Vocational Training in California Since 1985

I wanted to clear up confusion circulating between counselors, treatment providers, and counties regarding the implementation of AB 2473 and the ASCEND program. Registered counselors do NOT need to complete the ASCEND program to meet AB 2473 requirements. In fact, CAADE recommends that registered counselors choose alternative options to meet the recently changed counselor requirements for several reasons.

First-year counselors registering on or after July 1, 2025 (last year) are required to (1) complete at least 80 hours of education and (2) complete education that includes 12 specific topics within six months of registration and before registration renewal. The education that a certifying organization accepts to meet these requirements must count towards the education requirements needed for certification. This means the education must align with the certifying organization's educational standards.

Meeting the requirements for AB 2473, whether through ASCEND or at other options, does not mean that a counselor has met the requirements for certification. All registered counselors are required to complete annual education toward certification to renew their registration. While ASCEND is marketed as an easy and quick option to meet first-year registration requirements, it does not meet the full certification requirements, and it is not accepted as transfer credit by most educational institutions that offer certification-eligible education. As a reminder, CAADE/ACCBC does not accept ASCEND.

As alternatives, there are more than 35 pre-approved options that counselors can choose instead of ASCEND. Beyond the options that CAADE pre-approved, any education approved by a certification organization for certification can meet the AB 2473 requirements if approved by the certifying organization through which the counselor is credentialed. Pursuing these routes allows individuals to start and complete their education at the same institution.

There are plenty of seats still available for upcoming starts in addiction studies programs at colleges across the state. Some colleges may have scholarships, and community colleges are free to almost all California residents seeking to become addiction counselors. Pell Grants and other gift aid may also be available to help cover the costs of attending college, including housing, food, clothing, transportation, childcare, and other needs. Please review options and start dates on CAADE's website.

All the best,