SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELOR License in Wisconsin
Quick Answer
To become a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) in Wisconsin, you need specialized education in substance abuse and training in eight practice dimensions. CSACs provide screening, assessment, treatment planning, counseling, and case management services.
- Exam
- IC&RC or state-specific exam
- Timeline
- 2-4 years depending on credential level
- Background Check
- Required
Requirements
SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELOR license in Wisconsin
SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELOR Salary in Wisconsin
Entry Level
$44,660
Median
$62,470
Experienced
$98,290
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics. Salary data is for informational purposes only.
How to Get Licensed
Step-by-step roadmap to becoming a licensed SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELOR in Wisconsin.
- 1
Complete Education Requirements
Degree required
- 2
Submit Background Check
Specific type of conviction prohibited
- 3
Pass the Required Exam
Third-party exam required — IC&RC or state-specific exam
- 4
Submit Your Application
File your application with the licensing agency.
- 5
Receive Your License
Processing typically takes 2-4 years depending on credential level.
SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELOR Licensing in Wisconsin: What to Know
Certified as 'SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELOR.' A CSAC has specialized education in substance abuse and training in eight practice dimensions. Treatment functions include: patient screening, assessment, treatment planning, intervention, individual/group/family counseling, referral, discharge planning, aftercare, record keeping, consultation, recovery and case management, and may include crisis intervention, client education, employment and problem resolution. Ref: s. HFS 75.02(90), Wis. Admin. Code.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long does it take to get a SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELOR license in Wisconsin?
- The process typically takes 2-4 years depending on credential level, depending on education completion and exam scheduling.
- What exam do I need for a SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELOR license in Wisconsin?
- You need to pass the IC&RC or state-specific exam. Third-party exam required
Considering another state?
Compare SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELOR requirements across states.
View all states →Data from CareerOneStop (DOLETA/DEED). Last updated: February 15, 2026.