Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota proudly marks an exciting milestone: the first two Master of Social Work students have officially completed the newly launched MSW with Addictions Certificate option, launched in Spring 2025. This innovative pathway allows MSW students to graduate eligible for dual licensure—as Licensed Social Workers and Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselors (LADC)—positioning them to meet the critical workforce needs in behavioral health and substance use treatment across Minnesota and beyond.
Abbie D’Amour completed her internship at Park Avenue Center in Minneapolis, where her clinical skill, professionalism, and client-centered approach quickly made an impact. Park Avenue Center recognized her exceptional promise and offered her a position even before she completed her internship hours. Abbie successfully finished the certificate in August.
Chelsey Wieling, also completing the certificate in August, embodies the opportunities this pathway opens for those already working in the field. Chelsey’s employment-based placement with Minnesota Adult & Teen Challenge allowed her to deepen her competencies in addictions counseling while advancing her MSW education. Her successful completion of the certificate highlights the flexibility and accessibility of this option for working professionals committed to helping individuals and families navigate recovery.
These graduates’ achievements underscore the program’s commitment to preparing well-rounded, ethically grounded, and clinically competent social workers. Saint Mary’s looks forward to many more MSW students pursuing this dual-licensure pathway in the years ahead.
