Mental Health Services provider holding the hand of a patient

Mental Health and Addiction Studies

Certificate Technical Degree

Want to help people with mental health concerns or substance use disorders? You can with a solid education in prevention, treatment, and recovery. This program will empower you with skills and hands-on opportunities to become a vital part of the solution!

Our Mental Health and Addiction Studies program is approved by The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and the State of Texas.

Earning Potential

Psychiatric Technician: $36,627
Substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselor: $45,883

For more salary information, check out Texas Wages.

Career Opportunities

With a degree or certificate in Mental Health and Addiction Studies, you can work in:

Hospitals
Rehabilitation centers
Veterans Affairs clinics
Alternative schools
More

Locations

North Campus
South Campus
San Jac Online

Mental Health and Addiction Studies, AAS

Technical Degree

The Mental Health and Addiction Studies AAS degree trains mental health technicians and prepares professionals to meet the requirements for testing as a licensed chemical dependency counselor (LCDC).

2 Years

If you're studying full-time, you can complete the 60 credits for this program in six terms, including two summer terms.

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Mental Health Technician, Occupational Certificate

Certificate

Are you a caring person, a good listener, and compassionate to others’ needs? Psychiatric aides and technicians observe and record patient behavior and present their findings to counselors, nurses, and other professional staff. They intervene in crisis situations, actively moderate client behavior, and assist with feeding, moving, dressing patients, personal hygiene, and activities of daily living. If this sounds like you, San Jac’s Mental Health Technician career path is for you.

The Occupational Certificate prepares you for the AAS degree or Certificate of Technology program or to advance in your current career. Become a psychiatric aide or mental health technician.

1.5 Years

If you're studying part-time, you can complete the 21 credits for this certificate in three terms.

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Substance Use Disorder Counseling, Level 2 Certificate

Certificate

The Level 2 Certificate prepares you for the degree program, an entry-level career, or advancement in your current career.You will have the opportunity to get real-life experience through an internship at a substance abuse facility. For full LCDC licensure, the minimum of an associate's degree must be obtained.

1.5 Years

If you're studying full-time, you can complete the 33 credits for this certificate in three terms.

IMPORTANT LINKS

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Substance Use Disorder Counseling, Occupational Certificate

Certificate

The Occupational Certificate prepares you for the AAS degree or Certificate of Technology program or to advance in your current career. Make a difference in the lives of those facing substance use disorders. For full LCDC licensure, the minimum of an associate's degree must be obtained.

1 Year

If you're studying part-time, you can complete the 18 credits for this certificate in two terms.

IMPORTANT LINKS

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San Jac has transfer agreements with designated universities to earn a 4-year degree. Contact the San Jac Mental Health and Addiction Studies Department for details.

What can I do with a degree in Mental Health and Addiction Studies from San Jacinto College?

A degree in Mental Health and Addiction Studies from San Jacinto College can prepare you for careers such as an LCDC (licensed chemical dependency or substance use disorder) counselor, future therapist, or support specialist, focusing on helping individuals with mental health and addiction challenges.

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What types of courses are included in the Mental Health and Addiction Studies program?

The program includes courses on topics like counseling theories, abnormal psychology, ethics and intervention strategies to equip students with the skills needed for a career in addiction counseling and mental health support.

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How long does it take to complete a Mental Health and Addiction Studies program at San Jacinto College?

The duration of the program depends on the course load each semester. Typically, students can complete the program in two years if attending full-time. Certificates can be completed in 2-3 semesters.

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What skills will I gain from the Mental Health and Addiction Studies program?

Students will learn how to assess and support individuals with substance use disorders and mental health needs, apply counseling techniques, and understand psychological theories and principles.

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Are there any practical training opportunities in the Mental Health and Addiction Studies program?

Yes, the program includes practicum opportunities, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in real-world mental health settings.

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Is financial aid available for the Mental Health and Addiction Studies program at San Jacinto College?

Yes, financial aid options such as scholarships, grants, and payment plans are available for eligible students in the Mental Health and Addiction Studies program.

Paying for College

What career opportunities are available after completing the Mental Health and Addiction Studies program?

Graduates can pursue roles such as substance use disorder counselor, clinical case manager, recovery support advocate or mental health technician in various settings like clinics, hospitals, and community organizations.

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Who should consider enrolling in the Mental Health and Addiction Studies program?

The program is ideal for individuals passionate about helping others and those interested in a career focused on supporting individuals with substance use and mental health challenges.

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How can I apply to the Mental Health and Addiction Studies program at San Jacinto College?

Prospective students can apply through the San Jacinto College admissions portal, and are encouraged to meet with an advisor to discuss program requirements and plan their coursework.

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Does San Jacinto College offer support services for Mental Health and Addiction Studies students?

Yes, San Jacinto College offers academic advising, counseling services, and career guidance to support students throughout their studies in the Mental Health and Addiction Studies program.

Academic Support

National Addiction Studies Accreditation Commission

The San Jacinto College Mental Health and Addiction Studies AAS degree is accredited by the National Addiction Studies Accreditation Commission (NASAC).

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https://nasac-accreditation.org/

Admissions Requirements

Ready to take the next step? Find out everything you need to know about applying. From program costs to application steps, find it all here!

Request More Info Program Costs

At San Jac, we believe college shouldn’t be a financial burden. That’s why we have low tuition costs, no fees, and a wide range of grants and scholarships you can apply for. Learn more and discover a financial path that funds your dreams!

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Compassionate Care, Remarkable Results

It’s my job to create a culture…that attracts and motivates clients to recovery and the staff to compassionate, diligent care for both themselves and our clients. There are some heartbreaks, to be sure, but the wins are incredible. Frequently, (the staff) are referred to as miracles by clients and their families.”

Larry Wyntjes

Mental Health Services graduate Clear Lake’s Into Action Recovery Center Executive Director

Larry Wyntjes understands the highs and lows of treating substance abuse. But despite the hard days, he also knows just how important his role is. That’s because his passion for helping others stems from personal experiences. His family’s struggle with addiction inspired him to enroll in San Jac’s mental health program. Today, he is the Executive Director of Clear Lake’s Into Action Recovery Center. Here, he puts his degree to use, making a positive impact in his community.