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Addiction Counselor Jobs in Washington, DC (NOW HIRING)

cbi

Certified Addiction Counselor

Washington, DC

$25 - $33.30/hr

Certified Addiction Counselor Community Bridges, Inc. (CBI) is an integrated behavioral healthcare organization offering a full continuum of care, including variety of programs throughout Arizona ...

cbi

Certified Addiction Counselor

Washington, DC

$25 - $33.30/hr

Certified Addiction Counselor Community Bridges, Inc. (CBI) is an integrated behavioral healthcare organization offering a full continuum of care, including variety of programs throughout Arizona ...

cbi

Certified Addiction Counselor

Washington, DC

$25 - $33.30/hr

Certified Addiction Counselor Community Bridges, Inc. (CBI) is an integrated behavioral healthcare organization offering a full continuum of care, including variety of programs throughout Arizona ...

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All JobsAddiction Counselor JobsAddiction Counselor Jobs in Washington, DC

Addiction Counselor information

See Washington, DC salary details

$36.8K

$61.4K

$80.4K

How much do addiction counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for addiction counselor in Washington, DC is $61,393.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,500.00 and $69,100.00 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 Washington, DC?

The most popular types of Addiction Counselor jobs in Washington, DC are:

What are popular job titles related to Addiction Counselor jobs in Washington, DC?

For Addiction Counselor jobs in Washington, DC, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Addiction Counselor jobs in Washington, DC look for?

The top searched job categories for Addiction Counselor jobs in Washington, DC are:

Addiction Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Addiction Counselor job openings in Washington, DC as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $61,393 per year, or $29.5 per hour.

Addiction Counselor

Rockville, MD • On-site

Maryland Treatment Centers, Inc.
See more jobs at Maryland Treatment Centers, Inc.external

$48K - $64K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

Job Description:

Maryland Treatment Centers Inc. is a growing regional behavioral health provider focused on clinical excellence, innovation, and scholarship. We are a thriving center for treatment of addictions and co-occurring disorders. We offer a full continuum of care, including inpatient, residential, intensive outpatient, and outpatient services.

Avery House for Women and Children is seeking a compassionate Addiction Counselor to join our treatment team. In this role, you will provide individual, group, and family counseling services to women in early recovery while supporting clients as they work toward long-term recovery goals. This position offers the opportunity to make a meaningful difference while working in a collaborative, supportive behavioral health environment focused on quality care and client success.

Shift

  • Monday - Friday

What You’ll Do

  • Provide individual, group, and family counseling sessions focused on addiction-related topics and recovery support.
  • Engage clients experiencing substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health concerns with compassion and professionalism.
  • Complete client intakes, assessments, treatment planning, progress notes, discharge planning, and continuing care reviews.
  • Develop and maintain accurate and timely clinical documentation.
  • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT).
  • Collaborate with treatment teams to support individualized client care.
  • Maintain communication with referral sources and outside agencies involved in client care, including child welfare, criminal justice systems, and housing programs.
  • Apply evidence-based counseling practices when working with clients with co-occurring disorders.
  • Participate in a team-based approach to promote client recovery and successful outcomes.

Why You’ll Love Working Here

  • Purpose-driven work that truly changes lives • Supportive, team-oriented culture focused on recovery and patient care
  • Opportunities for professional growth and career advancement
  • Strong commitment to clinical development and continuing education
  • Clinical supervision provided for eligible certifications and licensure
  • An organization that values collaboration, compassion, and high-quality care
  • Convenient location with easy access to Metro
  • Free parking available

What We’re Looking For

  • Associate’s degree or higher in Chemical Dependency, Counseling, Social Work, Psychology, Human Services, or a related field
  • Two to four years of experience in behavioral healthcare, specifically addictions or a related field
  • Minimum of Alcohol and Drug Trainee (ADT) status or one of the following Maryland credentials:
    • Licensed Graduate Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LGADC)
    • Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC)
    • Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW)
    • Certified Associate Counselor–Alcohol and Drug (CAC-AD)
    • Certified Supervised Counselor–Alcohol and Drug (CSC-AD)
  • Strong counseling, assessment, and documentation skills
  • Ability to effectively engage clients with substance use and mental health concerns
  • Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple responsibilities
  • Commitment to providing compassionate, client-centered care

Bonus Points

  • Experience working with women and families in recovery
  • Knowledge of trauma-informed care practices
  • Strong ability to multitask
  • Ability to complete documentation accurately and within required timelines

What You’ll Get: Outstanding Benefits

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k), life insurance, and supplemental insurance options
  • Generous PTO, paid vacation, and paid holidays
  • PTO includes Vacation, Personal, and Sick time—no more using vacation days when you’re sick
  • Robust tuition reimbursement and continuing education support
  • License and certification renewal reimbursement—we cover the cost
  • Company-paid CEUs
  • Supportive, mission-driven workplace with clear opportunities for growth
  • An organization deeply committed to work-life balance

Benefits:

  • 401(k) • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Professional development assistance
  • Tuition reimbursement

Work Location: In person