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Addiction Counselor Jobs in Raleigh, NC (NOW HIRING)

Substance Abuse Counselor

Durham, NC

$21.50 - $29/hr

Compassionate Substance Abuse Counselor Needed! Position Overview: The Substance abuse counselor ... Previous experience working with Medically Assisted Treatment addiction patients for at least one ...

Substance Abuse Counselor

Durham, NC · On-site

$21.50 - $29/hr

Additionally, counselors will evaluate patients' progress during therapy. Substance abuse ... Previous experience working with Medically Assisted Treatment addiction patients for at least one ...

Substance Abuse Counselor

Durham, NC

$21.50 - $29/hr

Additionally, counselors will evaluate patients' progress during therapy. Substance abuse ... Previous experience working with Medically Assisted Treatment addiction patients for at least one ...

Substance Abuse Counselor

Durham, NC · On-site

$21.50 - $29/hr

Additionally, counselors will evaluate patients' progress during therapy. Substance abuse ... Previous experience working with Medically Assisted Treatment addiction patients for at least one ...

Clinical Addictions Specialist

Chapel Hill, NC · On-site

$28.87 - $41.50/hr

Responsibilities: 1. Develops an individualized treatment plan incorporating individual counseling ... Must have knowledge about pharmacological treatment for addiction and/or other mental illness.

Extensive knowledge of federal, state, and local policies and procedures regarding counseling; * Considerable knowledge of social-emotional learning best practices; * Considerable knowledge of ...

New

Five years of counseling experience in a public-school environment. CERTIFICATION AND LICENSE REQUIREMENTS Must hold or be eligible for a North Carolina professional educator's license with licensure ...

New

Five years of counseling experience in a public-school environment. CERTIFICATION AND LICENSE REQUIREMENTS Must hold or be eligible for a North Carolina professional educator's license with licensure ...

Extensive knowledge of federal, state, and local policies and procedures regarding counseling; * Considerable knowledge of social-emotional learning best practices; * Considerable knowledge of ...

Five years of counseling experience in a public-school environment. CERTIFICATION AND LICENSE REQUIREMENTS Must hold or be eligible for a North Carolina professional educator's license with licensure ...

Extensive knowledge of federal, state, and local policies and procedures regarding counseling; * Considerable knowledge of social-emotional learning best practices; * Considerable knowledge of ...

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Addiction Counselor information

See Raleigh, NC salary details

$31.6K

$52.7K

$69K

How much do addiction counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for addiction counselor in Raleigh, NC is $52,712.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,200.00 and $59,300.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do addiction counselors make?

Addiction counselors in Georgia typically earn an average annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, certification, and work setting. Salaries can vary based on location, education level, and whether they work in outpatient or inpatient facilities. Certification as a substance abuse counselor can also influence earning potential.

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 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.

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.

How to become a counselor for addicts?

To become an addiction counselor, individuals typically need a relevant bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, or a related field, along with specialized training in addiction counseling. Many states require certification or licensure, such as Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), which involves completing supervised hours and passing an exam. Strong interpersonal skills and knowledge of addiction treatment methods are essential for success in this 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 offers opportunities for meaningful work in healthcare, mental health, and social services environments.
What are the most commonly searched types of Addiction Counselor jobs in Raleigh, NC? The most popular types of Addiction Counselor jobs in Raleigh, NC are:
What cities near Raleigh, NC are hiring for Addiction Counselor jobs? Cities near Raleigh, NC with the most Addiction Counselor job openings:
Infographic showing various Addiction Counselor job openings in Raleigh, NC as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,712 per year, or $25.3 per hour.
SUBSTANCE USE DISORDER COUNSELOR - 40010879

SUBSTANCE USE DISORDER COUNSELOR - 40010879

Durham County

Durham, NC • On-site

$21.50 - $29/hr

Full-time

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Durham County Government employs approximately 1,900 employees that work towards providing needed services throughout the community. With a wide array of services, Durham County Government is at the heart of a rapidly growing and diverse area offering residents, employees and visitors exciting opportunities to live, work, grow and play. For more information about Durham County Government, visit www.dconc.gov
DEPARTMENT:
JUSTICE SERVICES
DATE POSTED:
DECEMBER 5, 2025
CLOSING DATE:
OPEN UNTIL FILLED
HIRING RANGE:
$55,366.00 - $66,000.00
POSITION NUMBER:
40010879
JOB TYPE:
FULL-TIME, NONEXEMPT, PROVISIONAL
**THIS POSITION IS PROVISIONAL (GRANT) AND BENEFITS ELIGIBLE WITH POTENTIAL FUNDING UNTIL SEPTEMBER 29, 2028**
GENERAL DESCRIPTION:
The work performed is professional and provides counseling to clients to develop their cognitive, behavioral, and social skills related to the treatment plan for their substance use addiction(s) and behavioral health needs.
This position works under general supervision.
DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
The functions listed below are those that represent the majority of the time spent working in this position. Management may assign additional functions related to the type of work of the position as necessary.
  • Assists clients develop their cognitive, behavioral, social, and vocational skills as those skills relate to the treatment plan for their substance abuse addiction(s).
  • Screens clients who are referred for addictive and/or psychological disorders. Uses standardized tools to screen clients and conduct intakes, orientations, and assessments (social, educational, cultural, psychological, physical, career, and familial histories).
  • Develops individual treatment plans (daily regimens, behavioral goals, and after care); conducting individual and group counseling sessions; performing crisis interventions; providing client education and making referrals.
  • Collaborates with community-based agencies to assist in providing enhanced services for clients in the community.
  • Performs case management including record-keeping and report submissions to the supervisor and the treatment team.
  • Develops and completes person-centered plan with intake or comprehensive clinical assessment. Provides and engages clients in individual counseling in accordance with their person-centered treatment plan.
  • Serves as a member of the facility's multidisciplinary team and provides an initial diagnosis, recommended treatment, and follow-up and discharge plans.
  • Uses discretion and judgment to determine a substance use diagnosis.
  • Conducts psycho-educational groups using evidenced based treatment models when assigned.
  • Works exclusively with the Justice Services involved populations who have diagnosable substance use disorders (and often co-occurring mental health conditions).
  • Performs related work as assigned.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:
  • Knowledge and application of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5) for diagnosing substance use disorders.
  • Knowledge of addiction processes, including psychological and physical withdrawal.
  • Knowledge of psycho-pharmacy and drug interactions.
  • Knowledge and application of therapeutic approaches including group dynamics, crisis interventions, and family therapy.
  • Knowledge of community resources.
  • Skilled in evaluating and screening clients for appropriate treatment and referrals.
  • Skilled in formulating clear, goal-oriented treatment plans, and to concisely record documentation.
  • Skilled in developing and maintaining effective communication and rapport with clients, their families, and other health/therapy providers.

MINIMUM EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE REQUIREMENTS:
Requires credentials as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) or as a Certified Criminal Justice Addictions Professional (CCJP) with a minimum of two (2) years of clinical experience to practice under the provisions of the North Carolina Substance Abuse Professional Practice Act.
Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist (LCAS), Licensed Clinical Addictions Specialist - Associate (LCAS-A), Licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor (LCMHC or LCMHC-S), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW or LCSW-A) or Licensed Psychological Associate (LPA) with substance abuse work experience of two (2) years will be considered.
SPECIAL CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSES REQUIREMENTS:
  • None

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:
Performs sedentary work that involves walking or standing some of the time and involves exerting up to 10 pounds of force on a regular and recurring basis or sustained keyboard operations.
UNAVOIDABLE HAZARDS (WORK ENVIRONMENT):
  • None

Durham County Government is an Equal Opportunity Employer