The National Opioid Treatment Clinicians Association (NOTCA) was established in 1999 by the Georgia Methadone Providers Coalition (GMPC) to review and authenticate clinical competency, by a credentialing process, for opioid treatment counselors, supervisors and nurses.  October 2007, NOTCA was established as an independent non-profit organization.

The certifications are unique for several reasons.  Preparation for each certification equips individuals with the specific skills and knowledge necessary in a substance abuse treatment facility, as well as the specialized training necessary for effective opioid treatment.  Specialized certifications for opioid treatment clinicians provide persons served, their family members, regulatory agencies, accreditation bodies and other stakeholders assurance of the competence of the clinical treatment team.  It also protects opioid treatment clinicians in the practice of their professions by having the professional recognition of a national certifying body.  NOTCA also provides a reciprocal process for substance abuse counselors with certifications recognized by state and national boards.

Certified Opioid Treatment Clinician (COTC)
To be eligible for initial certification, the applicant must meet the following minimum standards:

• Minimum high school diploma or general education equivalency (GED) diploma
• Minimum of two (2) years full paid professional experience in the practice of chemical abuse and dependency counseling.
• Minimum of six (6) months full paid time professional experience in a methadone or opioid treatment setting
• 280 hours of continuing education hours effective March 1, 2008
• 300 hours of supervised experience effective March 1, 2008
• Supervisor and Professional recommendations

Provisional Certificate
This entry level certificate would be made available to any professional who seeks certification but may not meet minimum standards. The Provisional Certificate is awarded, with the expectation that the clinician granted the certificate would meet the standards at a six month intervals. This requirement demonstrates the attainment of standards established by NOTCA as one moves through the provisional process toward attainment of the full COTC credential. The intent is one of continuous professional improvement.

Certification Process
Certification is a voluntary one for the professional desiring to attain the Certified Opioid Treatment Clinician credential. The COTC is one who demonstrates competence, skill and knowledge in his/her specialty field of treatment modalities for heroine and other opioid addictions. NOTCA strives to recognize the unique specialty of working in the field of opioid treatment.

Education and professional development training events are provided.
For a complete Certification Manual and Application and Certification Packets, click here

For more information, please feel free to contact us.