as a licensed, certified, or registered addiction counselor. 2. has not violated any ADRA statute or rule and has not been subject to disciplinary action by any other credentialing board. 3. possesses at least a high school diploma or its equivalent. 4. documents the completion of 180 hours of education specific to addictive disorders. 5. obtains a Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCS), and in collaboration with the CCS, develops a learning plan that includes the 123 competencies and competencies outlined in TAP 21. a. Progressive process in the learning plan must be documented by the CCS annually; and b. The CIT must meet face-to-face with the CCS at least one hour per week. B. The ADRA shall develop CIT guidelines and CCS guidelines and shall post on the ADRA website. The guidelines shall be considered the minimum standards applicable to all CITs and CCSs who must regularly consult the website and review the guidelines to ensure familiarity and compliance with minimum standards. C. CIT status is granted for a 12-month period. During the 12-month period, the CIT shall comply with the ADRA guidelines for CIT status and, if required, sign an agreement acknowledging and consenting to the provisions of the guidelines. D. The CIT shall be allowed to maintain CIT status for an aggregate period not to exceed 72 months. E. Scope of Work 1. CIT status does not authorize the CIT to engage in independent practice under any circumstances. 2. After the CIT has completed 300 hours of direct clinical supervision, the CIT may work in the following core functions only if a credentialed addiction professional is in the building or available by phone for consultation and supervision: a. screening; b. intake; c. orientation; d. client education; and 3. After the CIT has completed 300 hours of direct clinical supervision and documented a level of knowledge and competency as set forth in TAP 21, the CIT may work in the following core functions under the direct supervision of a credentialed addiction professional or licensed mental health professional (LMHP), which professional must be in the building or available by phone for consultation and supervision: a. assessment; b. treatment planning; c. counseling; d. referral; e. crisis intervention; f. report and record keeping; g. consultation; and h. case management. F. Renewal 1. For a CIT to be considered for renewal: a. a completed renewal application approved by the ADRA must be filed prior to the expiration date; and b. include proof that within one year prior to the expiration date, the CIT has completed a minimum of 20 hours of education directly applicable to or related to addictive disorder counseling; and c. include documentation of continued compliance of supervision by a CCS. 2. In addition, the renewal applicant must: a. report any violations of the ADRA statute and rules and disciplinary action by any other credentialing board. b. report any changes in sobriety status, including relapse and recovery dates. c. report any felony arrests and felony convictions. d. report any changes in contact information, including name, address, phone number, and e-mail address.