ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Addiction Counselor Jobs in Reading, PA (NOW HIRING)

Pinnacle Treatment Centers

Counselor

Quakertown, PA · On-site

Counselor Pinnacle's Voice: A Tale of Transformation & Recovery "I found myself like a lot of ... Pinnacle Treatment Centers is a leading provider of comprehensive addiction treatment services ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsAddiction Counselor JobsAddiction Counselor Jobs in Reading, PA

Addiction Counselor information

See Reading, PA salary details

$31.2K

$52.1K

$68.2K

How much do addiction counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for addiction counselor in Reading, PA is $52,076.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,700.00 and $58,600.00 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 popular job titles related to Addiction Counselor jobs in Reading, PA?

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

What cities near Reading, PA are hiring for Addiction Counselor jobs?

Cities near Reading, PA with the most Addiction Counselor job openings:

Addiction Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Addiction Counselor job openings in Reading, PA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Internship, 79% Full Time, and 17% Part Time. Highlights an 87% In-person, 4% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,076 per year, or $25 per hour.

Licensed Addiction Counselor

Amergis Healthcare Staffing

Ephrata, PA

$45K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 14 days ago

Job description

The Licensed Addiction Counselor provides one on one drug and alcohol consultation to patients/clients; along with individual and group therapy in a variety of settings including inpatient and outpatient programs. The Licensed Addiction Counselor also provides crisis intervention and assists with behavioral health needs and issues including mental illness, developmental and learning disabilities, substance use, etc.

Minimum Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree in psychology, sociology, social work or public health required
  • Current license or certificate in addictions/substance abuse counseling in the state of assignment required
  • Experience in behavioral health guidelines, to include behavioral health assessments, individual and group therapy, clinical management of patients with mental illness and / or substance abuse issues preferred
  • Complies with all relevant professional standards of practice 
  • Current CPR if applicable
  • TB questionnaire, PPD or chest x-ray if applicable 
  • Current Health certificate (per contract or state regulation) 
  • Must meet all federal, state and local requirements 
  • Must be at least 18 years of age  
Benefits
At Amergis, we firmly believe that our employees are the heartbeat of our organization and we are happy to offer the following benefits:
  • Competitive pay & weekly paychecks
  • Health, dental, vision, and life insurance
  • 401(k) savings plan
  • Awards and recognition programs 
*Benefit eligibility is dependent on employment status. 

About Amergis
Amergis, formerly known as Maxim Healthcare Staffing, has served our clients and communities by connecting people to the work that matters since 1988. We provide meaningful opportunities to our extensive network of healthcare and school-based professionals, ready to work in any hospital, government facility, or school. Through partnership and innovation, Amergis creates unmatched staffing experiences to deliver the best workforce solutions.  

Amergis is an equal opportunity/affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religion, national origin, disability, protected Veteran status, age, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Apply