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Key Changes to Part 853 Credentialing Regulations

New York State Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services (OASAS) announced the release of new credential standards in November 2010. The new Part 853 Credentialing of Addictions Professionals replaces Part 853 and Part 855, and contains all of the credentialing requirements for all OASAS credentials.

Initial Credentialing:

  • Establishes a new professional credential for counselors who specialize in treating problem gambling disorders--Credentialed Problem Gambling Counselor (CPGC).
  • Broadens the definition of "approved work setting" to ensure that individuals who work in related fields may earn qualifying work experience for an OASAS credential.
  • Removes the ten-year limitation on qualifying education and work experience.
  • Allows for a 1,000 hour work substitution for applicants who hold an Associate's Degree in an approved human services field.
  • An applicant is eligible to take the examination upon submission of an application and approval of the educational requirement associated with the credential.
  • Additional education and training requirements have been added to the credentialing process of: (1) tobacco use and nicotine dependence; (2) cultural competence; (3) ethics for addiction professionals; and (4) Child and Abuse Maltreatment: Mandated Reporter Training.

Renewal:

  • Additional education and training requirements have been added to the credentialing process of: (1) tobacco use and nicotine dependence; and (2) Child and Abuse Maltreatment: Mandated Reporter Training.
  • Applications must be submitted 45 days prior to the expiration date of your credential rather than 90 days.
  • A reinstatement process is now available for credentials that have been expired for more than one year.
  • All credentials will be valid for a period of three full years, regardless of the date of renewal or reinstatement date.

The Part 853 Credentialing Regulations are available to view under Laws and Regulations.