Addiction Studies Ireland: Professional Diploma Training for Counsellors

Addiction affects individuals, families, and communities across Ireland in profound ways. For counsellors, psychotherapists, and healthcare professionals seeking to develop specialist competence in this area, the Professional Diploma in Addiction Studies at ICPS College provides a comprehensive, accredited pathway to practice.

Ireland continues to face significant challenges around alcohol dependence, drug misuse, gambling addiction, and behavioural addictions. Professionals who understand the clinical, psychological, and social dimensions of addiction are in growing demand across statutory, voluntary, and private sectors.

What Does the Professional Diploma in Addiction Studies Cover?

The ten-module programme explores addiction from multiple perspectives — biological, psychological, social, and spiritual. You will study substance misuse, dual diagnosis, family systems, motivational interviewing, harm reduction, relapse prevention, and ethical considerations in addiction practice. The course is delivered fully live online via Zoom across ten weeks, earning sixty CPD credits on completion.

Who Is This Course For?

This diploma is designed for practising counsellors and psychotherapists, social care professionals, nurses, community workers, probation officers, and anyone working in direct support roles with people affected by addiction. It is also suitable for those seeking to move into the addiction sector from a related professional background.

Accreditation and Related Programmes

The Professional Diploma in Addiction Studies is accredited by the Professional Development Consortium and the CPD Standards Office. ICPS College also offers the Professional Diploma in Trauma-Informed Psychotherapy, the Professional Diploma in Group Therapy Facilitation, and the Professional Diploma in Child Counselling, all live online.

Why Choose ICPS College?

ICPS College delivers live-online professional education to counsellors and psychotherapists across Ireland and internationally. Small cohorts ensure individual attention and genuine clinical discussion. Read our guide on how to choose and book an ICPS College course to learn more.

Visit the Addiction Studies course page for full details on content, fees, upcoming cohort dates, and how to book your place.