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

MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELOR

Novato, CA · On-site

$24/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are seeking a Mental Health Counselor I to join our Residential Support Services (RSS) team. RSS offers affordable housing with 24/7 individualized care that includes meals, medication management ...

MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELOR

Novato, CA · On-site

$24/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are seeking a Mental Health Counselor I to join our Residential Support Services (RSS) team. RSS offers affordable housing with 24/7 individualized care that includes meals, medication management ...

MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELOR I

Novato, CA · On-site

$24/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are seeking a Mental Health Counselor I to join our Residential Support Services (RSS) team. RSS offers affordable housing with 24/7 individualized care that includes meals, medication management ...

MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELOR I

Novato, CA · On-site

$24/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

We are seeking a Mental Health Counselor I to join our Residential Support Services (RSS) team. RSS offers affordable housing with 24/7 individualized care that includes meals, medication management ...

Showing results 21-40

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 Aug 18, 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 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 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 August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 4% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $59,287 per year, or $28.5 per hour.

Registered Alcohol & Drug Tech

Align Recovery Centers, LLC

Sonoma, CA • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

Description:

· The RADT assists clients to regain control over their lives while learning the process of recovery.

· Complete and maintain accurate records or reports regarding the patients’ histories and progress, services provided or other required information.

· Assess individuals’ degree of drug dependency by collecting and analyzing urine samples.

· Review and evaluate clients’ progress in relation to measurable goals described in treatment and care plans.

· Intervene as an advocate for clients or patients to resolve emergency problems in crisis situations.

· Counsel clients or patient, individually or in group sessions, to assist in overcoming dependencies, adjusting to life or making changes.

· Participate in case conferences or staff meetings.

· Attend training sessions to increase knowledge and skills.

· Provide clients or family members with information about addiction issues and about available services or programs, making appropriate referrals when necessary.

· Counsel family members to assist them in understanding and supporting clients in addition to understanding their own underlying issues.

· Plan or implement follow-up or aftercare programs for clients to be discharged from treatment program.

Requirements:

High school diploma, certification or registered through a recognized alcohol and drug certification entity such as CCAPP or CADTP, (or enrolled) or a licensed mental health professional. Minimum 1 year experience (preferred) in the field of chemical dependency, psychiatric care and/or social services. Good computer skills with knowledge of electronic health records systems. Valid driver's license with no major violations or accidents last 3 years. Current TB test, CPR and First Aid certification (or willing to obtain).