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Addiction Counseling Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

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Outpatient Therapist

Virginia Beach, VA ยท On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Provide counseling services for clients experiencing mental health disorders, addiction, gender-related concerns, and psychosocial stressors * Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential clinical ...

Counselor

Chester, VA ยท On-site

... counseling, and support to assist clients in their recovery from addictions, such as alcoholism, drug addiction, or mental health disorders, assists with modifying problem behaviors; may also provide ...

Be Seen First

Outpatient Therapist

Virginia Beach, VA ยท On-site

$35 - $45/hr

Provide counseling services for clients experiencing mental health disorders, addiction, gender-related concerns, and psychosocial stressors * Maintain accurate, timely, and confidential clinical ...

$20.50 - $27.50/hr

... counseling, and support to assist clients in their recovery from addictions, such as alcoholism, drug addiction, or mental health disorders, assists with modifying problem behaviors; may also provide ...

... addiction, or mental health disorders, assists with modifying problem behaviors; may also provide counseling services to families of clients. Roles and Responsibilities: ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

... counseling, and support to assist clients in their recovery from addictions, such as alcoholism, drug addiction, or mental health disorders, assists with modifying problem behaviors; may also provide ...

... counseling, and support to assist clients in their recovery from addictions, such as alcoholism, drug addiction, or mental health disorders, assists with modifying problem behaviors; may also provide ...

... counseling, and support to assist clients in their recovery from addictions, such as alcoholism, drug addiction, or mental health disorders, assists with modifying problem behaviors; may also provide ...

Showing results 21-40

Addiction Counseling information

See Virginia salary details

$36.7K

$52.5K

$69.9K

How much do addiction counseling jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for addiction counseling in Virginia is $52,544.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,600.00 and $55,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

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.

Is addiction counseling a good career?

Addiction counseling is a rewarding career that involves helping individuals recover from substance use disorders. It typically requires relevant education, certification, and strong interpersonal skills, with job growth driven by increased awareness of mental health and addiction issues. The role often involves working in clinical or community settings and may require ongoing training and licensure.

What can you do with an addiction counseling degree?

An addiction counseling degree prepares individuals to work as addiction counselors, providing support and treatment to clients with substance use disorders. Graduates can work in outpatient clinics, rehabilitation centers, hospitals, or community organizations, often requiring certification or licensure depending on the region. The role involves counseling, developing treatment plans, and utilizing skills in mental health and addiction recovery.

Where do addiction counselors make the most money?

Addiction counselors tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for mental health services. Salaries are also influenced by experience, certifications, and working in private practices or specialized treatment centers. Typically, urban areas and states with more comprehensive healthcare funding offer higher compensation for addiction counseling roles.

What are the most commonly searched types of Addiction Counseling jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Addiction Counseling jobs in Virginia are:

What job categories do people searching Addiction Counseling jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Addiction Counseling jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Addiction Counseling jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Addiction Counseling job openings:

Infographic showing various Addiction Counseling job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 70% Full Time, 27% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,544 per year, or $25.3 per hour.

Addiction Treatment Counselor

Mental Health Pros by VABODE

Richmond, VA โ€ข On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Re-posted yesterday


Job description

Program Type: ASAM Level 3.1 Clinically Managed Low-Intensity Residential Services
Population Served: Adult Females Experiencing Substance Use Disorders and Co-Occurring Behavioral Health Conditions
Location: Richmond Metro Area
Schedule: Full-Time
Reports To: Clinical Supervisor/Program Director
Position Summary
The Licensed Mental Health Professional (LMHP)/Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) provides comprehensive clinical services within a Virginia DBHDS-licensed ASAM Level 3.1 Clinically Managed Low-Intensity Residential Treatment program serving adult females with substance use disorders, co-occurring mental health disorders, trauma histories, and complex psychosocial needs.
The clinician is responsible for providing assessment, treatment planning, group therapy, case coordination, crisis intervention, and recovery-focused services consistent with ASAM Criteria, Virginia DBHDS regulations, Medicaid documentation standards (when applicable), agency policies, and evidence-based behavioral health practices.
The LMHP/CSAC promotes a safe, structured, trauma-informed, and recovery-oriented environment while supporting clients in developing the skills necessary to achieve and maintain long-term recovery and successful community integration.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Clinical Assessment and Treatment Planning
  • Complete comprehensive behavioral health assessments, substance use assessments, and clinical screenings to identify client needs and appropriate level of care.
  • Complete and utilize ASAM Criteria assessments to support placement, continued stay, treatment planning, and discharge recommendations.
  • Develop individualized, measurable, person-centered treatment plans that address:
    • Substance use disorder needs
    • Mental health symptoms
    • Recovery supports
    • Housing stability
    • Employment/education goals
    • Legal and family concerns
    • Independent living skills
  • Participate in treatment plan reviews and update interventions based on client progress and changing needs.
Facilitate therapeutic and psychoeducational groups addressing:
    • Substance use recovery
    • Relapse prevention
    • Coping skills
    • Emotional regulation
    • Trauma and recovery
    • Healthy relationships
    • Life skills development
    • Community reintegration
  • Provide supportive counseling and crisis intervention within the scope of practice.
  • Maintain a therapeutic environment that promotes safety, accountability, dignity, and recovery.
Minimum Qualifications
LMHP Candidate:
  • Current Virginia Licensed Mental Health Professional credential, including:
    • LPC
    • LCSW
    • LMFT
    • Licensed Psychologist
  • Experience providing behavioral health treatment to adults with co-occurring disorders preferred.
CSAC Candidate:
  • Current Virginia Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) credential or eligible for certification through the Virginia Board of Counseling.
  • Knowledge of substance use disorders, recovery principles, and ASAM Criteria.
  • Experience providing substance use counseling services preferred.
  • Ability to provide clinical documentation consistent with DBHDS standards.

Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Knowledge of addiction treatment principles and recovery models.
  • Understanding of ASAM placement criteria and continued stay requirements.
  • Strong clinical assessment and treatment planning skills.
  • Ability to manage crisis situations professionally.
  • Ability to establish therapeutic relationships while maintaining boundaries.
  • Strong written documentation and communication skills.
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment.

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement
SMARTS Recovery by VABODE is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and maintaining a workplace that values diversity, respect, dignity, and inclusion. Employment decisions are made without regard to protected characteristics in accordance with applicable federal and Virginia laws.