1

Addiction Studies Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Certified Addiction Counselor Community Bridges, Inc. (CBI) is an integrated behavioral healthcare ... studies, criminal justice, health education, or mental health. Bachelor's degree or higher ...

Certified Addiction Counselor Community Bridges, Inc. (CBI) is an integrated behavioral healthcare ... studies, criminal justice, health education, or mental health. Bachelor's degree or higher ...

Certified Addiction Counselor Community Bridges, Inc. (CBI) is an integrated behavioral healthcare ... studies, criminal justice, health education, or mental health. Bachelor's degree or higher ...

Recovery Guide

Washington, DC · On-site

$50K - $60K/yr

The study involves connecting patients seeking treatment for opioid use disorder with a Recovery ... The Recovery Guide will work closely with other team members including addiction medicine ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Addiction Studies information

See Washington salary details

$41.9K

$60K

$79.8K

How much do addiction studies jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average yearly pay for addiction studies in Washington is $60,026.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,100.00 and $63,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an addiction studies job?

An Addiction Studies job involves working in roles that focus on preventing, treating, and understanding substance use disorders and addictive behaviors. Professionals in this field may work as counselors, case managers, educators, or community outreach specialists. They provide support, therapy, and resources to individuals struggling with addiction, often in rehabilitation centers, hospitals, or social service agencies. Many positions require specialized training or certifications in addiction counseling or behavioral health.

What are the typical responsibilities and challenges of working in addiction studies?

Professionals in Addiction Studies often conduct assessments, develop treatment plans, lead support groups, and provide one-on-one counseling for individuals struggling with substance use disorders. A common challenge in this field is managing complex cases where clients may face co-occurring mental health issues or social barriers to recovery. The work environment can be emotionally demanding but is also highly rewarding, as you play a direct role in improving lives. These roles frequently involve collaborating with healthcare providers, social services, and families to ensure comprehensive care and support for clients.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in addiction studies, and why are they important?

To thrive in Addiction Studies, a strong background in psychology, counseling, or social work—often paired with relevant degrees or certifications like Certified Addiction Counselor (CAC)—is fundamental. Familiarity with case management systems, addiction assessment tools, and current evidence-based intervention methods is also highly valued. Strong communication, cultural competence, and emotional resilience set exceptional candidates apart. These skills ensure professionals can effectively support clients, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and respond empathetically to those facing substance use challenges.

How to start a career in addiction studies?

To start a career in addiction studies, pursue relevant education such as a bachelor's or master's degree in addiction counseling, social work, psychology, or a related field. Gaining certification, like Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), and developing strong interpersonal skills are essential for working with clients in treatment settings.

Is an addiction studies degree worth it?

An addiction studies degree prepares individuals for roles such as addiction counselor or treatment specialist, often requiring knowledge of counseling techniques and mental health assessment. The degree can lead to employment in healthcare, social services, or community programs, with job prospects influenced by certification and experience. It provides foundational skills for working with individuals struggling with substance use and behavioral addictions.

What can I do with a bachelor's in addiction studies?

A bachelor's in addiction studies prepares individuals for roles such as addiction counselor, case manager, or prevention specialist, often requiring strong communication and counseling skills. Graduates may work in treatment centers, community organizations, or healthcare settings, and some positions may require certification or licensure depending on the state or organization.

Where do addiction counselors make the most money?

Addiction counselors tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for mental health services. Salaries are also influenced by experience, certifications, and work setting, such as private clinics or hospitals, which often offer higher pay compared to community agencies.

What cities in Washington are hiring for Addiction Studies jobs?

Cities in Washington with the most Addiction Studies job openings:

Infographic showing various Addiction Studies job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 7% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 15% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $60,026 per year, or $28.9 per hour.

Certified Addiction Counselor II

Washington, DC • On-site

PRESTIGE HEALTHCARE RESOURCES INC
1 - 10 employees

Full-time

Posted 12 days ago


Job description

POSITION SUMMARY

Under the supervision of the Clinical Supervisor, the Certified Addiction Counselor II (CAC II) provides frontline clinical services to clients participating in the Outpatient Treatment Program (OTP) programs. The CAC II is responsible for facilitating structured therapeutic groups, providing individual client support, monitoring client progress, maintaining accurate and timely clinical documentation, and supporting treatment and recovery goals.

