Certification Board

The Certification Board governs the certification process for MAAP as a proud member of the International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium

The Mississippi Association of Addiction Professionals (MAAP), a non-profit organization established in 1983, certifies addiction professionals in Mississippi.

Peer evaluation is highly valued in this field, reflecting the standards and practices relevant to the work setting and training. To manage this responsibility, MAAP maintains a Certification Examining Board that processes applications, administers examinations, and develops uniform state guidelines for certified professionals. The Board meets as needed, but at least quarterly. It is the sole recognized Certification Examining Board for professionals in alcohol and drug abuse, clinical supervision, prevention, and criminal justice.

MAAP certification is voluntary. Agencies or employers may value and recognize this certification at their discretion. Acceptance of this credential depends on the demonstrated competence, ethics, and integrity of MAAP certificate holders and their voluntary acknowledgment of MAAP’s standards.

Certification emphasizes competence based on practical knowledge and experience in addiction treatment rather than academic achievement alone. Its authority comes from professionals who commit to developing competence standards. Certification is available to anyone who meets or exceeds the established standards for any category in which it is offered.

CERTIFICATION BOARD MEMBERS

  • Chair: Ashley Barksdale, LCSW, LICSW, CFLE, CADC-II, PMH-C – Barksdale Missions, LLC
    • Katherine Lewis, ICADC-II, CCJA - The Estate at River Bend Residential Treatment Center, Lucedale, MS
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  • Ex-officio Members:
    • President: Shuana Fletcher, LCSW, MAC, ICAADC, SAP
    • Immediate Past-President: Russell 'Lin' Hogan, PsyD. ICAADC, LPC, SAP - Weems Community Mental Health Center, Meridian, MS

  • Member Emeritus:

    • Robert F. Tavlin, ICAADC - Retired,  Madison, MS

    • Albert Stallworth, Sr., M.Ed., ICAADC - Retired, Gautier, MS

  • In Memoriam: Katherine Turcotte, ICADC, ICCS 
    It is with deep sadness that we remember Katherine Turcotte, a dedicated leader and passionate advocate in the addiction counseling community. As a co-founder of MAAP, past president for several terms, and a Member Emeritus of both the Board of Directors and the Certification Board, Katherine’s impact has been profound. Her tireless work and commitment to improving the lives of those struggling with addiction have left a lasting legacy. Katherine’s guidance, wisdom, and friendship will be sorely missed by all who knew her.
  • In Memoriam: Shane Garrard, ICADC-II, ICCS
    We mourn the passing of Shane Garrard, a valued instructor, leader, and friend. Shane’s contributions to the addiction counseling profession were immeasurable. As a Member Emeritus of both the Board of Directors and the Certification Board, his dedication to the field and the individuals he served was unwavering. Shane was a respected professional and a kind and supportive colleague, always ready with a word of encouragement or guidance. His absence leaves a void that will be felt by many.