The practice of alcohol and drug counseling is based on the following knowledge:

1. (1) Pharmacology and psychopharmacology of alcohol and drugs (drugs of abuse and drugs used in the treatment of addictions and other psychiatric disorders);

2. (2) Addiction processes, including:

   1. (A) Models and theories of addiction;
   2. (B) Social and cultural context of addiction;
   3. (C) Biological, psychological, and social effects of addiction; and
   4. (D) The differentiation and interrelations of addiction from other medical and psychological conditions;

3. (3) Various treatment models and methods, including:

   1. (A) Models of treatment;
   2. (B) Relapse prevention and continuing care;
   3. (C) Impact of treatment on problems associated with addiction;
   4. (D) Co-occurring psychiatric disorders; and
   5. (E) The importance of community, social, family, and self-help systems;

4. (4) Practical application, including:

   1. (A) Use of interdisciplinary approaches and teams in treatment;
   2. (B) Assessment and diagnostic criteria;
   3. (C) Appropriate use of treatment modalities;
   4. (D) Adapting treatment strategies to a patient’s individual characteristics and needs; and
   5. (E) The use of other resources in securing the best available services for the patient; and

5. (5) Professional standards of practice, including:

   1. (A) Recognizing the needs of diverse populations relating to issues of:

      1. (i) Ethnicity;
      2. (ii) Race;
      3. (iii) Gender;
      4. (iv) Sexual orientation;
      5. (v) HIV/AIDS; and
      6. (vi) Co-occurring psychiatric disorders;
   2. (B) Adherence to ethical and professional standards of conduct;
   3. (C) Commitment to continuing education and clinical supervision;
   4. (D) Awareness of policies and procedures for patients and staff safety;
   5. (E) An understanding of etiology, treatment, and prevention; and
   6. (F) The clinical application of current research in alcohol and drug treatment.

Codification Notes: "HIV" means human immunodeficiency virus. "AIDS" means acquired immunodeficiency syndrome.