The CAC II demonstrates a working knowledge of substance use disorders, co-occurring mental health conditions, recovery-oriented practices, and addiction treatment principles. All services and documentation must be provided in accordance with applicable District of Columbia (DC) laws and regulations, Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) requirements, CARF standards, and organizational policies and procedures.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
  • Maintains an assigned caseload in accordance with applicable District of Columbia regulations, DBH requirements, CARF standards, and organizational policies.
  • Facilitates a 3-hour therapeutic or psychoeducational group four (4) days per week, or as assigned.
  • Completes and submits accurate group documentation and progress notes within 24 hours of service delivery.
  • Completes Treatment Plan Updates every 30 days, or as otherwise required by applicable regulations and program standards.
  • Provides individual counseling and/or case management services as assigned and within the scope of CAC II certification.
  • Completes at least two (2) monthly individual sessions with each assigned consumer, or as required by the consumer's treatment plan.
  • Makes weekly contact with each assigned consumer to monitor progress, identify barriers to treatment, and support continued engagement in services.
  • Develops and contributes to aftercare and discharge plans for consumers completing treatment or being discharged for other reasons.
  • Documents consumer progress, interventions, referrals, and other clinical activities accurately and timely in the electronic health record.
  • Participates in weekly clinical supervision and incorporates supervisory feedback into clinical practice.
  • Collaborates with the interdisciplinary treatment team regarding consumer needs, treatment progress, risk factors, referrals, and discharge planning.
  • Provides education regarding substance use, recovery, relapse prevention, coping skills, and available community resources.
  • Recognizes and appropriately responds to changes in consumer presentation, including behavioral health, substance use, and safety concerns, and escalates concerns according to established protocols.
  • Maintains confidentiality and complies with applicable privacy and consumer rights requirements.
  • Participates in staff meetings, case conferences, trainings, quality improvement activities, and other program activities as assigned.
  • Completes all required documentation and duties within the scheduled work week and established regulatory timeframes.
  • Performs other duties consistent with the position and scope of certification as assigned.
EXPERIENCE AND QUALIFICATIONS
  • High school diploma or equivalent required. An Associate's or Bachelor's degree in Human Services, Behavioral Health, Psychology, Social Work, Counseling, Addiction Studies, or a related field is preferred.
  • CAC II certification or eligibility for CAC II certification in accordance with applicable District of Columbia requirements.
  • Minimum of two (2) years of experience providing behavioral health, substance use disorder, community support, counseling, case management, or related human services.
  • Demonstrated knowledge of substance use disorders, co-occurring disorders, recovery principles, and community-based behavioral health services.
  • Ability to provide services within the scope of practice and certification requirements applicable in the District of Columbia.
  • Must maintain all required certifications, registrations, training, and continuing education necessary for the position.
  • Demonstrates a professional, respectful, trauma-informed, and recovery-oriented approach when interacting with consumers, families, staff, visitors, and community partners.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to maintain timely, accurate, and objective clinical documentation.
  • Proficient computer skills, including Microsoft Outlook, Microsoft Office, electronic health records, and other standard software applications.
  • Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary clinical team.
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States.
CORE COMPETENCIES
  1. Simplify Complex Issues – Breaks down complex clinical, operational, and consumer-related concerns into manageable steps while identifying priorities that support effective treatment and service delivery.
  2. Collaborate Effectively – Communicates clearly with consumers, families, supervisors, and interdisciplinary team members while contributing to coordinated and person-centered care.
  3. Anticipate Needs and Challenges – Recognizes emerging consumer needs, treatment barriers, relapse risks, and service gaps and takes appropriate action or seeks supervisory support.
  4. Systemize Processes – Follows established clinical workflows, documentation standards, treatment protocols, and regulatory requirements to ensure consistent and compliant service delivery.
  5. Promote Accountability and Growth – Takes ownership of assigned responsibilities, maintains professional standards, seeks feedback and supervision, and contributes to a culture of continuous improvement and recovery-oriented care.
AAP/EEO STATEMENT

It is the policy of Prestige Healthcare Resources, Inc. to provide equal employment opportunity (EEO) to all persons regardless of age, color, national origin, citizenship status, physical or mental disability, race, religion, creed, gender, sex, sexual orientation