53-24-215. Certification of chemical dependency counselors. (1) The department shall grant certification to practice as a certified chemical dependency counselor to any person who meets the eligibility requirements and competency standards defined in rules adopted under 53-24-204.
     (2) A person may apply for certification as a certified chemical dependency counselor if the person has:
     (a) (i) received a baccalaureate degree in alcohol and drug studies, psychology, sociology, social work, counseling, or a related field from an accredited college or university;
     (ii) received an associate of arts degree in alcohol and drug studies, chemical dependency, or substance abuse from an accredited institution; or
     (iii) successfully completed at least 1 year of formalized training in chemical dependency counseling in a program approved by the department or recognized under the laws of another state; and
     (b) completed supervised work experience in a state-approved chemical dependency treatment program defined in rules under 53-24-204, in an internship approved by the department, or in a similar program recognized under the laws of another state.
     (3) The department shall require an applicant to successfully complete a competency examination process defined in rules adopted under 53-24-204.
     (4) The department may provide by rule for certification without examination of a person certified under the laws of another state if the person meets the minimum eligibility requirements and competency standards for certification in Montana.

     History: En. Sec. 1, Ch. 508, L. 1991; amd. Sec. 1, Ch. 249, L. 1995.