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Become a Christ-centered state-certified drug and alcohol counselor.  
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We offer professional Christian training


Are you seeking a professional certification to work in the field of drug and alcohol recovery—but want to do so through a Christ-centered lens? The Association of Christian Alcohol & Drug Counselors (ACADC) provides a pathway to become certified without compromising your faith. Our programs meet all the state requirements while also equipping you with a strong biblical foundation for effective, compassionate care. We are both Christian and professional education providers. 

Two Credentials

CADTP (California Association of DUI Treatment Programs

CADTP is nationally accredited and approved by the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) as a Certifying Organization for Alcohol and Other Drug (AOD) Counselors. Upon completion and passing of the required examination, students receive the SUDCC (Substance Use Disorder Certified Counselor) credential, which qualifies them to work in state-recognized treatment centers.

CDAAC (Christian Drug, Alcohol & Addictions Counselor) 

The CDAAC is a Christian professional certification that assures employers your training includes a comprehensive biblical worldview on addiction and recovery. This credential goes above and beyond the standard curriculum required by the state, preparing you not only for clinical excellence but also for ministry impact. It combines state-approved academic instruction with faith-based insight.
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Steps to Certification 

The CDAAC follows a progressive certification path, allowing students to earn multiple certificates along the way based on their educational and fieldwork milestones. Each stage is designed to equip you with deeper knowledge and greater authority in both secular and faith-based recovery environments. To access the beginning of this journey, you have the opportunity to earn the dual certification at an entry level by fulfilling the following steps: 

  1. Learn in online on demand environment at your own pace.
  2. Submit class summaries reviewed in live time by Director Robert Tucker​
  3. Submit class summaries reviewed in live time by Director Robert Tucker​
  4. Complete internship hours for state certification
  5. Prepare for final test for CDAAC
  6. Prepare for state test SUCCA​

ACADC Accreditation & Education Pathways


The ACADCI – College of Addiction Biblical Studies offers degree programs at the Associate, Bachelor, Master, and Doctoral levels in Addiction Biblical Studies. ACADCI is an official education provider for the California Association of DUI Programs (CADTP) and is nationally accredited through NCCA/ICE. It is also a Continuing Education Provider for CADTP, Breining Institute, and NAADAC (#159494)—the National Association for Addiction Professionals.


About the Program

Our Substance Abuse Counselor Certificate Program equips individuals with the practical skills, theological training, and professional certification needed to counsel those impacted by substance use disorders. Whether your calling is to serve in treatment centers, recovery ministries, or Christian counseling settings, this program provides a holistic approach—meeting both state requirements and spiritual readiness

Additional Credentials

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Become a Chaplain 

Learn about our professional chaplaincy program enabling you to work both in the church and in settings such as hospitals, jails and nursing homes. 
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Be Certified in Anger Management 

Do you want to learn how to help people overcome anger issues? This certificate accompanies our drug and alcohol certificate. 
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Be a Certified Christian Coach 

Our discipleship codependence-based coaching program is trauma-informed and uses the power of Jesus to set hearts free. 

Key Instructors

Robert and Stephanie Tucker lead all instruction at Living Free Institute, bringing nearly fifty years of combined experience in the recovery and healing field. As pioneers in Christ-centered recovery, they have authored books and developed resources that have helped tens of thousands find lasting freedom in Jesus. For nearly two decades, they served in a professional treatment capacity at New Life Spirit Recovery, and today, they continue to lead individuals into transformation through biblically grounded, professional ministry. Their heart is to equip others with both the spiritual authority and practical tools needed for deep, sustainable healing.

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