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Addiction Counselor Jobs in Naperville, IL (NOW HIRING)

Addictions Counselor LOCATION/DEPT : Harbor Light REPORTS TO : Intensive Programs Manger PEOPLE MANAGER : No FLSA CATEGORY : Non-Exempt STATUS TYPE : RFT PAY GRADE : 202 PAY RANGE : $19.83 - $23.79 ...

Addictions Counselor (CADC Required) Counselor Job Summary: In this position, you will meet with clients, analyze their mental health status, and develop a course of therapy to address their issues.

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Addiction Counselor information

See Naperville, IL salary details

$32.5K

$54.1K

$70.9K

How much do addiction counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for addiction counselor in Naperville, IL is $54,145.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,400.00 and $60,900.00 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 Naperville, IL?

The most popular types of Addiction Counselor jobs in Naperville, IL are:

What are popular job titles related to Addiction Counselor jobs in Naperville, IL?

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

What job categories do people searching Addiction Counselor jobs in Naperville, IL look for?

The top searched job categories for Addiction Counselor jobs in Naperville, IL are:

What cities near Naperville, IL are hiring for Addiction Counselor jobs?

Cities near Naperville, IL with the most Addiction Counselor job openings:

Infographic showing various Addiction Counselor job openings in Naperville, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,145 per year, or $26 per hour.

Certified Addiction Counselor

The Salvation Army

Chicago, IL

$52K - $63K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 8 days ago


Salvation Army rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 364 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

597th of 781 rated non-profit organizations


Job description

THE SALVATION ARMY

NORTH & CENTRAL ILLINOIS DIVISION

PATHWAY FORWARD PROGRAM

POSITION DESCRIPTION

POSITION TITLE: Certified Addiction Counselor

LOCATION/DEPT: Pathway Forward Program

REPORTS TO: Clinical Administrator

FLSA CATEGORY: Exempt

STATUS TYPE: RFT

PAY GRADE: 206

PAY RANGE: $52,591 - $63,109

DEPARTMENT MISSION

The mission of the Clinical Department is to provide substance use and mental health therapeutic services to justice-involved individuals referred by the Bureau of Prisons and the U.S. Probation department in a community-based treatment setting. Treatment services address issues associated with drug/alcohol use and/or behavioral problems related to mental illness with use of evidence-based treatment practices.

OUTCOMES

The Certified Addiction Counselor provides quality, evidence-based substance abuse treatment services to increase client understanding of substance use addiction/recovery, use of skills that lead to a reduction in substance use, relapse, recidivism and support sobriety efforts.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  1. Complete substance abuse assessments, treatment plans, case notes, monthly reports and termination reports per contractual timeline obligations.
  2. Conducts substance use assessments using DSM-5-TR and other standardized screening instruments. Based on diagnoses/assessment, establish individual treatment plans that identify goals and activities that support measurable behavior change using the SMART goal framework. Review and update treatment plans per contractual guidelines.
  3. Demonstrate understanding and integrate MAT (Medically Assisted Treatment) in treatment planning and services, as appropriate.
  4. Facilitate individual and group Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other evidenced based therapies (EBTs), as appropriate. Document all sessions, client contact and relevant information via ongoing progress notes.
  5. Maintain and document consultation and/or staffings with relevant personnel, i.e., Licensed Mental Health Clinician (for dual diagnosed substance use/mental health clients), contracting agencies (Bureau of Prison and US Probation department), Reentry Case Managers (RCM), and Correctional Monitors (CM) to support an integrated treatment approach, as appropriate.
  6. Provide family counseling, as deemed clinically appropriate, to include family members and/or other significant in the treatment process.
  7. Meet with the Clinical Administrator and other team members on a regular basis for individual and/or group supervision for case reviews and treatment planning.
  8. Maintain all credentials and complete yearly required training, to includeCPR/ First Aid/AED certification, and other trainingas designated by the Salvation Army and contracting agencies.
  9. All other duties as assigned.

REPORTING RELATIONSHIPS

This position reports to the Clinical Administrator.

