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Addiction Counselor Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

This Addiction Counselor position will run a morning Intensive Outpatient Group for Adult clients with a primary Substance Use Disorder. Job Requirements: • Bachelor's degree in psychology ...

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Addiction Counselor information

See Iowa salary details

$30.5K

$50.9K

$66.7K

How much do addiction counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for addiction counselor in Iowa is $50,932.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $42,700.00 and $57,300.00 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 Iowa?

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

What are popular job titles related to Addiction Counselor jobs in Iowa?

For Addiction Counselor jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Addiction Counselor jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Addiction Counselor jobs in Iowa are:

What cities in Iowa are hiring for Addiction Counselor jobs?

Cities in Iowa with the most Addiction Counselor job openings:

Infographic showing various Addiction Counselor job openings in Iowa as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 96% In-person, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,932 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Addiction Counselor-OP IA

Rosecrance

Creston, IA • On-site

$27.77/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 11 days ago


Rosecrance rating

6.1

Company rating: 6.1 out of 10

Based on 22 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Become a champion of hope.
At Rosecrance, we've been leading the way in behavioral health services for over a century. Our team empowers individuals and families to overcome substance use and mental health challenges through compassionate care and evidence-based therapies. If you're ready to make a meaningful impact, we're ready to welcome you! We are looking for dedicated individuals to join our team and help deliver on our mission of hope and recovery.
Sign on bonus available! $6,000 for non-licensed $8,000 for 1st or 2nd level license
Position Purpose:
Participate as a team member in the delivery of substance-use disorder services to adult clients and their families. Facilitate the issues of recovery into client's daily living situations. Provide program services in an ethical, legal and moral manner within a safe and therapeutic environment, consistent with applicable regulatory and accreditation standards. This Addiction Counselor position will run a morning Intensive Outpatient Group for Adult clients with a primary Substance Use Disorder.
Job Requirements:
• Bachelor's degree in psychology, Counseling, Social Work, Addiction Studies or other related field, or
commensurate experience and training.
• Minimum tCADC or achieve and maintain licensure as a LBSW, LMSW, tLMHC, or other state or
national licensure that supersedes the tCADC within 90 days of hire or transfer.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Familiarity with electronic health record systems strongly preferred.
• Ability to accurately complete required documentation within prescribed time frames
• Skilled in conducting individual, family and group counseling
• Ability to present and coordinate lectures for clients, parents, staff or community resources
• Self-starter with ability to work independently
• Ability to work within a team
• Belief in the mission and vision of Rosecrance
Qualifications:
  • Excellent written and oral communication skills,
  • Computer proficiency required,
  • Ability to navigate and complete documentation in the electronic healthcare record,
  • Ability to accurately complete required documentation within the prescribed time frames
  • Skilled in conducting individual, family and group counseling,
  • Ability to present and coordinate lectures for clients, parents, staff or community resources,
  • Self-starter with ability to work independently,
  • Ability to work within a team,
  • Belief in the mission and vision of Rosecrance

Essential Responsibilities:
  • Work hours prescribed by leadership and any additional hours deemed necessary for the responsibilities assigned.
  • Conduct individual, group, and family counseling and educational sessions for clients and/or family members.
  • Complete client psychosocial and individualized treatment plan within required time frame.
  • Identify client clinical and case management needs and work to address those needs.
  • Educate client and client support members regarding all aspects of treatment, corresponding health issues and steps to recovery.
  • Undertake primary case management responsibilities for designated clients.
  • Ensure that documentation in client service record is maintained consistent with expectations defined by SUPR, TJC and Medicaid regulations.
  • Maintain communications with all staff (e.g. admissions, case management and discharge plans).
  • Assume on-call responsibilities per schedule or when designated.
  • Present workshops, lectures and training to clients, families, and staff and community groups.
  • Be familiar with court proceedings and available to make court appearances on behalf of Rosecrance clients.
  • Serve as a member of the team and participate in all team meetings and activities.
  • Exercise confidentiality in keeping with the Code of Conduct and with the framework of the law.
  • Deliver exceptional customer service consistently to every customer.

Schedule: Monday -Thursday 8:00am-6:30pm
Job Type: Full-time
Compensation & Rewards
Based on education, experience and credentials
  • Starting salary Bachelors: $24.44
  • Starting salary Master's: $27.77

Professional Certification (e.g., CADC, CRSS, or CPS): +$0.72/hour (equivalent of +$1,500 annualized)
Work Location: Rosecrance RJC Creston Campus - Creston , IA
Our Benefits:
Rosecrance values its employees and offers a comprehensive benefits package for you and your family:
  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance (multiple plan options to meet your needs)
  • 401(k) with employer match & discretionary contribution
  • Group Life Insurance, LTD and AD&D
  • Tuition assistance & licensure/certification reimbursement
  • Paid Time Off, sick time, bereavement leave
  • Referral program earning up to $1,000 per hire!
  • Wellness program, including an on-site gym at select facilities
  • Discounts at participating retailers
  • Daily pay available through UKG Wallet for financial flexibility

Who We Are
Rosecrance has been at the forefront of providing behavioral health services for over a century. Our mission is to empower individuals and families to overcome substance abuse and mental health challenges through evidence-based therapies and compassionate care. Join us in our mission to foster lasting recovery and transform lives.
We are committed to providing careers that make a difference in the lives of the people we serve and the people we employ. We do this through the work we do, our core mission and values, our employee resources, and especially through our purpose-driven community of opportunity and hope.
Our Health and Safety Commitment
We maintain a zero-tolerance drug-free environment, including marijuana, to prioritize safety for staff and clients. All candidates must pass an occupational health screening, ensuring a secure and healthy workplace.
Equal Employment Opportunity
Rosecrance is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in the workplace. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), national origin, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, or any other legally protected status. Our hiring decisions are based solely on qualifications, skills, and experience relevant to the requirements of the position.
Our Partnerships
  • AARP Employer Pledge Program
  • MSEP (Military Spouse Employment Partnership).

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.
For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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About Rosecrance

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Rosecrance is a private not-for-profit organization and nationally recognized leader in treating substance use and mental health disorders for children, adolescents, adults, and families. With nearly 60 locations in Illinois, Wisconsin, and Iowa, our physician-led team has developed an innovative, multidisciplinary, outcomes-informed approach. Since 1916, our unmatched legacy as a proven behavioral healthcare leader is a source of hope and strength to those we serve and provides a roadmap for the best opportunity for lasting recovery. Rosecrance served nearly 50,000 clients last year.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Rockford, IL, US

Year founded

1916

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