Certification and Licensing
The RI Dept. of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities and Hospitals, Division of Behavioral Healthcare Services (DBH) is comprised of two program areas: Integrated Mental Health Services and Substance Abuse Treatment and Prevention Services. The Division maintains the overall responsibility for planning, coordinating and administering a comprehensive State-wide system of mental health and substance abuse prevention, intervention and treatment activities.
For an overview of Behavioral Health certification and licensing requirements in RI visit http://www.bhddh.ri.gov/sections/certification_training.php
“There are many pathways to certification, and no “wrong door” for professionals to enter through.”(RICB)
Are you interested in becoming certified as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor or Supervisor, working in the Prevention for Criminal Justice field, or as a Peer Recovery Specialist?
The RICB has created an outline reflecting the general requirements for these certifications, as well as the requirements necessary to obtain other credentials. RICB offers credentials that help a professional progress along a career ladder, beginning wherever one’s current experience and education level permit.
Go to www.ricertboard.org to access their career ladder and specific credentialing information.
LICENSING
The RI Department of Health is responsible for issuing professional licenses for individuals including: Licensed Independent Social Worker, Licensed Mental Health Counselor, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Chemical Dependency Clinical Supervisor, and Licensed Chemical Dependency Professionals.
Marriage, Family and Mental Health Therapy Licensing:
www.health.ri.gov/licenses/detail.php?id=228
Chemical Dependency Profession Licensing:
www.health.ri.gov/licenses/detail.php?id=282
Social Work Licensing:
www.health.ri.gov/licenses/detail.php?id=245
For more information on these licenses, contact the Department of Health at (401)222-5960 or visit www.health.ri.gov.
