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Addiction Counselor Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

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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 May 28, 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Addiction Counselor, and why are they important?

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 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 is the highest paid addiction counselor?

The highest paid addiction counselors typically work in specialized settings or hold advanced certifications, with salaries reaching over $70,000 annually. Factors such as experience, location, and additional qualifications can influence earning potential significantly.

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 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 May 2026, with employment types broken down into 92% Full Time, 6% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 93% In-person, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $50,932 per year, or $24.5 per hour.

Addiction Counselor - Spencer, Iowa

Community Elements

Spencer, IA • On-site

$27.77/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago


Job description

Join Our Mission to Transform Lives!

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.

Position Purpose: As an Addiction Counselor in our Spencer office, you'll serve as a primary counselor in the delivery of substance use disorder treatment services to clients and their families and facilitate the issues of recovery into their daily living situations.  In this role, you will develop an individualized treatment plan for assigned clients, facilitate group and individual sessions and be part of a team in the delivery of addictions treatment services ensuring services are provided in an ethical, legal and moral manner within a safe and therapeutic environment, consistent with applicable regulatory and accreditation standards.  

Sign on bonus available!

  • $8,000 for non-license (tCADC/CADC) Right click to learn more about the Iowa tCADC/CADC https://iowabc.org 
  • $10,000 for 1st or 2nd level license

Qualifications/Basic Job Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, Counseling, Social Work, Addiction Studies or other related field, or commensurate experience and training preferred.
  • Associate's degree in Psychology, Social Work, Addiction Studies or other related field required with a tCADC/CADC
  • Minimum tCADC/CADC, LBSW, LMSW, tLMHC/LMHC or obtain within 90 days of hire or other state or national licensure that supersedes the tCADC.
  • 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.

Essential Responsibilities:

1. Work hours prescribed by leadership and any additional hours deemed necessary for the responsibilities assigned.

2. Conduct individual, group, and family counseling and educational sessions for clients and/or family members.

3. Complete client psychosocial and individualized treatment plan within required time frame.

4. Identify client clinical and case management needs and work to address those needs.

5. Educate client and client support members regarding all aspects of treatment, corresponding health issues and steps to recovery.

6. Undertake primary case management responsibilities for designated clients.

7. Ensure that documentation in client service record is maintained consistent with expectations defined by licensure, TJC and Medicaid regulations.

8. Maintain communications with all staff (e.g. admissions, case management and discharge plans).

9. Assume on-call responsibilities per schedule or when designated.

10. Present workshops, lectures and training to clients, families, and staff and community groups.

11. Be familiar with court proceedings and available to make court appearances on behalf of Rosecrance clients.

12. Serve as a member of the team and participate in all team meetings and activities.

13. Exercise confidentiality in keeping with the Code of Conduct and with the framework of the law.

14. Deliver exceptional customer service consistently to every customer.

15. Serve as a role model for other staff, clients and customers and demonstrate positive guest relations in representing Rosecrance. 

16. Assume other related responsibilities as delegated and assigned by management.

Schedule: 

  • Hours: Monday -Thursday, 8:00AM-6:30PM or Tuesday-Friday, 8:00AM-6:30PM (40 hours per week)

Work Location:

Rosecrance Jackson Centers – Spencer, IA

  • Work Mode: On-site

Compensation & Rewards

Pay: (based on education, experience and credentials)

    • Starting rate for Bachelors - $24.44/hour
    • Starting rate for Masters - $27.77/hour

Incentives:

  • Additional $1,500 per year with tCADC/CADC certification
  • Additional $1,800 per year for tLMHC & LMSW
  • Additional $5,000 per year for LMHC & LISW

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).

Ready to Make a Difference?
Apply today and be part of something bigger! Your role at Rosecrance will help transform lives—starting with your own.