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Addiction Counselor Jobs in Delaware (NOW HIRING)

Certification in addiction counseling a plus! MUST HAVE: * * Strong assessment, counseling, and case management abilities * Excellent communication and relationship-building skills * Commitment to ...

Certification in addiction counseling a plus! MUST HAVE: * * Strong assessment, counseling, and case management abilities * Excellent communication and relationship-building skills * Commitment to ...

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Addiction Counselor information

See Delaware salary details

$32.5K

$54.3K

$71.1K

How much do addiction counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for addiction counselor in Delaware is $54,273.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,500.00 and $61,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an addiction counselor do?

An addiction counselor helps individuals who are struggling with substance abuse or behavioral addictions. They assess clients’ needs, develop treatment plans, provide emotional support, and lead individual or group therapy sessions. Addiction counselors also educate clients and their families about addiction, help them develop coping strategies, and connect them with additional resources for recovery. Their goal is to support clients on their journey to achieve and maintain sobriety.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an addiction counselor?

To thrive as an Addiction Counselor, you need a background in psychology or counseling, state licensure or certification, and specialized training in substance abuse treatment. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), motivational interviewing techniques, and standardized assessment tools is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and cultural sensitivity are crucial for building trust and effectively supporting clients through recovery. These skills and qualifications are essential to provide ethical, evidence-based care and to foster lasting positive change in clients' lives.

What are some common challenges addiction counselors face when working with clients, and how can they effectively address them?

Addiction Counselors often encounter challenges such as client relapse, resistance to treatment, and managing clients with co-occurring mental health disorders. Building a trusting relationship is crucial, as is maintaining patience and empathy throughout the recovery process. Counselors frequently collaborate with healthcare professionals, social workers, and families to create a supportive network for clients. Continuous professional development and self-care are important for managing the emotional demands of the role.

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

AspectAddiction CounselorSubstance Abuse Counselor
CredentialsOften requires certification or licensure (e.g., CADC, LPC)Similar certifications, often overlapping with addiction counseling
Work EnvironmentClinics, rehab centers, hospitals, community agenciesRehab centers, outpatient clinics, community health settings
Industry UsageCommonly used term for professionals helping with addiction issuesOften used interchangeably, but sometimes more focused on substance-specific treatment

Both Addiction Counselors and Substance Abuse Counselors work in similar environments and often hold comparable certifications. The main difference lies in terminology; Addiction Counselors typically have a broader focus on various addictive behaviors, while Substance Abuse Counselors may focus more specifically on substance-related issues. However, in practice, these roles are often interchangeable, and the choice of title depends on employer preference or certification specifics.

How many years does it take to be an addiction counselor?

Becoming an addiction counselor typically requires completing a bachelor's degree in a related field, which takes about four years, followed by obtaining relevant certifications or licenses that may require additional training or supervised experience. Some positions may also require a master's degree, which generally takes an additional two years to complete.

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 expected due to increasing awareness of addiction issues. The role often involves working in clinical or community settings and may require ongoing training and supervision.

What degree is best for an addiction counselor?

A bachelor's degree in addiction counseling, psychology, social work, or a related field is typically required for addiction counselor roles. Many employers prefer candidates with a master's degree and relevant certification, such as Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), to advance in the profession and provide specialized treatment.

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

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

Infographic showing various Addiction Counselor job openings in Delaware as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,273 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

$28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago


Brandywine Counseling & Community Services rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description

BCCS is seeking a Program Manager for our Criminal Justice programs!


Who are We:

Since 1985, Brandywine Counseling & Community Services, Inc. (BCCS) has been a trusted provider of outstanding substance abuse and behavioral health treatment. BCCS is a community organization that prides itself on helping members of our community recover with dignity. We enhance the quality of life by creatively providing Education, Advocacy, Prevention, Early Intervention, and Treatment Services. We promote hope and empowerment to persons and families touched by mental illness, substance abuse, HIV and multiple occurring diagnoses, and their related challenges.


Summary of Position 

The Program Manager provides leadership and oversight for the day-to-day operations of Criminal Justice Programs statewide and is responsible for the overall administration and coordination of services across all counties. This position ensures that all Criminal Justice programs operate in compliance with contractual obligations, agency policies, operational standards, and state regulations while maintaining efficient and effective service delivery.


What You'll Do at Brandywine Counseling:

  • Direct and oversee the day-to-day operations of statewide Criminal Justice Programs.
  • Ensure DUI Referral, Court-Ordered DUI, and Drug Diversion programs meet all operational, contractual, and regulatory requirements.
  • Conduct quality assurance activities, including monthly chart audits, to monitor compliance, documentation standards, and program effectiveness.
  • Supervise, mentor, evaluate, hire, and, when necessary, discipline or terminate staff.
  • Lead staff development through performance management, training, coaching, and regular staff meetings.
  • Foster a positive and professional workplace culture that promotes teamwork, employee engagement, accountability, and continuous improvement.
  • Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency, reduce overhead costs, and enhance service delivery.
  • Address client concerns and complaints promptly and effectively to support high levels of client satisfaction.
  • Monitor facility operations, including safety, maintenance, security, appearance, and employee well-being.
  • Develop and maintain collaborative relationships with community partners, treatment providers, courts, state agencies, and other stakeholders.
  • Compile, analyze, and report program data and outcomes to support program evaluation, accountability, and continuous quality improvement.
  • Proactively identify problems and implement effective solutions to improve program performance.
  • Serve as a role model for professional conduct, ethical behavior, and organizational values, ensuring staff maintain the highest standards of professionalism and service excellence.


Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

  • Drug and alcohol treatment clinical practices 
  • Supervision practices and performance evaluations
  • Maintain compliance with contracts goals & objectives 
  • Mental health
  • Crisis intervention: responds to urgent or emergency situations in a way that minimizes trauma to the client and staff members and results in stabilization
  • Working knowledge of the criminal justice system and ability to maintain a positive professional working relationship with courts and department of probation.

Requirements

Qualifications for this position are:

  • REQUIRED: Bachelor's Degree in Social Work, Criminal Justice, Sociology, Addiction Counselor or a Related Field
  • Preferred: Master's Degree in Social Work, Criminal Justice, Sociology, Addiction Counselor or a Related Field
  • REQUIRED: CADC (Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor) or required within three months of hire if not CADC certified
  • Preferred: LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) or LCSW (Licensed Clinical Social Worker)
  • REQUIRED: Minimum of 5 Years Supervisory Experience - Treatment/Case Management 
  • Preferred: 3+ Years Supervisory Experience - Court Ordered Programs
  • REQUIRED: Valid Driver's License w/ 2 Points or Less. 
  • REQUIRED: Must Have Own Vehicle Available for Use - Statewide Travel Required


Pay:

  • Starting at $28 hour
  • Commensurate with experience, education, and certification/licensure!


Schedule:

  • Monday - Friday
  • From 7:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.


The compensation package for this position includes:

  • Group medical, dental, and vision coverage with low employee costs
  • 34 paid days off annually
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • A retirement plan with a company match of up to 4%!
  • Brandywine Counseling is a qualified employer for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)
  • No weekends!
  • Opportunity for advancement

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