Question 1

Is Life Changing Ministries, Inc. an accredited institution?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We are accredited by Wisconsin’s Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) to train and prepare individuals for the Substance Abuse Counselor in Training Certificate. We are pleased that you are interested in joining our program.

We hope the information below will address any questions you may have.

Program Director: Mr. Robert Harris

Question 2

What are the times and dates for training?

Accepted Answer

Our in-person classes are held every Tuesday from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at our Training Center, located at 6737 N. Teutonia Avenue, Milwaukee, WI 53209.

Virtual classes are conducted via Zoom on Thursdays from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Please note that attendance at both the in-person and virtual sessions is required in order to receive credit for the full 100-hour training requirement.

Question 3

What happens after I finish the program?

Accepted Answer

After completing the program, you will take the state certification exam. Upon successfully passing the exam, you will seek placement with a community-based organization or clinic in need of support from a substance abuse counselor. Once a placement is secured and approved by your supervisor, you will begin your professional journey as a Substance Abuse Counselor-in-Training.

Question 4

Program Cost & Payment Options:

Accepted Answer

Program Cost: $3,500

Payment Options:

We offer private-pay payment plans, and qualified individuals may inquire with their local W-2, FSET, or DVR program offices to determine eligibility for a training voucher. Please note that you must have an active case with one of these agencies, and voucher approval must be obtained prior to enrollment.

Alternatively, students may enroll by submitting a $500 enrollment fee, followed by biweekly payments of $500 until the tuition balance is paid in full.

Please be advised that transcripts will not be released until all program fees have been satisfied. All enrollment fees are non-refundable.

Question 5

What type of careers can I obtain with my SAC-IT Certification?

Accepted Answer

With a Substance Abuse Counselor in Training (SAC-IT) Certification, you can pursue entry-level roles in the behavioral health and human services field while working toward full certification.

Common career opportunities include:

Substance Abuse Counselor in Training 
(under clinical supervision)

Prevention or Outreach Specialist 
(in community-based organizations)

Intake Coordinator or Admissions Assistant 
(at treatment centers)

Residential Treatment Staff 
(in inpatient or recovery facilities)

Recovery Support Specialist or Peer Support Specialist

Behavioral Health Technician

Case Manager or Case Aide

These roles are typically available in settings such as outpatient clinics, residential treatment facilities, hospitals, correctional institutions, the Department of Corrections, and community-based organizations. The SAC-IT certification serves as a stepping stone, allowing you to gain supervised experience required for advancement to a fully licensed Substance Abuse Counselor.

Question 6

How much can I get paid as a Certified Substance Abuse Counselor-in-Training?

Accepted Answer

As a Substance Abuse Counselor-in-Training (SAC-IT) in Wisconsin, your pay will typically fall on the entry-level side of the field since you are working under supervision while gaining experience.

Typical Pay Range:

Hourly: $18 – $28+ per hour 
Annual: $38,000 – $55,000+ per year

Once you become fully certified (SAC or higher), your earning potential increases:

Certified counselors: about $25–$31+/hour on average 
Experienced/clinical roles: can reach $70K+ annually

Question 7

Does this opportunity also apply to Agency Staff and Professional Groups?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We offer a professional business discount for agencies, organizations, and industry professionals who are interested in pursuing certification as a Substance Abuse Counselor-in-Training (SAC-IT). This discounted rate is designed to support workforce development by making training more accessible for teams and individuals seeking to enter or advance within the substance abuse counseling field.

DISCOUNT BREAKDOWN:

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