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Addiction Counseling Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Wellpath

Substance Use Disorder Counselor

Merced, CA · On-site

$23.75 - $32/hr

Licensed/Certified in an addiction counseling specialty, such as: * Substance Use Disorder Certified Counselor II, III (SUDCC-II, II) * Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor II, III (CADC-II, III) * ...

Nursing Voyage, Inc.

Lead Social Worker

Torrance, CA

$96K - $136K/yr

Facilitate addiction counseling sessions for individuals struggling with substance use disorders. * Support seniors in community care settings, addressing their unique physical and emotional needs.

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All JobsAddiction Counseling JobsAddiction Counseling Jobs in California

Addiction Counseling information

See California salary details

$36.5K

$52.3K

$69.6K

How much do addiction counseling jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for addiction counseling in California is $52,304.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,400.00 and $55,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How do addiction counselors typically collaborate with other healthcare professionals to support client recovery?

Addiction counselors often work closely with a multidisciplinary team, including doctors, psychiatrists, social workers, and case managers, to provide comprehensive care for clients. This collaboration ensures that clients receive support for both their substance use issues and any co-occurring mental or physical health concerns. Regular team meetings, shared treatment plans, and coordinated referrals are common practices. Effective communication and teamwork are essential, as they help create a unified approach to each client's recovery journey.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an addiction counselor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Addiction Counselor, you need a background in psychology or social work, specialized training in substance abuse counseling, and often state licensure or certification. Familiarity with assessment tools, electronic health records, and evidence-based therapy methods like CBT or motivational interviewing is typically required. Compassion, active listening, and strong interpersonal skills help build trust and motivate clients through recovery. These skills and qualifications are essential for providing effective support, ensuring ethical practice, and facilitating positive outcomes for individuals struggling with addiction.

What is the difference between Addiction Counseling vs Substance Abuse Counseling?

AspectAddiction CounselingSubstance Abuse Counseling
CredentialsOften requires certification such as Certified Addiction Counselor (CAC)Similar certifications, often CAC or Licensed Substance Abuse Counselor
Work EnvironmentClinics, rehab centers, outpatient programsRehab facilities, outpatient clinics, community health centers
Industry UsageUsed interchangeably in many settings, focus on addiction recoveryFocuses specifically on substance abuse issues, often used in treatment programs

Both Addiction Counseling and Substance Abuse Counseling involve helping individuals overcome addiction and substance-related issues. While they share similar credentials and work environments, Addiction Counseling often emphasizes a broader approach to addiction recovery, whereas Substance Abuse Counseling specifically targets substance-related problems. The terms are frequently used interchangeably, but understanding their nuances can help in choosing the right career or treatment path.

What is addiction counseling?

Addiction counseling is a professional service that helps individuals struggling with substance abuse or behavioral addictions. Counselors work with clients to understand the root causes of their addiction, develop coping strategies, and create personalized treatment plans. They often use various therapeutic approaches such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, motivational interviewing, and group counseling. The goal of addiction counseling is to support clients in achieving and maintaining recovery, improving their mental health, and rebuilding their lives.
What are the most commonly searched types of Addiction Counseling jobs in California? The most popular types of Addiction Counseling jobs in California are:
What are popular job titles related to Addiction Counseling jobs in California? For Addiction Counseling jobs in California, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Addiction Counseling jobs in California look for? The top searched job categories for Addiction Counseling jobs in California are:
What cities in California are hiring for Addiction Counseling jobs? Cities in California with the most Addiction Counseling job openings:
Addiction Counseling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Addiction Counseling job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 66% Full Time, 28% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,304 per year, or $25.1 per hour.

Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Counselor

New Dawn Treatment Centers

Auburn, CA • On-site

$23.50 - $31.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago

Job description

Salary:

Some weekends will be required.


Company Overview

New Dawn Treatment Center has been a cornerstone of mental health and addiction treatment in Sacramento, CA for over 30 years. Our mission is to provide evidence-based treatment with a person-centered approach, ensuring every client experiences transformative care.


Summary

We are seeking a dedicated SUD Counselor to join our team at New Dawn Treatment Center. In this pivotal role, you will contribute to our mission by providing compassionate support and effective therapeutic interventions to individuals seeking recovery. Your expertise will play a vital role in enhancing the lives of those we serve.


Responsibilities

  • Provide individual and group counseling sessions to clients.
  • Conduct assessments and develop personalized treatment plans.
  • Utilize evidence-based therapeutic techniques such as motivational interviewing and cognitive behavioral therapy.
  • Support clients through crisis intervention and management.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to ensure comprehensive care.
  • Maintain accurate documentation in compliance with HIPAA regulations.
  • Facilitate family involvement in the treatment process when appropriate.
  • Stay current with best practices in mental health and addiction counseling.


Qualifications

  • Valid state licensure as a SUD Counselor or equivalent certification.
  • Strong experience in psychotherapy and addiction counseling.
  • Knowledge of crisis intervention techniques and mental health disorders.
  • Excellent communication skills and ability to work collaboratively.
  • Experience with group therapy facilitation is preferred.
  • Familiarity with electronic medical records systems is a plus.
  • Compassionate approach towards client care.


Call-To-Action

If you are passionate about making a difference in the lives of individuals on their journey to recovery, we invite you to apply and become part of our dedicated team at New Dawn Treatment Center!