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Addiction Counselor Assistant Jobs in Alberta (NOW HIRING)

Calgary Alpha House Society

Recovery Coach

Calgary, AB · On-site

CA$24.95/hr

Providing educational presentations to clients on topics related to health, addictions and ... Ensure compliance with regulatory standards (MSDS, OH&S, WHMIS etc.) * Assist in the Shelter and ...

Calgary Alpha House Society

Outreach Worker

Calgary, AB · On-site

CA$24.95/hr

Outreach staff assist individuals in a variety of ways, therefore, independent thinking and ... Experience with crisis counseling and outreach for vulnerable populations * Knowledge of addictions ...

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Addiction Counselor Assistant information

See Alberta salary details

$9

$22

$38

How much do addiction counselor assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average hourly pay for addiction counselor assistant in Alberta is $22.81, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $15.62 and $24.76 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an addiction counselor assistant do?

An Addiction Counselor Assistant supports licensed addiction counselors in helping individuals overcome substance abuse and addiction issues. Their duties often include conducting intake interviews, assisting with group therapy sessions, maintaining client records, and providing administrative support. They also help clients access community resources and monitor their progress under the supervision of a certified counselor. This role is essential for ensuring clients receive consistent care and support as they work toward recovery.

What are some typical challenges addiction counselor assistants face when supporting clients in recovery?

Addiction Counselor Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing clients' resistance to treatment, handling emotional distress, and maintaining professional boundaries. They must be prepared to support clients through relapse or setbacks while fostering a nonjudgmental and encouraging environment. Additionally, they collaborate closely with licensed counselors and multidisciplinary teams to ensure clients receive comprehensive care, and need strong communication skills to coordinate effectively.

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

To thrive as an Addiction Counselor Assistant, you need a basic understanding of addiction counseling principles, active listening skills, and often a high school diploma or relevant certification. Familiarity with documentation systems, group facilitation tools, and sometimes CPR/First Aid certification are typically required. Compassion, patience, and strong interpersonal communication enable effective support for clients and collaboration with counselors. These skills and qualities ensure you can provide empathetic, reliable assistance that helps clients progress in their recovery journey.

What is the difference between Addiction Counselor Assistant vs Substance Abuse Counselor?

AspectAddiction Counselor AssistantSubstance Abuse Counselor
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some certificationsAssociate's or Bachelor's degree in counseling or related field; state licensure often required
Work EnvironmentRehab centers, clinics, outpatient facilitiesRehab centers, outpatient clinics, hospitals
Employer & Industry UsageEntry-level support role in addiction treatmentLicensed professional providing counseling and treatment plans

While both roles work in addiction treatment settings, Addiction Counselor Assistants typically support licensed counselors and require fewer credentials. Substance Abuse Counselors are licensed professionals who provide direct therapy and treatment planning. The roles differ mainly in responsibility level and required qualifications, but both contribute to addiction recovery efforts.

What are the most commonly searched types of Addiction Counselor jobs in Alberta?

The most popular types of Addiction Counselor jobs in Alberta are:

What cities in Alberta are hiring for Addiction Counselor Assistant jobs?

Cities in Alberta with the most Addiction Counselor Assistant job openings:

Addiction Counselor Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Addiction Counselor Assistant job openings in Alberta as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $47,451 per year, or $22.8 per hour.

Mental Health & Addictions Counsellor - 020-2026

Fort Mcmurray, AB

Fort McKay First Nation
See more jobs at Fort McKay First Nationexternal

Full-time

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Mental Health and Addictions Counsellor will provide quality, client focused, recovery based, and culturally appropriate counselling services and support for community members, families and groups within the Fort McKay community. The Counsellor will provide intake, assessments, treatment plans, case management, crisis intervention, education and referral services for clients and their families. The work performed is specialized and involves applying psychological knowledge and theories to a variety of situations. Often the work is performed in multi-disciplinary teams to develop and implement care or treatment or behaviour support plans. Counsellors require active registration with the applicable Alberta regulatory college or professional association. This position is a one-year leave replacement.


KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Work withat risk populations including those with complex needs, mental health challenges, and substance use disorders; by providing addictions, life skills and trauma counselling.
  • Utilize a variety of psychosocial interventions and treatment modalities (individual, family, group) to children and adolescents experiencing significant mental health difficulties.
  • Complete intakes, assessments and make decisions around treatment goals with the client.
  • Review, evaluate, and document client progress and make changes to treatment plan, as necessary.
  • Provide pre-care and after-care planning and support for clients attending Addictions treatment.
  • Identify and develop safety plans for high-risk clients, manage and support clients to receive emergency services if necessary.
  • Establish care plans, goal setting and identify needs as they pertain to holistic wellness.
  • Work as a part of an interdisciplinary team of professionals to case manage, discuss appropriate therapeutic strategies and share information as required.
  • Provide one on one counselling and run groups that support enhanced person-centered wellness, inclusive of sober living, relapse prevention, living skills, and other supportive measures.
  • Work with other members of the Mental Health and Addictions team in offering services and support for clients.
  • Work with Elders to support the cultural and spiritual needs of the clients, as well as seek out and encourage cultural activities that will support sobriety and overall wellness.
  • Build relationships with services in the Wood Buffalo region to assist clients with additional services.
  • Provide consistent communication with the direct supervisor.
  • Provide monthly statistical data to the direct supervisor.
  • Maintain records and files in a clinical and professional manner.
  • Perform other related duties as required.


KEY REQUIREMENTS

  • Bachelor's degree in psychology, addictions, health promotion, social work or related human services field is required.
  • Active registration with the applicable regulatory college or professional association is required.
  • Three (3) years of related experience in working with at risk groups and supporting healthy living and life skills.
  • Three (3) years of experience in addictions services and counselling.
  • Experience working in a First Nations community setting including knowledge of First Nations culture, traditions and values considered an asset
  • Valid class 5 Driver's License & Clean Driver's Abstract
  • A clean criminal record and vulnerable sector check is required
  • Successful candidate will be required to live in (or relocate to) Fort McMurray, Alberta


WHY APPLY?
At Fort McKay, we value the dedication of our employees, which is why we give so much in return. In addition to Competitive Pay, we also offer the following;

  • A healthy work-life balance with an on-site fitness centre
  • Transportation to and from work
  • The opportunity to work with a community that is committed to protecting its traditional lands
  • Shift: Monday - Thursday - 8:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. Friday - 8:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.


HOW TO APPLY:
ONLINE:https://fortmckayfirstnation2.applytojob.com/apply
You can also check us out on social media -> Facebook & LinkedIn
Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Please ensure you indicate the Competition #020-2026


*Preference will be given to qualified applicants of Indigenous ancestry in any hiring decision, please declare your Indigenous status in your application.

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