A paradigm shift in counselor preparation is underway. This change is driven by a number of forces, as highlighted in this article, which are moving chemical dependency counselor preparation toward more formal educational approaches and consequently toward more professionalism. There are important differences between occupational training and more professional educational approaches to chemical dependency counselor preparation, which include overall approach, goals, values, philosophy, desired outcomes and curriculum. As this movement continues it will result in a clearer distinction between professionals and paraprofessionals within the chemical dependency counseling field.