The program includes classroom instruction and field-based clinical experience. Students will acquire competencies in interviewing, group dynamics, case management, physiology of chemical dependency, pharmacology related to chemical dependency, the impact of chemical dependency on family members, and specific counseling interventions for working with chemical dependent clients. Washington State law requires completion of specific credits in chemical dependency, plus an HIV/AIDS course (SHS 150) to practice as a chemical dependency counselor. Additional course work is designed to further enhance student skills and employability. Courses meet the Washington State Department of Alcohol and Substance Abuse, and the Chemical Dependency Counselor Certification Board requirements for chemical dependency qualification.