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Addiction Nursing Jobs in Georgia (NOW HIRING)

At least one year of clinical nursing experience, preferably in detoxification, addiction treatment, or psychiatric care. * Basic Life Support (BLS) certification. * Strong knowledge of withdrawal ...

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Addiction Nursing information

See Georgia salary details

$46.9K

$91.8K

$144K

How much do addiction nursing jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 10, 2026, the average yearly pay for addiction nursing in Georgia is $91,764.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $70,100.00 and $106,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an addiction nurse, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Addiction Nurse, you need a solid foundation in nursing practice, substance abuse assessment, and mental health care, typically supported by an RN license and specialized training in addiction medicine. Familiarity with electronic health records (EHRs), medication-assisted treatment protocols, and relevant certifications such as Certified Addictions Registered Nurse (CARN) is often required. Compassion, strong communication, and resilience are vital soft skills for building trust with patients and supporting their recovery journeys. These skills and qualifications are crucial for delivering effective, empathetic care and promoting positive outcomes in the challenging field of addiction treatment.

What are some common challenges faced by addiction nurses, and how can they effectively manage them?

Addiction nurses frequently encounter emotionally charged situations, including supporting patients through withdrawal symptoms and relapse. Managing compassion fatigue and maintaining clear professional boundaries can be challenging but is essential for providing consistent care. Effective strategies include participating in regular debriefings with colleagues, seeking supervision when needed, and engaging in ongoing professional development related to trauma-informed care. Building strong interdisciplinary relationships with counselors, social workers, and physicians also helps ensure comprehensive support for patients and reduces the burden on individual nurses.

What is addiction nursing?

Addiction nursing is a specialized field of nursing focused on caring for individuals who are struggling with substance use disorders or behavioral addictions. Addiction nurses provide support, education, and treatment to patients as they undergo detoxification, rehabilitation, and recovery. These nurses work as part of multidisciplinary teams in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and community health settings. Their responsibilities include administering medications, monitoring withdrawal symptoms, offering counseling, and helping patients develop strategies for long-term recovery.

What is the difference between Addiction Nursing vs Substance Abuse Counselor?

AspectAddiction NursingSubstance Abuse Counselor
Required CredentialsRN license, certification in addiction nursing (e.g., ANCC)State certification or licensure as a counselor, often with a CAC or similar credential
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, detox centers, inpatient and outpatient settingsRehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, community programs
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, healthcare facilities, specialized addiction treatment unitsCommunity health agencies, private practices, rehab centers

While both roles focus on supporting individuals with substance use issues, Addiction Nurses provide medical care, administer medications, and monitor health in clinical settings. Substance Abuse Counselors primarily offer therapy, counseling, and behavioral interventions in community or outpatient environments. Both are vital in addiction treatment but serve different functions within the healthcare system.

What job categories do people searching Addiction Nursing jobs in Georgia look for? The top searched job categories for Addiction Nursing jobs in Georgia are:
What cities in Georgia are hiring for Addiction Nursing jobs? Cities in Georgia with the most Addiction Nursing job openings:
Infographic showing various Addiction Nursing job openings in Georgia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 59% Full Time, 18% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 19% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $91,764 per year, or $44.1 per hour.

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Ascensa Health

Atlanta, GA โ€ข On-site

$28 - $30/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 5 days ago


Job description

About the Role:

As a Detox Nurse, you will play a critical role in providing compassionate and comprehensive care to patients undergoing detoxification from substances. Your primary objective will be to ensure patient safety and comfort throughout the detox process by closely monitoring vital signs, administering medications, and managing withdrawal symptoms. This role demands a strong commitment to patient advocacy, education, and support to promote successful recovery outcomes. Ultimately, your work will contribute to improving patients' health and well-being during a vulnerable and challenging phase of their treatment journey.

Ascensa Health is currently seeking Full Time (Mon-Fri 3p-11p) Part Time ( weekends) and Full time Admissions/ Health Services (Mon- Fri 8a-4p).

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Current and valid Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) license in the Georgia.
  • At least one year of clinical nursing experience, preferably in detoxification, addiction treatment, or psychiatric care.
  • Basic Life Support (BLS) certification.
  • Strong knowledge of withdrawal symptoms, medication protocols, and patient safety standards.
  • Ability to work with flexibility to accommodate patient needs.
  • Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems.


Responsibilities:

  • Continuously monitor physical and mental health status during detoxification.
  • Administer prescribed medications and treatments accurately while observing for adverse reactions or complications.
  • Document patient progress, vital signs, and any changes in condition in compliance with healthcare regulations and facility policies.
  • Provide education to patients about the detox process, withdrawal symptoms, and coping strategies.
  • Collaborate with healthcare team members to adjust care plans as needed and facilitate smooth transitions to subsequent phases of treatment.

Skills:

The required skills enable the Detox Nurse to perform accurate patient assessments, administer medications safely, and respond promptly to emergencies, ensuring patient safety throughout the detox process. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential for educating patients and families, providing emotional support, and collaborating effectively with multidisciplinary teams. Preferred skills such as addiction nursing certification and trauma-informed care enhance the nurse's ability to address complex patient needs with empathy and specialized knowledge. Proficiency with electronic health records facilitates precise documentation and coordination of care. Together, these skills ensure the nurse can deliver high-quality, patient-centered care in a dynamic and often challenging clinical environment.


EOE/ Drug Free Workplace


Ascensa Health logo

About Ascensa Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Ascensa Health, formerly known as St. Jude's Recovery Center, has helped to rebuild the lives of individuals who suffer from the disease of addiction and co occurring mental health disorders since 1962. Based in Metro Atlanta, Ascensa Health provides behavioral health care for addiction and co-occurring mental health disorders that sustains recovery and returns individuals to their families and communities. Our programs and services are based on the belief that addiction is a disease. We focus on treating the whole person and we support people over a lifetime of recovery. Ascensa Health is open to anyone seeking treatment for addiction and co occurring mental health disorders. Most people who come to Ascensa Health are low income, experiencing homelessness, do not have health insurance and or cannot afford life saving treatment.

Industry

Non-profits

Company size

51 - 200 Employees

Headquarters location

Atlanta, GA, US

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