According to the 2021 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, the U.S. Department
of Health and Human Services’ (HHS) Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
(SAMHSA), estimates that post-pandemic behavioral health needs are at an all-time
high with 8.6 million young adults (ages 18-25), 35.5 million adults over age 26,
and 2.2 million adolescents (ages 12-17) experiencing a substance use disorder. This
survey also denotes that 57.8 million adults, aged 18 or older, reported having Any
Mental Illness (AMI) and was highest among young adults aged 18-25. Among adolescents
aged 12-17, 5 million people had a major depressive episode (MDE) with 27.7% having
used illicit drugs.The Behavioral Health Sciences program is designed to prepare students
for careers working with adults and at-risk youth in substance use and mental health
and to enhance the knowledge and skills of those already working in the field. Skills
include individual, family, and group counseling techniques, as well as assessment,
treatment planning, prevention, crisis intervention, case management, and other topics
related in supporting clients in the behavioral health field. This program was designed
to prepare students to become an alcohol and drug counselor (ADC) in compliance with
the standards set by the West Virginia Certification Board for Addiction and Prevention
Professionals (WVCBAPP) by providing 300 clinical hours and jumpstarting the work
experience through Learn and Earn opportunities with local behavioral health providers.
“Be the change you desire”. Recovery is possible!
More About the Program
Note: Students enrolled in this program MUST submit to and pass drug screening tests- one prior to beginning any practicums or clinical, and one random test during the same semester as practicum/ clinical placement. Students will sign an agreement for this requirement, which will outline the details. Additionally, a background screening will be completed and used for placement purposes only.
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