Clinical social workers commonly hold a master's degree in social work and have completed two years of supervised practice to obtain a clinical license.

The Licensed Clinical Social Worker has a graduate academic degree, has had supervised clinical work experience, and has passed a national- or state- certified licensing exam. They are qualified to assess, diagnose and treat mental and emotional conditions and addictions, but cannot prescribe drugs.

Certification for Alcohol and Drug Counselors requires a minimum of a bachelor's degree, substantial training in alcohol and drug education, and 4,000 hours of supervised counseling experience.