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Addiction Counseling Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

... 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 ...

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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 19, 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 Recovery and Treatment Manager

Rockbridge Area Community Services

Lexington, VA

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

Addiction Recovery and Treatment Manager

Location: 241 Greenhouse Road, Lexington, VA
Employer: Rockbridge Area Community Services (RACS)

Position Overview:

The Addiction Recovery and Treatment (ARTS) Manager oversees the clinical and day-to-day operations of Rockbridge Area Community Services' comprehensive substance use disorder treatment and recovery continuum, including 3.1 Residential Treatment, Partial Hospitalization (PHP), Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP), Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), SUD Peer Services, and Outpatient Counseling.

This position provides direct supervision to clinical and program staff while ensuring services are evidence-based, person-centered, trauma-informed, and compliant with agency, state, and federal regulatory requirements. In addition to program leadership responsibilities, this position provides direct clinical services to individuals participating in Residential and Partial Hospitalization programs and collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to support recovery-oriented outcomes.

The ideal candidate is a Licensed Mental Health Professional (LPC, LCSW, LCP, LPP, LMFT, or equivalent) with experience treating individuals with substance use disorders and leading behavioral health programs through effective clinical oversight, staff supervision, and program administration.

Qualifications & Requirements

  • Master's degree in counseling, social work, psychology, human services, or a related behavioral health field required
  • Licensed Mental Health Professional (LPC, LCSW, LCP, LPP, LMFT, or equivalent) required
  • Prior supervisory, program development, or multi-site coordination experience is strongly preferred
  • Significant experience in substance use disorder treatment, preferably including work in more than one ASAM level of care
  • Valid Virginia Driver's License required

Preferred Skills & Experience:

  • Thorough knowledge of substance use disorder treatment principles, co-occurring disorders, relapse prevention, and ASAM criteria
  • Working knowledge of behavioral health documentation, and service authorization expectations
  • Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills; ability to analyze operational and clinical data
  • Ability to build effective working relationships across disciplines, programs, and community partners
  • Proficiency in electronic health records and Microsoft Office Suite
  • Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-stakes environment while maintaining a calm and professional approach

Why Join RACS?

At RACS, you will have the opportunity to make a direct and lasting impact on individuals and families in your community. We support our staff with meaningful benefits and a work environment that values collaboration, professionalism, and growth.

  • Competitive salary, commensurate with experience
  • Student loan repayment assistance and tuition reimbursement
  • Virginia state retirement plan
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance
  • Generous paid time off and holidays
  • Telework options where appropriate

Background Investigation Requirements: All applicants are subject to a background investigation. Investigations may include fingerprint checks (State Police); local agency checks; employment verification; verification of education (relevant to employment); and other checks based on the position.

Probationary Period: All persons that are newly hired, rehired, transferred, promoted, or demoted into a Rockbridge Area Community Services position must serve a new 6-month probationary period.

RACS is an EEO employer and is committed to supporting workforce diversity, equitable opportunities, and inclusivity. Reasonable accommodations are available upon request. RACS values our Veterans and encourages all to apply. AmeriCorps, Peace Corps, and other nation service alumni are also encouraged to apply.