ICTQual AB Level 3 Certificate in Addiction Medicine (Cert AM)

The ICTQual AB Level 3 Certificate in Addiction Medicine (Cert AM) is a specialised qualification designed to provide learners with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in the study, prevention, and management of substance use disorders and behavioural addictions. This course is ideal for individuals seeking to develop expertise in addiction healthcare, equipping them to support patients and clients in clinical, community, and healthcare settings.

Learners will explore the physiological, psychological, and social aspects of addiction, including the effects of alcohol, drugs, and other addictive behaviours on mental and physical health. The programme covers assessment methods, treatment approaches, rehabilitation strategies, and relapse prevention, with an emphasis on patient-centred care, ethical practice, and effective communication. Learners will gain insights into evidence-based interventions, counselling techniques, and the role of multidisciplinary teams in supporting recovery and promoting long-term wellbeing.

The ICTQual AB Level 3 Certificate in Addiction Medicine is suitable for healthcare professionals, clinical support staff, social care workers, and individuals working in medical, community, or allied health environments who wish to specialise in addiction medicine. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical applications, learners develop the skills to assess patient needs, implement treatment plans, and contribute effectively to multidisciplinary healthcare teams focused on addiction recovery.

Upon completion, learners will be equipped to understand the principles of addiction medicine, recognise and manage common substance use and behavioural disorders, and provide informed support to patients in a variety of healthcare and community settings. This qualification also serves as a foundation for further academic study or career progression in healthcare, social care, counselling, and allied health professions, enabling learners to build a specialised career in addiction medicine while making a meaningful impact on patient health and wellbeing.

Course overview

Level 3 Certificate in Addiction Medicine (Cert AM)

To enrol in ICTQual AB Level 3 Certificate in Addiction Medicine (Cert AM), learner must meet the following entry requirements:

  • Age Requirement: Learners must be at least 16 years old at the time of registration.
  • Educational Background: A Level 2 qualification (or equivalent) in science, healthcare, social care, or a related subject is recommended. Learners with a strong interest in addiction medicine, mental health, or social care may also be considered.
  • Work Experience: No prior experience in addiction medicine is required. However, learners with a background in healthcare, social care, counselling, or allied health may find the course particularly beneficial.
  • English Proficiency: As the course is delivered in English, learners should have good reading, writing, and communication skills. An IELTS score of 5.5 (or equivalent) is recommended for non-native English speakers.
  • Technical Requirements: Learners need access to a computer or smart device with internet connectivity to access online course materials, assessments, and interactive resources (if studying via online delivery).

This qualification, the ICTQual AB Level 3 Certificate in Addiction Medicine (Cert AM), consists of 6 mandatory units.

  1. Introduction to Addiction Medicine and Substance Use
  2. Anatomy, Physiology, and Psychology of Addiction
  3. Common Addictive Substances and Behavioural Addictions
  4. Assessment, Diagnosis, and Treatment in Addiction Medicine
  5. Rehabilitation, Relapse Prevention, and Patient Management
  6. Communication, Ethics, and Professional Practice in Addiction Care

Learning Outcomes for the Study Units:

1. Introduction to Addiction Medicine and Substance Use

  • Understand the scope and importance of addiction medicine in healthcare and social care.
  • Define key concepts, terminology, and principles related to substance use and behavioural addictions.
  • Recognise the impact of addiction on individual, family, and community wellbeing.

2. Anatomy, Physiology, and Psychology of Addiction

  • Describe the effects of addictive substances on the brain and body.
  • Explain the psychological and physiological mechanisms underlying addiction and dependency.
  • Understand how biological and psychological factors interact in substance use and behavioural disorders.

3. Common Addictive Substances and Behavioural Addictions

  • Identify commonly abused substances such as alcohol, drugs, and prescription medications.
  • Recognise behavioural addictions including gambling, gaming, and other compulsive behaviours.
  • Understand the signs, symptoms, and risk factors associated with various addictions.

4. Assessment, Diagnosis, and Treatment in Addiction Medicine

  • Apply principles of assessment and diagnosis for substance use and behavioural disorders.
  • Understand treatment approaches including counselling, medication-assisted therapy, and behavioural interventions.
  • Recognise the role of multidisciplinary teams in providing comprehensive addiction care.

5. Rehabilitation, Relapse Prevention, and Patient Management

  • Understand rehabilitation strategies and programmes for individuals with addiction.
  • Apply relapse prevention techniques and long-term support methods.
  • Develop skills to manage patient care plans and monitor progress in addiction recovery.

6. Communication, Ethics, and Professional Practice in Addiction Care

  • Demonstrate effective communication with patients, families, and healthcare teams.
  • Understand ethical, legal, and professional responsibilities in addiction medicine.
  • Apply principles of empathy, confidentiality, and patient-centred care in addiction support.

The ICTQual AB Level 3 Certificate in Addiction Medicine (Cert AM) equips learners with essential knowledge and practical skills in addiction healthcare, rehabilitation, and patient support. This qualification provides a strong foundation for further academic study or career development, enabling learners to support individuals with substance use disorders and behavioural addictions in clinical, community, and healthcare settings.

Academic Progression

  • Progress to higher-level qualifications such as:
    • ICTQual AB Level 4 Diploma in Addiction Medicine or Substance Use Management
    • Diplomas in Healthcare, Mental Health, or Allied Health Professions
  • Pathway to advanced studies in:
    • Counselling and Psychotherapy Specialisations
    • Public Health and Community Health Programmes
    • Nursing with a focus on mental health and addiction care

Career Opportunities

  • Entry-level roles in healthcare, social care, and support services, including:
    • Clinical Support Worker specialising in addiction care
    • Healthcare Assistant or Rehabilitation Support Worker
    • Community Health Worker supporting patients with substance use disorders
    • Support roles in hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation centres, and social care organisations

Skills Development

  • Builds subject-specific knowledge in addiction medicine and patient rehabilitation
  • Enhances clinical assessment, treatment planning, and patient support skills
  • Strengthens communication, empathy, and professional practice in healthcare and social care settings
  • Develops awareness of ethical, legal, and regulatory responsibilities in addiction management

FAQs

This course is suitable for aspiring healthcare professionals, clinical support staff, social care workers, and individuals working in medical, mental health, or community care environments who wish to specialise in addiction medicine.

Learners must be 16 years or older and ideally hold a Level 2 qualification (or equivalent) in science, healthcare, social care, or a related subject. No prior experience in addiction medicine is required. Learners should have good English proficiency and access to a computer or smart device with internet connectivity.

ICTQual AB Level 3 Certificate in Addiction Medicine (Cert AM) is 15 days training program. As this Training program have mandatory assessment which will be conducted through Approved Training Centers.

ICTQual AB allows to offer Level 3 Certificate in Addiction Medicine (Cert AM) in various formats, including online, in-person, or a combination of both. Participants can choose the format that best fits their schedule and learning preferences. But final decision is made by ATC.

Yes, ICTQual AB Level 3 Certificate in Addiction Medicine (Cert AM) consist of 6 mandatory assessments . These assessments are designed to evaluate participants’ comprehension of course material and their capacity to apply concepts in practical situations. It is mandatory to pass assessments with a minimum score of 75%