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Addiction Counselor Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA (NOW HIRING)

Looking for a client-focused Residential Counselor, who has knowledge of mental health and ... of addiction, and mental health disabilities and treatment Must be willing to work overtime ...

Crisis Counselor

Petaluma, CA · On-site

$24.04 - $26.54/hr

Counselors will provide a safe and nurturing environment for youth enrolled in the program and will intervene as necessary to assist the youth in developing skills for growth and maintaining ...

Relief Counselor-Napa

Napa, CA · On-site

$20.25 - $22.78/hr

Progress Foundation Relief Counselors receive training in the community mental health field without the prerequisite of extensive education. Relief Counselors provide support in our residential ...

Progress Foundation Relief Counselors receive training in the community mental health field without the prerequisite of extensive education. Relief Counselors provide support in our residential ...

Support Counselor

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$21 - $24/hr

Support Counselor - Santa Rosa, CA Join Alternative Family Services as a Support Counselor and take part in our mission! The Support Counselor works in the field, in collaboration with the treatment ...

Residential Counselor I

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$21.51 - $26.88/hr

Job Summary: Under the supervision of the Residential Services Supervisor (RSS) and the Residential Counselor II (RC II), the Residential Counselor I (RC I) is responsible for the care and ...

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Addiction Counselor information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$35.5K

$59.3K

$77.6K

How much do addiction counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 15, 2026, the average yearly pay for addiction counselor in Santa Rosa, CA is $59,287.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,700.00 and $66,700.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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.

Can I be an addiction counselor without a degree?

Becoming an addiction counselor typically requires at least a high school diploma or equivalent, but most states and employers prefer candidates with a relevant bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, or a related field. Additionally, many addiction counselors obtain certification or licensure, which often involves completing specific education and supervised experience requirements. Without a degree, it may be difficult to meet licensing standards or advance in the profession.

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.

Is addiction counselor a good career?

An addiction counselor is a mental health professional who helps individuals recover from substance use disorders through counseling and support. The role often requires relevant certifications, strong communication skills, and empathy, with job growth driven by increasing awareness of addiction issues. It can be a rewarding career for those interested in helping others and working in healthcare or social services environments.

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, and some may earn higher salaries in private practice or supervisory roles.

How to get a job as an addiction counselor?

To become an addiction counselor, you typically need a relevant degree such as a bachelor's or master's in counseling, psychology, or social work, along with certification or licensure specific to your region. Gaining experience through internships or supervised practice is also important, and strong interpersonal and communication skills are essential for working effectively with clients.
What are popular job titles related to Addiction Counselor jobs in Santa Rosa, CA? For Addiction Counselor jobs in Santa Rosa, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Addiction Counselor jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Addiction Counselor jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:
What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Addiction Counselor jobs? Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Addiction Counselor job openings:
Infographic showing various Addiction Counselor job openings in Santa Rosa, CA as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 13% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,287 per year, or $28.5 per hour.

Full-time Bilingual Spanish/English Addiction Counselor

Center Point - DAAC

Santa Rosa, CA • On-site

$28 - $33/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Job Title: Bilingual Spanish/English Addiction Counselor Certified/Registered
Location: 2403 Professional Dr, Santa Rosa, CA.
Hourly Rate: $28.00 - $33.00 per hour + $2/hour differential for fluent bilingual speakers (Spanish/English).
Schedule: Full-time, 40h a week from Monday through Friday. The typical schedule will be:
  • Day shifts: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM.
  • Evening shifts: 11:30 AM - 8:00 PM (2-3 times a week).

Job Summary:
We are seeking a compassionate and experienced Registered or Certified Full-time Bilingual Spanish/English Substance Abuse Counselor to join our outpatient clinic team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in substance abuse treatment, excellent communication skills, and a passion for empowering individuals to overcome addiction.
Note: Candidates must be certified or registered as an addiction counselor from a State of California Accredited Institution, such as CCAPP, CAADE, or CADTP. Certification or registration is a requirement to apply for this position.

Responsibilities:
  • Conduct comprehensive screenings and assessments to determine program eligibility.
  • Provide individual and group counseling using evidence-based practices.
  • Develop and implement treatment plans.
  • Maintain accurate client charts and records.
  • Facilitate relapse prevention and continuing care services.
  • Provide follow-up and aftercare counseling and case management.

Qualifications and Requirements:
  • Substance Abuse Registration/Certification from a State of California Accredited Institution (CAADE, CADTP, CCAPP).
  • Demonstrated experience providing substance abuse treatment services.
  • Experience working with criminal justice populations (state parole and probation) preferred.
  • Knowledge of evidence-based substance abuse treatment models and treatment modalities.
  • Understanding of trauma-informed care.
  • Ability to pass and maintain criminal justice security clearance.
  • 2+ years of SUD program and case management experience.
  • Bilingual Spanish/English.
  • Valid driver's license and clean driving record.
  • Strong communication, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills.
  • Valid CPR/ First Aid.
  • TB clearance.

Work Schedule:
  • Variable hours, including weekends, and evenings.
  • Outpatient hours: mostly 9-5:30pm, with rotating evenings from 11:30am to 8:00pm.

What We Offer:
  • Opportunity to make a difference in the lives of individuals struggling with substance abuse.
  • Collaborative and supportive work environment.
  • Professional growth and development opportunities.

Benefits:
  • Medical.
  • Vision.
  • Dental.
  • Retirement.
  • FSA.
  • PTO.