Winter 2026 Newsletter

Happy Holidays, Everyone!

As we conclude another year, we want to extend our sincere appreciation for your continued support of the IBADCC board. This season offers a meaningful opportunity to reflect on

progress that has been made as well as the challenges that have been navigated. This year, the board has focused on enhancing our website and improving the Certemy platform while ensuring responsible use of funds.

Looking ahead, the new year brings fresh possibilities and renewed momentum. We remain dedicated to strengthening our community of Certified Professionals who deliver vital supportand services to our recovery community. Your commitment and partnership continue to drive our

progress, and we are grateful for the role you play in our growth. We truly appreciate every single one of you.

We wish you a restful end to the year and an inspiring start to the one ahead.

Kind Regards,

Your IBADCC Board

ETHICS

In recent months, we have received multiple ethical complaints regarding inappropriate relationships with clients. These reports raise serious concerns and serve as a critical reminder of our shared responsibility to uphold the highest standards of professional conduct. We ask all professionals to review the IBADCC Code of Ethics, particularly the following sections related to professional boundaries and relationships with clients:

Section I-11: Multiple/Dual Relationships

Addiction Professionals shall make every effort to avoid multiple relationships with a client. When a dual relationship is unavoidable, the professional shall take extra care to ensure that professional judgment is not impaired and there is no risk of client exploitation. Such relationships include, but are not limited to, members of the provider’s immediate or extended family, business associates, or individuals with close personal relationships with the professional or their family. When extending these boundaries, providers shall take appropriate precautions—such as informed consent, consultation, supervision, and documentation—to ensure sound judgment and prevent harm.

Consultation and supervision must be obtained, and recommendations documented.

Section I-12: Prior Relationships

Addiction Professionals shall recognize the inherent risks and benefits of accepting as a client someone with whom they had a casual, distant, or past relationship. Before engaging in such a

counseling relationship, the provider must obtain consultation and supervision and document the recommendations. The burden rests on the provider to ensure that their judgment is not impaired and that exploitation does not occur.

Section I-23: Sexual Relationships

Addiction Professionals shall not engage in any form of sexual or romantic relationship with any current or former client, nor shall they accept as a client anyone with whom they have

engaged in a romantic, sexual, social, or familial relationship. This prohibition applies to both in-person and electronic interactions or relationships. Addiction Professionals are also prohibited from counseling friends or family members.

Maintaining clear professional boundaries is essential to client safety, ethical practice, and public trust in our profession. We urge all practitioners to review these sections carefully, seek supervision when boundary issues arise, and prioritize the welfare of those we serve.

Thank you for your continued commitment to ethical and professional practice.

Sincerely,

IBADCC

WOULD YOU LIKE TO HELP?

We are still looking to fill board positions in Regions 1 and 6 as well as two Member at Large positions. If you are interested in helping support the certified professionals in your area while

providing valuable feedback on ways we can continue to grow and prosper, please reach out to us. We look forward to hearing from you!!

Enjoy the Holiday Season

“Holidays are about time—time to laugh, time to love, and time to simply be.” — Unknown

The holiday season is the perfect time to slow down and recharge. After a busy year, give yourself permission to take a break, enjoy the little moments, and spend time with the people who matter most. Whether it’s cozying up with a good book, watching your favorite holiday movies, or simply savoring a quiet cup of coffee, make space for the things that bring you joy.

Remember, relaxation isn’t just a luxury—it’s essential. Use this time to reflect on the year, celebrate your accomplishments, and step into the new year feeling refreshed and ready. Whatever your plans look like, we hope they’re filled with laughter, peace, and plenty of well-

deserved rest.

Recertification Reminder

Don’t forget your certification dates! A lot has changed over the years, including how we are able to get our CE hours. Most providers are now offering virtual, real-time classes that count towards in-person training hours. Don’t forget to check out the list of approved CE providers under the Resources tab on our website.

How to Contact IBADCC

If you have questions on the recommendations or resources included in this email, or if you have specific questions not addressed here, please feel free to contact us! The best way to contact the administrative office of the IBADCC is to send an email to ibadcc@ibadcc.org. Our inbox is checked daily. You can also give us a call at 208-444-8282.