This individual works closely with clients, the Clinical Operations Coordinator, Licensed Health Clinicians, and the US Probation Office.

In addition, this individual relates to a large and diverse number of people inside and outside the Salvation Army. In these contacts, the individual acts as a representative of the Salvation Army and its mission.

PERFORMANCE MEASUREMENTS

This individual will be evaluated based on standards established by the facility's Program Directives, with guidance from DHQ - HR. Evaluations will consider: the timeliness, effectiveness, and completeness of tasks performed and the results of internal and external audits, when applicable. Fact-based opinions of patients, subordinates, peers, superiors, and contractual authorities may be considered.

A performance review will be conducted.

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

  • Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) certification in the state of Illinois required.
  • A bachelor's degree in behavioral sciences is required.
  • 2-3 years of training and/or experience in the specialty area, with demonstrated proficiency in substance use assessment, diagnosis, and the application of motivational interviewing techniques required.
  • An equivalent combination of education and experience may be accepted in lieu of the stated education requirement.
  • Valid Driver's license/MVR clearance.

COMPETENCIES

  • Willing to promote the mission of The Salvation Army.
  • Demonstrated ability to use initiative and be a self-starter.
  • An attention to detail, procedures, processes, and policies.
  • An ability to work with confidential material.
  • An ability to manage projects, priorities, and programs in a constantly changing environment.
  • Comfort in functioning in the dual role of authority figure and therapist.
  • An ability to build attitude- and behavior-changing relationships with clients who differ widely in terms of personality, education, employment skills, ethnic background, and socioeconomic status.
  • Experience in using cognitive behavioral interventions and structured social learning approaches in the treatment of individuals with mental health diagnoses.
  • Strong verbal and written communications skills.
  • A commitment to the Salvation Army's vision of human service and social justice; and a clear personal desire to assist in accomplishing the Center's mission of rehabilitation, restorative justice, and human healing.
  • A proactive, client-oriented style which nonetheless maintains appropriate boundaries.
  • Expertise in problem identification and assessment, setting goals, and monitoring progress.

POSITION LIMITATIONS

  • This individual will only commit Army resources that have been allocated or approved.
  • This individual will keep the Clinical Administrator informed on all critical issues relating to their area of responsibility.
  • This individual will adhere to all policies and procedures in carrying out the responsibilities of this position.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS/WORK ENVIRONMENT

  • This position is required to do light physical work and must be able to lift 15 pounds.
  • To successfully perform the essential functions of this position, the employee is regularly required to use standard office equipment and a PC.
  • The work environment for this position is a residential environment with a low to moderate noise level.
  • Maintain positive work atmosphere by behaving and communicating in a manner that fosters and maintains positive relationships with co-workers and supervisors. This would include but not be limited to such actions: resolution of conflicts in a positive manner; courteous treatment of staff, clients, and visitors; respect of others' property and person, professional and appropriate communication to and about co-workers, supervisors, and subordinates. Support the Mission of The Salvation Army by treating every donor, contact and colleague with respect and dignity, and without discrimination of any kind.

THE SALVATION ARMY MISSION STATEMENT

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

DOING THEMOST GOOD

Do you want to use your skills and talents to make a lasting difference in the world?The Salvation Army is the fourth largest charity in the United States and is an international organization based on Biblical principles created to help people in need.We are mission-driven, diverse, collaborative, and focused on positive results for people. Join us in making a difference.

The Salvation Army offers a competitive benefit package for eligible employees which may include the following medical, dental, vision, hearing, disability and life insurance, flexible spending accounts, 403(b) retirement accounts, a company-funded defined contribution (pension) plan and generous time off policies.

In compliance with the ADA AmendmentsActif you have a disability and would like to requestan accommodationto apply for this position, please contact the Human Resources department.

The Salvation Army is an Equal Opportunity Employer Minority/Female/Veterans/Disabled. Candidates who are back-to-work, US Veterans, people with disabilities, people who have beenimpactedby the justice system, and/or people without a college degree are encouraged to apply.


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About Salvation Army

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

Industry

Non-profits, retail, amusement, gambling, and recreation and religious organizations

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alexandria, VA, US