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Addiction Support Worker Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

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This role is critical in supporting clients through the recovery process while maintaining strict ... Provide psychoeducation on addiction, relapse prevention, mental health, and life skills. * Monitor ...

Job Overview We are seeking a compassionate and dedicated Social Worker to join our team. The ideal ... addiction counseling sessions for individuals struggling with substance use disorders. * Support ...

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Addiction Support Worker information

See California salary details

$8

$17

$24

How much do addiction support worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for addiction support worker in California is $17.06, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.95 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an addiction support worker do?

An Addiction Support Worker assists individuals struggling with substance abuse or addiction by providing emotional support, guidance, and practical help. They work closely with clients to develop coping strategies, access treatment programs, and connect with community resources. Their duties may include conducting assessments, facilitating group sessions, supporting clients through recovery plans, and advocating for their needs. Addiction Support Workers often collaborate with healthcare professionals, social workers, and families to promote recovery and well-being.

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

To thrive as an Addiction Support Worker, you need a background in counseling, social work, or psychology, often supported by a relevant diploma, degree, or certification in addiction studies. Familiarity with case management systems, harm reduction models, and crisis intervention tools is typically required. Strong communication, empathy, and resilience are vital soft skills for building trust and supporting individuals through challenging situations. These skills and qualities are crucial for effectively guiding clients toward recovery, ensuring safety, and fostering positive outcomes.

What are some common challenges addiction support workers face when supporting clients in recovery, and how can they effectively address them?

Addiction Support Workers often encounter challenges such as client relapse, resistance to treatment, and complex co-occurring mental health issues. Building trust and maintaining open, non-judgmental communication are vital for helping clients feel supported and understood. Effective workers collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams—including counselors, healthcare professionals, and social workers—to develop individualized care plans and ensure clients have access to comprehensive support. Ongoing professional development and self-care are also important for managing the emotional demands of the role.

What is the difference between Addiction Support Worker vs Counsellor?

AspectAddiction Support WorkerCounsellor
Required CredentialsCertifications in addiction support, relevant trainingDegree in counselling, psychology, or social work
Work EnvironmentRehabilitation centers, community clinics, outreach programsPrivate practice, clinics, hospitals, schools
Employer & IndustryHealth and social services, addiction treatment centersHealthcare, mental health services, educational institutions
Common Search & ComparisonFocus on addiction recovery supportFocus on mental health and emotional well-being

While both roles support individuals with mental health challenges, Addiction Support Workers primarily assist those recovering from addiction through practical support and guidance. Counsellors provide therapeutic interventions for a broader range of mental health issues. The roles often overlap but differ mainly in their focus and required qualifications.

Infographic showing various Addiction Support Worker job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 77% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 3% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $35,491 per year, or $17.1 per hour.

Addiction Psychiatrist

Greenlife Healthcare Staffing

California City, CA • On-site

$230/hr

Full-time

Medical, Retirement

Re-posted 12 days ago


Job description

Addiction Psychiatrist - Kern County, CA (#R10039)

Must have board certification or board eligibility in Addiction Psychiatry

Greenlife Healthcare Staffing is seeking an Addiction Psychiatrist to fill an opening in the KernBHRS department that provides specialty behavioral health services to Medi-Cal recipients and uninsured, located in Kern County, CA.

Schedule of the Addiction Psychiatrist:

  • Full-Time (FTE)
    • Shift: 8-hour day
    • Weekly Hours: 40 hours
    • Activities: 14-16 medication management appointments, 4 evaluations, and 2-3 hours weekly fellowship supervision.
  • Part-Time: (PTE)
    • Shift: 4-6 hours
    • Weekly Hours: 20 - 30 hours
    • Activities: Proportional reduction in appointments (7-10 medication sessions, 2 evaluations).

Job Description:

Treating patients with co-occurring substance use disorders (SUD) and mental health conditions. This role integrates clinical care with academic leadership, as providers supervise Addiction Medicine Fellows and contribute to curriculum development for the UCLA-Kern Fellowship Program.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Conduct comprehensive psychiatric evaluations for patients with opioid use disorder, alcohol dependence, stimulant addiction, and polysubstance abuse, utilizing evidence-based assessment tools such as the ASAM Criteria.
  • Design and oversee medication-assisted treatment (MAT) plans, including prescriptions for buprenorphine, naltrexone, and extended-release injectables, while monitoring for drug interactions and adherence to DEA regulations.
  • Lead weekly case consultations with multidisciplinary teams (e.g., licensed clinical social workers, and peer support specialists) to address dual-diagnosis challenges in outpatient and crisis stabilization settings.
  • Serve as attending physician for Addiction Medicine Fellows, providing didactic training on topics such as motivational interviewing, relapse prevention strategies, and harm reduction models.
  • Conduct psychiatric evaluations for patients with substance use disorders.
  • Supervise Addiction Medicine Fellows, including curriculum development and trainee evaluations.
  • Prescribe and monitor medications (e.g., buprenorphine, naltrexone) via E-prescribe.

Greenlife Healthcare Staffing is a nationwide recruitment agency, matching both new grads and advanced practitioners to hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, multi-specialty groups, and private practices.

Requirements

Requirements of the Addiction Psychiatrist:

  • Must have an active California Medical License.
  • Requires participation as a supervising attending in the Addiction Fellowship Program.
  • Must have board certification or board eligibility in Addiction Psychiatry.
  • American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (ABPN) certified.

Benefits

Benefits of the Addiction Psychiatrist:

  • The salary for this position is $230/hr.
  • Sick days
  • Health insurance
  • Matching 401k

Greenlife Healthcare Staffing logo

About Greenlife Healthcare Staffing

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Greenlife Healthcare Staffing is a nationwide recruitment agency, matching both new grads and advanced practitioners to hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, multi-specialty groups, and private practices.

Industry

Recruiting and staffing services

Company size

11 - 50 Employees

Headquarters location

New York, NY, US

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