Certifications for Alcohol and Other Drugs counselors will establish the required education standards for the position. Certification processes will also be specific on standards of conduct as well as experiences in the field. This field requires specific standards of conduct when working with various types of patients, and the specific drug of choice. Knowledge on addiction as well as the differentiation of alcohol and other drugs effects on various parts of the body and brain are also specified. Knowledge on various types of withdrawal symptoms and situational factors has been present in the certification process. Alcohol and Other Drugs counselors as well as participants will have access to complaint investigations when necessary. Regulations as far as these are necessary not only to protect the safety of the staff but the safety of the Alcohol and Other Drugs participants, residents as well as other patients. Health and safety standards are an important part in the counseling process. The complaint investigations are reserved for looking into various wrong doings that may jeopardize the health and or safety of the staff members, counselors, patients and other residents that take part in any and all aspects of the Alcohol and Other Drugs programming. Improving the quality of the services provided to the patients and residents by all of the staff is one crucial outcome of the complaint investigation process.

Guidelines and restrictions are set for all persons participating in the Alcohol and Other Drugs programs, and are expected to be followed by all participants. Counselors are well versed with these processes throughout the certification expectations. The welfare of any and all participants in the Alcohol and Other Drug programs is crucial to all including the staff. Having all regulations in place can ensure the quality of care by the staff and the well being of any and all patients and or residents.