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Addiction Counselor Jobs in Spokane, WA (NOW HIRING)

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Addiction Counselor information

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$32.9K

$54.8K

$71.8K

How much do addiction counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for addiction counselor in Spokane, WA is $54,829.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,000.00 and $61,700.00 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 the most commonly searched types of Addiction Counselor jobs in Spokane, WA?

The most popular types of Addiction Counselor jobs in Spokane, WA are:

What job categories do people searching Addiction Counselor jobs in Spokane, WA look for?

The top searched job categories for Addiction Counselor jobs in Spokane, WA are:

What cities near Spokane, WA are hiring for Addiction Counselor jobs?

Cities near Spokane, WA with the most Addiction Counselor job openings:

Infographic showing various Addiction Counselor job openings in Spokane, WA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 94% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,829 per year, or $26.4 per hour.

Senior Addiction Specialist Mental Health Counselor (Telehealth)

Open Doors Counseling

Spokane, WA • Remote

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Position Overview

Open Doors Counseling is seeking a dedicated and compassionate Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) to join our remote team. This full-time position, which specializes in addiction counseling and geriatric care, offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on the well-being of elderly clients facing mental health challenges related to aging. The role is designed for professionals ready to apply their expertise to support a vulnerable population in the comfort of their own homes.

About the Organization

Open Doors Counseling is committed to providing high-quality, specialized mental health services tailored specifically for seniors. Based in Spokane, Washington, we leverage the benefits of telehealth to ensure accessibility for our clients throughout the state. Our focus is on creating a safe and nurturing environment that promotes emotional well-being and resilience among elderly individuals, helping them navigate life's transitions and challenges.

Work Environment

This position is fully remote, allowing counselors to engage with clients via telehealth platforms from anywhere within Washington State. Our virtual facility is equipped with state-of-the-art technology to ensure seamless, effective communication and therapeutic interactions. Counselors maintain a regular work schedule from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday, promoting a balanced work-life integration.

Key Responsibilities
  • Conduct comprehensive mental health assessments for elderly clients to determine their specific needs and develop individualized treatment plans.
  • Facilitate both individual and group counseling sessions addressing various emotional concerns related to aging, including grief, loss, anxiety, and depression.
  • Collaborate with multidisciplinary healthcare teams, including physicians, nurses, and social workers, to ensure holistic care that meets the diverse needs of elderly residents.
  • Educate family members on effective strategies to support their elderly loved ones, enhancing their emotional health and quality of life.
  • Provide specialized grief and loss counseling for clients and their families, particularly during end-of-life stages.
  • Implement cognitive stimulation and mental health interventions designed to maintain and enhance mental acuity in elderly individuals.
Patient Population / Client Focus

The primary focus of this role revolves around elderly clients experiencing various mental health challenges. At Open Doors Counseling, each counselor is equipped to support seniors coping with life transitions, loss, and age-related psychological issues. Our client-centric approach recognizes the unique emotional and psychological needs of older adults, ensuring that we provide culturally sensitive and empathetic care to everyone we serve.

Qualifications
  • A Master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling from an accredited institution.
  • A valid Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) certification.
  • Minimum of four years of recent experience in geriatric mental health counseling.
  • Specialized training or certification in addiction counseling and elderly mental health.
  • Strong knowledge of evidence-based practices in geriatric mental health.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to effectively connect with seniors and their families.
  • High level of empathy and understanding of the diverse backgrounds of elderly clients.
  • Proficiency in conducting thorough assessments and crafting tailored treatment plans.
  • Awareness of ethical and legal standards pertaining to geriatric mental health counseling.
Preferred Experience
  • Experience working in a telehealth environment, utilizing digital tools effectively for client interactions.
  • Demonstrated ability to collaborate successfully with interdisciplinary teams.
  • Experience implementing mental health interventions specifically designed for elderly clients.
Compensation and Benefits

The yearly salary for this position ranges from USD 65,000 to 95,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications. In addition, we offer a sign-on bonus to help with your transition into our team. Benefits include:

  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) for confidential support, counseling services, and mental health resources.
  • Wellness programs designed to promote a healthy lifestyle among our employees.
  • Flexible schedules to support a balanced work-life dynamic.
  • Health savings accounts or flexible spending accounts are available for healthcare costs.
  • Additional incentives geared towards health and wellness.
Career Growth Opportunities

At Open Doors Counseling, we are committed to professional development and career advancement. Our team members have access to ongoing training, specialized workshops, and certification opportunities that not only enhance their skills but also deepen their understanding of geriatric mental health. We encourage our counselors to engage in continuous learning, offering pathways for growth within the organization.

Why Join Our Team

Join a passionate group of mental health professionals dedicated to making a tangible difference in the lives of elderly individuals. At Open Doors Counseling, you will find a supportive environment that values collaboration, creativity, and continuous improvement. Our team is driven by a shared commitment to providing outstanding mental health services while cultivating a workplace culture that prioritizes both individual well-being and collective achievement.

Application Information

If you are ready to take the next step in your career and make a profound impact in the field of geriatric mental health, we invite you to apply. Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and experience. Join us at Open Doors Counseling and be part of a transformative journey for yourself and the clients we serve.