The definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter unless the context clearly states otherwise:

(1) "ASAM criteria" means admission, continued service, and discharge criteria for the treatment of substance use disorders as published by the American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM).

(2) "Co-occurring disorder specialist" means an individual possessing an enhancement granted by the department under chapter 18.205 RCW and this chapter that certifies the individual to provide substance use disorder counseling subject to the practice limitations under RCW 18.205.105.

To receive a co-occurring disorder specialist enhancement, the applicant must submit to the department:

(1) A completed application;

(2) Verification of meeting the underlying licensure requirements in RCW 18.205.105(1);

(3) Verification of completing the training, exam, and experience requirements in RCW 18.205.105(5); and

(4) The fee according to WAC 246-804-990.

(1) A co-occurring disorder specialist must follow ASAM criteria in the treatment of patients according to RCW 18.205.105 and this section.

(2) Clients must be assessed using ASAM criteria dimensions.

(3) If a client is assessed at a 2.1 or higher level of care according to ASAM criteria, the enhancement holder must make a reasonable effort to refer the client to the appropriate care setting as indicated by the enhancement holder's ASAM level of care decision.

(4) If an enhancement holder is unable to refer a client to the appropriate level of care based on ASAM criteria, then enhancement holder must substantiate the level of care or type of service chosen in the clinical record.

A co-occurring disorder specialist enhancement, once obtained, does not require renewal. The following nonrefundable fees for a co-occurring enhancement will be charged: