The QualCert Level 3 Certificate in Addiction Medicine (Cert AM) is a specialised qualification designed for healthcare professionals and individuals seeking to develop advanced knowledge and practical skills in the assessment, management, and treatment of substance use disorders and behavioural addictions. This course provides learners with a comprehensive understanding of addiction medicine, including the biological, psychological, and social factors influencing addiction, ensuring evidence-based and patient-centred care.
Addiction medicine is a critical area of healthcare focused on understanding, preventing, and treating addictive behaviours, including alcohol, drugs, nicotine, and behavioural addictions such as gambling. The Level 3 Certificate in Addiction Medicine equips learners with the skills to assess patients, design effective treatment plans, implement interventions, and support long-term recovery, while addressing the complex needs of individuals and communities.
The course curriculum covers key topics such as the neurobiology of addiction, psychological theories, substance misuse assessment, treatment strategies, harm reduction, and professional practice. Learners will develop practical competencies in patient assessment, counselling, medication management, relapse prevention, and multi-disciplinary collaboration. Emphasis is placed on evidence-based practice, ethical considerations, and adherence to UK healthcare and regulatory standards.
This qualification is suitable for a wide range of healthcare professionals, including nurses, healthcare assistants, addiction counsellors, social workers, and allied health practitioners. It is also ideal for individuals aspiring to specialise in addiction medicine, mental health support, or substance misuse treatment services.
Completing the QualCert Level 3 Certificate in Addiction Medicine provides a recognised UK qualification that demonstrates competence, enhances professional credibility, and supports career progression in addiction medicine and related healthcare fields. Participants gain both theoretical knowledge and practical skills that can be applied directly in clinical, community, and public health settings, contributing to improved patient outcomes, recovery, and wellbeing.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 3 Certificate in Addiction Medicine (Cert AM) :
The QualCert Level 3 Certificate in Addiction Medicine (Cert AM) , offers 20 Credits, requiring a Total Qualification Time (TQT) of 100 hours, including 70 Guided Learning Hours (GLH).
| Unit Ref# | Unit Title | Credit | GLH | TQT |
| QC270105-1 | Principles of Addiction Medicine | 4 | 14 | 20 |
| QC270105-2 | Neurobiology and Psychology of Addiction | 4 | 14 | 20 |
| QC270105-3 | Assessment and Diagnosis in Addiction Medicine | 4 | 14 | 20 |
| QC270105-4 | Treatment Strategies and Interventions | 4 | 14 | 20 |
| QC270105-5 | Professional Practice, Ethics, and Recovery Support | 4 | 14 | 20 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 3 Certificate in Addiction Medicine (Cert AM) :
Minimum Age
- Learners must be at least 18 years old at the time of enrolment
- Ensures participants have the maturity to engage in professional and clinical learning
Educational Background
- A Level 2 qualification in Health and Social Care, Science, or a related subject is recommended
- Relevant qualifications may include GCSEs, BTECs, NVQs, or equivalent certificates in healthcare or social care
- Provides foundational knowledge in anatomy, physiology, psychology, and health sciences
Experience
- Previous experience in healthcare, social work, counselling, or substance misuse services is desirable but not mandatory
- Experience may include roles such as healthcare assistant, support worker, addiction counsellor, or placements in clinical or community settings
- Practical exposure helps learners understand patient care, clinical procedures, and professional standards
Language Proficiency
- Proficiency in English is essential for effective communication and comprehension of course materials
- Evidence of English competency may be required through GCSE English, IELTS, or an equivalent recognised qualification
- Strong language skills support accurate reporting, patient interaction, and safe clinical practice
Learning Outcomes for the QualCert Level 3 Certificate in Addiction Medicine (Cert AM) :
Principles of Addiction Medicine
- Understand definitions, types, and stages of addiction
- Recognise the social, psychological, and health impacts of addiction
- Identify common patterns of substance misuse and behavioural addictions
- Understand the principles of patient-centred care in addiction medicine
Neurobiology and Psychology of Addiction
- Explain brain mechanisms and neurochemical pathways involved in addiction
- Understand psychological theories and behavioural factors influencing addictive behaviours
- Identify risk factors, triggers, and co-existing mental health conditions
- Apply knowledge to support assessment and intervention strategies
Assessment and Diagnosis in Addiction Medicine
- Conduct basic screening and assessment of patients with substance or behavioural addictions
- Recognise signs and symptoms of addiction and co-morbid conditions
- Apply clinical tools and questionnaires for evaluation
- Maintain accurate records to inform treatment planning
Treatment Strategies and Interventions
- Apply evidence-based pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions
- Implement counselling, motivational interviewing, and relapse prevention techniques
- Promote harm reduction strategies and safe practice
- Develop patient-centred treatment plans to support recovery
Professional Practice, Ethics, and Recovery Support
- Understand professional standards, ethics, and regulatory frameworks in addiction care
- Communicate effectively with patients, families, and multidisciplinary teams
- Support patients through recovery, rehabilitation, and long-term wellness strategies
- Apply reflective practice to improve professional competence and patient outcomes
This course is suitable for individuals seeking to specialise or advance their career in addiction medicine, including:
- Nurses and healthcare assistants working in substance misuse or mental health services
- Addiction counsellors, social workers, and allied health practitioners
- Individuals aspiring to work in clinical, community, or public health settings addressing addiction
- Professionals aiming to improve patient assessment, intervention strategies, and recovery support
- Individuals seeking recognised UK qualifications to enhance professional credibility in addiction medicine
Centres delivering this qualification are expected to:
- Hold accreditation or approval to deliver UK vocational healthcare qualifications
- Employ qualified trainers and assessors with experience in addiction medicine, counselling, or healthcare practice
- Maintain appropriate facilities and access to clinical or community-based training resources
- Provide structured learning materials, including textbooks, digital content, and clinical guidelines
- Implement robust health and safety, safeguarding, and quality assurance policies
- Offer structured support, mentoring, and assessment feedback to learners
- Maintain accurate records of learner progress and assessment outcomes