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Addiction Counselor Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Counselor

Batavia, NY · On-site

$49K - $58K/yr

Are you a recent or soon-to-be graduate with internship/clinical experience hoping to begin your counseling career in the Mental Health or Addictions field? Perhaps you're a seasoned professional ...

Counselor

Batavia, NY

$49K - $58K/mo

Are you a recent or soon-to-be graduate with internship/clinical experience hoping to begin your counseling career in the Mental Health or Addictions field? Perhaps you're a seasoned professional ...

Counselor

Batavia, NY

$49K - $58K/mo

Are you a recent or soon-to-be graduate with internship/clinical experience hoping to begin your counseling career in the Mental Health or Addictions field? Perhaps you're a seasoned professional ...

Displays knowledge of addiction/recovery and/or behavioral health self-help group processes and principles of counseling. Qualifications * High School Diploma/GED required. * Customer service and/or ...

Counselor Aide- Evenings

Rochester, NY · On-site

$16 - $17.50/hr

Displays knowledge of addiction/recovery and/or behavioral health self-help group processes and principles of counseling. Qualifications * High School Diploma/GED required. * Customer service and/or ...

The Relief Counselor provides per diem support, education, orientation, daily living skills ... addiction services is a plus. Physical/Mental Demands: * Job requires sitting, handling objects ...

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Addiction Counselor information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$32.1K

$53.5K

$70.1K

How much do addiction counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for addiction counselor in Rochester, NY is $53,527.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,900.00 and $60,200.00 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 Rochester, NY? The most popular types of Addiction Counselor jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What job categories do people searching Addiction Counselor jobs in Rochester, NY look for? The top searched job categories for Addiction Counselor jobs in Rochester, NY are:
What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Addiction Counselor jobs? Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Addiction Counselor job openings:
Infographic showing various Addiction Counselor job openings in Rochester, NY as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,527 per year, or $25.7 per hour.
Hourly Addictions Counselor Assistant - John L. Norris ATC

Hourly Addictions Counselor Assistant - John L. Norris ATC

New York State

Rochester, NY • On-site

$22.85/hr

Other

Posted 22 days ago


New York State rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 180 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

25th of 50 rated states


Job description

Duties Description All Hourly positions with the NYS Office of Addiction Services and Supports (OASAS) are utilized on an "as needed" basis, and as such, there is no guarantee of work hours or a set schedule. Any/all questions should be directed to recruitment@oasas.ny.gov. The Addictions Counselor Assistant serves as a member of the ATC's multidisciplinary treatment team and works under the supervision of an Addiction Counselor performing duties related to the care and counseling of clients

Responsibilities of this position include, but are not limited to the following: Assists with individual counseling, group counseling, crisis intervention, treatment and discharge planning and clinical activities as assigned. Monitors the safety and security of facility and its patients, and takes action to maintain a positive and healthy milieu. Assists with patient transportation, room searches, and urine toxicology collection.

Prepares room and client supplies for new admissions (bedding, bath, etc.) Conducts routine rounds and documents observations. Completes required client and facility documentation both electronic and paper as appropriate. Participates in meal preparation and distribution

Communicates shift change information as appropriate to facilitate smooth transition. May complete insurance calls and documentation regarding coordination of care with financial/insurance entities. Performs other job-related duties as assigned.

NOTE: The ATC uses a computerized patient record system. Minimum Qualifications Non-Competitive: two years of experience, one year of which must have required the application of communication skills and one year must have been in a direct treatment capacity in an addictions treatment setting; or an associate's degree in a human services field; or current registration as a Credentialed Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Counselor (CASAC)-Trainee or CASAC-Provisional in New York State. NOTE: Candidate(s) must be eligible and maintain eligibility for full and unconditional participation in the Medicaid and Medicare programs.

Failure to maintain Medicaid/Medicare eligibility will result in the termination of employment. Additional Comments OASAS Addiction Treatment Centers (ATCs) are Tobacco Free Facilities. Background Investigation Requirements: Prospective appointees will be: 1) Checked against the Staff Exclusion List (SEL) maintained by the Justice Center for the Protection of People with Special Needs.

Prospective employees whose names appear on the SEL as having been found responsible for serious or repeated acts of abuse or neglect will be barred from appointment and may have their names removed from the eligible list(s) for the title(s) if applicable. 2) Investigated through a Criminal Background Check (CBC) that includes State and federal Criminal History Record Checks. All convictions must be reported; conviction of a felony or misdemeanor, or any falsified or omitted information on the prospective appointee's employment application may bar appointment or result in removal after appointment.

Each case will be determined on its own merits, consistent with the applicable provisions of State and federal laws, rules, and regulations. Prospective employees will be fingerprinted in order to obtain a record of their criminal history information, and may be required to pay any necessary fees. 3) Screened against the Statewide Central Register of Child Abuse and Maltreatment (SCR).

Prospective employees may be required to pay any necessary fees. Additionally, prospective employees whose names are indicated on the SCR may be barred from appointment. Some positions may require additional credentials or a background check to verify your identity.


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