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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 Aug 15, 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 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 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.

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 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.

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 licensure.

What degree is best for an addiction counselor?

The most common degree for an addiction counselor is a bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, counseling, or a related field. Many positions also require or prefer a master's degree in counseling, psychology, or social work, along with relevant certification or licensure. These qualifications help develop the skills needed to assess, treat, and support individuals with addiction issues.

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, adding two more years of education. Overall, it can take approximately 4 to 6 years to become fully qualified as an addiction counselor.

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, 72% Full Time, 21% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Summer. 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.

Substance Used Disorder Counselor | $5,000 Sign On Bonus

Kolmac Integrated Behavioral Health

Newark, DE • On-site

$25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Posted 10 days ago


Job description

Substance Use Disorder Counselor - $5,000 Sign On Bonus

Kolmac Integrated Behavioral Health & Concerted Care Group (CCG)

Elkton, MD | On-Site Monday - Friday 7am - 3pm | $25–$30/hr

Your Work Will Change Lives. So Will Ours.

Since 1973, Kolmac Integrated Behavioral Health and Concerted Care Group (CCG) have helped people across Maryland, DC, Virginia, Delaware, and Pennsylvania rebuild their lives after addiction. We're growing fast — and we're looking for a counselor in Cumberland who wants to grow with us.

This isn't a job where you'll feel like a cog in the machine. You'll carry a caseload that lets you actually know your patients. You'll work alongside a tight-knit, interdisciplinary team that has your back. And you'll get real support to keep developing your clinical skills — not just a paycheck, but a career.

If you're an experienced, licensed addiction counselor who wants to do meaningful work without burning out, keep reading.

A Day in This Role

You'll facilitate group and individual sessions across our IOP and OP programs, build real treatment alliances with patients, and work alongside a team that treats co-occurring psychiatric needs as seriously as substance use. No two days look exactly the same — but every day, you'll see the direct impact of your work.

What You'll Do
  • Build collaborative, individualized treatment alliances that flex with each patient's changing needs
  • Facilitate addiction treatment groups at both the IOP and OP levels of care
  • Design and deliver addiction/recovery education presentations
  • Lead case management sessions, including assessments, collaborative goal-setting, and discharge planning
  • Coordinate care with referral sources, family members, and other providers
  • Partner with the treatment team to address patients' co-occurring psychiatric needs
  • Apply Motivational Interviewing, CBT, and trauma-informed approaches in daily practice
  • Complete evaluations using DSM-V and ASAM level-of-care criteria
  • Maintain timely, accurate documentation that meets state and CARF standards
  • Rotate on-call coverage for patients in crisis outside business hours (a few weeks per year)
  • Bring energy and a "teacher's spirit" to recovery education, in and out of session

Schedule: Monday–Friday, 7am - 3pm, with occasional Saturdays. Expect to spend up to 55% of your week in direct patient care.

What You Bring
  • Active Maryland credential: ADT, CSC-AD, or CAC-AD (required)
  • Minimum 2 years of experience in the SUD field (group treatment experience a plus)
  • Strong clinical, verbal, and written communication skills
  • Comfort working within an electronic medical record system
  • Familiarity with diverse recovery modalities: 12-Step, SMART Recovery, Women for Sobriety, Recovery Dharma, Harm Reduction, and more
  • A flexible, creative, team-oriented approach to a growing program
Why Counselors Choose Kolmac + CCG
  • Competitive pay: $25–$30/hour, based on location, experience, licensure, and skill level
  • Clinical supervision — keep growing toward advanced licensure
  • Full benefits: medical, dental, and vision coverage
  • Life insurance and 401(k) for long-term security
  • Tuition reimbursement and student loan repayment support
  • Paid professional development time to keep sharpening your clinical skills
  • Paid vacation time because burnout doesn't serve anyone
  • A genuine, lived culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion — for patients and staff alike
  • A program that's actively expanding, with real room to grow your career
Ready to Bring Your Skills Where They're Needed Most?

If you're a Maryland-licensed addiction counselor (ADT, CSC-AD, or CAC-AD) with at least 2 years in the SUD field, we want to hear from you. Apply today and join a team that's been changing lives in the Mid-Atlantic since 1973.

Kolmac Integrated Behavioral Health and Concerted Care Group (CCG) are equal opportunity employers committed to building a diverse and inclusive team.

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