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Addiction Counselor Intern Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

During practicum, interns will have the opportunity to learn more about addiction and recovery ... CSWE) Counseling, Clinical Psychology, and Social Work Programs. If you'd like to apply, please ...

Addiction Counselor Intern information

See Houston, TX salary details

$31K

$51.8K

$67.8K

How much do addiction counselor intern jobs pay per year?

As of May 28, 2026, the average yearly pay for addiction counselor intern in Houston, TX is $51,784.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,500.00 and $58,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Addiction Counselor Intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Addiction Counselor Intern, you need foundational knowledge in substance abuse counseling, active listening, and a relevant academic background in psychology or social work. Familiarity with case management software, basic clinical documentation, and pursuing or holding certifications like CADC or similar are common requirements. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and cultural sensitivity help build rapport with clients and support effective treatment. These skills and qualifications are essential for delivering compassionate care, maintaining client trust, and supporting recovery in a clinical or community setting.

What types of supervision and support can an Addiction Counselor Intern expect during their internship?

As an Addiction Counselor Intern, you will typically work under the direct supervision of a licensed counselor or clinical supervisor, who provides regular feedback and guidance. Most programs offer structured supervision sessions, case discussions, and opportunities to observe experienced professionals, ensuring you gain practical skills while maintaining client safety. You’ll also collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, including social workers, nurses, and other counselors, which fosters a supportive learning environment and helps you build a strong professional network.

What does an Addiction Counselor Intern do?

An Addiction Counselor Intern assists licensed addiction counselors in providing support and guidance to individuals struggling with substance abuse or addiction. Their responsibilities often include conducting intake interviews, helping with group and individual counseling sessions, maintaining client records, and learning to develop treatment plans under supervision. Interns gain hands-on experience while completing required hours for certification or licensure, and they work closely with experienced professionals to develop essential counseling skills and ethical practices.

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

AspectAddiction Counselor InternSubstance Abuse Counselor
Required CredentialsOften pursuing relevant certifications or degrees, supervised internshipTypically requires certification or licensure, such as CADC or LPC
Work EnvironmentInternship settings, clinics, rehab centers under supervisionFull-time roles in clinics, rehab centers, or healthcare facilities
Employer & Industry UsageEducational and training phase, often part of a licensing pathwayLicensed professionals providing treatment and counseling services

The main difference is that an Addiction Counselor Intern is in a training or supervised internship phase, often working towards certification, while a Substance Abuse Counselor is a licensed professional providing direct treatment. Interns gain experience and mentorship, whereas licensed counselors have full responsibilities for client care.

What are the most commonly searched types of Addiction Counselor jobs in Houston, TX? The most popular types of Addiction Counselor jobs in Houston, TX are:
What job categories do people searching Addiction Counselor Intern jobs in Houston, TX look for? The top searched job categories for Addiction Counselor Intern jobs in Houston, TX are:
Substance Abuse Counselor I

$19 - $21/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago


Management & Training Corporation rating

5.7

Company rating: 5.7 out of 10

Based on 32 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

29th of 40 rated prisons


Job description

Substance Abuse Counselor I (Pay Dependent on Licensure): $19.00 - $21.00 

Schedule: Full-Time, Monday – Friday, 8-hour shifts

Benefit package includes:

  • Medical, vision, and prescription drug benefits
  • Dental benefits
  • Life insurance
  • Accidental death and dismemberment insurance
  • Short-term and long-term disability benefits
  • 401(k) retirement plan
  • Employee assistance program
  • Paid time off (PTO)
  • Paid holidays
  • Bereavement leave
  • Civic duty and military leave

Impact lives with Management & Training Corporation (MTC)! At the Stringfellow Unit in Rosharon, Texas, our foundation is based upon the philosophies of caring about others, giving back, and making a social impact. We provide a safe and secure working environment for our staff while helping an at-risk population receive the treatment necessary for success on their road back to a healthy, productive life.

Essential Duties:

  1. Provides substance abuse counseling and recovery skills training; participates in offender orientation, educational and individual and process counseling groups in compliance with program standards, guidelines, policies, and procedures.
  2. Maintain a Therapeutic Community (TC) within the facility working closely with correctional staff to create a living environment that is peer driven.
  3. Interviews, screens, and evaluates offenders for potential program participation.
  4. Provides a comprehensive evaluation from a battery of valid measurement tools to assess the recovery needs and the re-offense risk of offenders.
  5. Participates in the Individual Treatment Plan based on the severity and characteristics of the offender as determined by the comprehensive assessment, review of collateral information, and the Clinical interview.
  6. Maintains offender records and other records regarding services provided to include workload statistics; and compiles data and submits reports and related documentation as appropriate. 
  7. Provides liaison to participants of training programs, workshops, and seminars.
  8. Implements follow-up and after care plans for offenders that participate in the program prior to their release; and disseminates information on community resources for offender placement in follow-up treatment.

Qualifications:

  • Graduation from an accredited high school or equivalent (GED) required.
  • Must have a current letter of registration as a Counselor Intern (LCDC-I) from the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) OR current valid certification as a Certified Criminal Justice Professional Applicant Status (CCJP-A) as approved by the Texas Certification Board of Addiction Professionals.
  • Select applicants must obtain the Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor (LCDC) license or the Certified Criminal Justice Professional (CCJP) certification within five (5) years from the date of their registration as a Counselor Intern or CCJP-A.
  • Must sign a Credential Contingency Agreement (CCA) that will remain in effect only until the initially established expiration date. Failure to comply with the CCA will result in separation from employment. CCAs will not be extended or renewed as a result of an employee’s separation from employment or acceptance of another position.
  • Valid driver’s license in the state of Texas with an acceptable driving record, unless waived by management.
  • Must successfully complete Correctional Awareness Training (CAT) as well as TDCJ approved annual in-service training requirements and background checks.
  • Must maintain Counselor Intern status or CCJP-A certification for continued employment.

Management & Training Corporation (MTC) is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, age, religion, sex, disabled status, veteran status, genetic information, national origin, or any other category protected by federal law. MTC participates in E-Verify. We strive to provide reasonable accommodation for qualified individuals with disabilities, including disabled veterans, in our job application and hiring process. If you are interested in employment opportunities with Management & Training Corporation and need assistance, please contact our staffing department through customersupport@mtctrains.com or 801-693-2888.


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