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Addiction Support Worker Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

UHS

OUTPATIENT CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER

Torrance, CA · On-site

$69K - $103K/yr

Certified addiction counselor preffered . Del Amo Behavioral Health System, a subsidiary of UHS ... UHS subsidiaries are equal opportunity employers and as such, openly support and fully commit to ...

UHS

OUTPATIENT CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER

Torrance, CA

Certified addiction counselor preffered . Del Amo Behavioral Health System, a subsidiary of UHS ... UHS subsidiaries are equal opportunity employers and as such, openly support and fully commit to ...

Acadia Healthcare

Social Worker I - PRN

Indio, CA

$38/hr

Facilitate education, process groups, support groups and referrals as requested. * Demonstrate a ... Licensed Social Worker (LSW), Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC), Certified Addictions Counselor ...

Acadia Healthcare

Social Worker I - PRN

Indio, CA · On-site

$38/hr

Facilitate education, process groups, support groups and referrals as requested. * Demonstrate a ... Licensed Social Worker (LSW), Licensed Associate Counselor (LAC), Certified Addictions Counselor ...

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Addiction Support Worker information

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How much do addiction support worker jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 3, 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.

Addiction Support Worker jobs near you
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.

Psychiatry SUD Division Chief - Lead Veteran Addiction Care

Department of Veterans Affairs

Gardena, CA • On-site

$285K - $335K/yr

Other

Medical, Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 14 days ago

U.S. Department Of Veterans Affairs rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 672 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

50th of 295 rated public sector bodies

Job description

Join Our Interdisciplinary Team as the Psychiatry SUD Division Chief

  • Lead and mentor a talented, multidisciplinary care team advancing evidence-based substance use disorder (SUD) care for Veterans.
  • Full-time leadership role supporting clinical practice, program administration, and teaching.
  • Oversee administrative and programmatic resources for various SUD/Opioid Treatment Program (OTP) sections across multiple GLA sites.
  • Deliver and supervise comprehensive psychiatric evaluations and evidence-based treatments-including diagnostic assessments, psychotherapy, medication management, and medication-assisted treatment.
  • Provide care for Veterans with a broad spectrum of mental health and substance use conditions, including complex co-occurring disorders.
  • Collaborate closely with psychologists, social workers, addiction therapists, and nursing professionals.
  • Support, supervise, mentor psychiatry trainees; contribute to renowned residency/fellowship programs.
  • Partner with prestigious academic institutions in a teaching- and research-rich environment.
  • Participate in specialized programs such as OTP and intensive outpatient care; contribute to multidisciplinary consultation and recovery-focused care models.
  • Ensure thorough, compliant clinical documentation and adherence to VA and regulatory standards.
  • Participate in ongoing coordination and development of SUD services impacting access to mental health care for Veterans throughout the GLA catchment area.
  • Ideal for candidates passionate about innovative addiction psychiatry, clinical leadership, and improving the lives of Veterans facing co-occurring mental health and substance use challenges.

Work Schedule: Full-time / On-site

Qualifications:

  • Must be a U.S. Citizen
  • Doctor of Medicine or equivalent degree in allopathic or osteopathic medicine
  • Current, full, and unrestricted license
  • Completion of residency in an accredited core specialty
  • Board Certified or Board Eligible
  • Preferred minimum of 5 years of practice but not required
  • Addiction Medicine Fellowship or Addiction Board Certification

Benefits and Features:

  • Salary Range: $285,000-$335,000
  • PTO: 50-55 days of PTO annually (26/13 days of annual/sick leave, 11 holidays,)
  • Malpractice: Free liability protection with tail coverage provided.
  • Dental, Medical, Life Insurance, Pension, TSP (401K) with 5% match, Survivor Benefits
  • Up to $1,000 or more annually and up to 5 days paid absence for CME
  • Education Debt Reduction Program (EDRP) up to $200,000 in qualified loan reimbursement
  • Service without strings: No employment contracts or restrictive covenants
  • Opportunity for UCLA Geffen School of Medicine Faculty appointment
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program

This posting represents the major duties, responsibilities, and authorities of this job, and is not intended to be a complete list of all tasks and functions.

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