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Addiction Counselor Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

Sunshine Behavioral Health

Addiction Counselor

Bastrop, TX · On-site

$45K - $60K/yr

The Addiction Counselor is responsible for assessing and monitoring client behavior while in treatment for substance use. In collaboration with the Clinical Director and Clinical Supervisor, the ...

Recovery Unplugged,LLC

Counselor

Austin, TX · On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

Description Substance Use Counselor (LCDC / LCDC-I) Pay: $45,000 - $55,000 per year Join Our Team ... Recovery Unplugged Behavioral Health is a nationally recognized leader in addiction and mental ...

Recovery Unplugged Austin

Counselor

Austin, TX · On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

Substance Use Counselor (LCDC / LCDC-I)** **Pay:** $45,000 - $55,000 per year **Join Our Team at ... Recovery Unplugged Behavioral Health is a nationally recognized leader in addiction and mental ...

Recovery Unplugged,LLC

Counselor

Austin, TX

$45K - $55K/yr

Description Substance Use Counselor (LCDC / LCDC-I) Pay: $45,000 - $55,000 per year Sunday ... Recovery Unplugged Behavioral Health is a nationally recognized leader in addiction and mental ...

Recovery Unplugged Austin

Counselor

Austin, TX · On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

Substance Use Counselor (LCDC / LCDC-I)** **Pay:** $45,000 - $55,000 per year ** Sunday- Thursday ... Recovery Unplugged Behavioral Health is a nationally recognized leader in addiction and mental ...

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All JobsAddiction Counselor JobsAddiction Counselor Jobs in Austin, TX

Addiction Counselor information

See Austin, TX salary details

$32.2K

$53.7K

$70.4K

How much do addiction counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for addiction counselor in Austin, TX is $53,749.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,100.00 and $60,500.00 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 Austin, TX?

The most popular types of Addiction Counselor jobs in Austin, TX are:

What are popular job titles related to Addiction Counselor jobs in Austin, TX?

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

What job categories do people searching Addiction Counselor jobs in Austin, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Addiction Counselor jobs in Austin, TX are:

What cities near Austin, TX are hiring for Addiction Counselor jobs?

Cities near Austin, TX with the most Addiction Counselor job openings:

Addiction Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Addiction Counselor job openings in Austin, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,749 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Addiction Counselor

Sunshine Behavioral Health

Bastrop, TX • On-site

$45K - $60K/yr

Other

Posted 26 days ago

Job description

Role Summary:
The Addiction Counselor is responsible for assessing and monitoring client behavior while in treatment for substance use. In collaboration with the Clinical Director and Clinical Supervisor, the Addiction Counselor is responsible for case management services, facilitating group therapy, providing crisis management, AOD assessment treatment planning and counseling, and completing discharge planning.


Responsibilities:

  • Develop, recommend, and review AOD treatment plans and goals with clients and/or their families.
  • Initiate and facilitate individual and group therapy sessions and document all processes in the EMR platform.
  • Provide referrals and resources to support the client’s recovery while in treatment while collaborating with the Therapist.
  • Develop and implement appropriate discharge planning with client and/or their families.
  • Record client health information in the EMR platform and complete timely thorough documentation.
  • Support clients with case management services including FMLA/STD matters and submit them through the appropriate channel.
  • Participate in consultation and collaboration with other care team members and treatment professionals.
  • Respond to emergencies and initiate action as required.
  • Attend and participate in staff meetings and monthly trainings.


Preferred Qualifications:

  • Possess experience and/or education of chemical and alcohol dependency and abuse.
  • Possess experience and/or education in crisis management.
  • Ability to use motivational interviewing to reinforce client’s power to make change.
  • Possess knowledge of HIPAA.
  • The candidate will show skills and competency in working with clients, from undertaking clinical assessments, planning and delivery of care to review of effective methods of interventions, in order to shape continuing service provision which will meet the needs of individuals.
  • Preferred candidates should be able to work well within a team and independently, effective communication skills, time management, ability to problem solve, and strong professional boundaries.
  • Preferred candidate must be sensitive to religious, ethnic, and cultural differences.
  • Knowledge of CBT, DBT, 12-step recovery, and other evidence-based theories is a plus.


Minimum Requirements:

  • STATE APPROPRIATE LICENSE
  • Associate’s degree (or experience equivalent to)
  • Valid Driver’s License
  • Current CPR and First Aid Certification or willing to obtain.
  • Must successfully complete Background Check, Drug Screen, and TB Test