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Addiction Jobs in Alberta (NOW HIRING)

Provide educational presentations on topics related to health, addiction, and homelessness * Participate in regular team meetings and program evaluation activities * Role model Alpha House's values ...

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Addiction information

See Alberta salary details

$23.5K

$93.7K

$304K

How much do addiction jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for addiction in Alberta is $93,712.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,500.00 and $110,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Addiction vs Substance Abuse Counselor?

AspectAddictionSubstance Abuse Counselor
CredentialsOften requires certification or licensing in addiction counselingTypically requires certification or licensure in substance abuse counseling
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, rehab centers, community health programsRehab centers, outpatient clinics, community agencies
Industry UsageUsed broadly to describe the condition and field of treatmentRefers specifically to professionals providing counseling services

While 'Addiction' describes the condition involving dependency on substances or behaviors, a 'Substance Abuse Counselor' is a professional who provides therapy and support to individuals struggling with substance-related issues. Understanding this distinction helps clarify whether you're seeking information about the condition or the specialists who treat it.

What is the highest paid addiction counselor?

The highest paid addiction counselors typically work in specialized settings such as private clinics or healthcare organizations and may earn salaries exceeding $70,000 annually. Advanced certifications, extensive experience, and additional skills like counseling or therapy licenses can contribute to higher earnings in this field.

What are some common challenges faced by addiction counselors in their daily work, and how can these be managed?

Addiction counselors often encounter challenges such as managing client relapses, addressing co-occurring mental health issues, and navigating the emotional impact of clients' struggles. To manage these, counselors typically rely on strong support systems within multidisciplinary teams, ongoing professional supervision, and continuous professional development. Building resilience and self-care strategies are also essential to prevent burnout and maintain effectiveness in supporting clients on their recovery journey.

What are addiction counselors?

Addiction counselors are professionals who help individuals struggling with substance use disorders or other types of addiction. They provide support, guidance, and treatment plans tailored to each client's unique needs, often using a combination of counseling techniques and behavioral therapies. Addiction counselors work in a variety of settings, including rehabilitation centers, hospitals, and private practices, and may collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive care. Their goal is to help clients achieve and maintain recovery, improve their mental health, and rebuild their lives.

What are coping skills for addiction?

Addiction counselors and professionals recommend coping skills such as developing healthy routines, practicing mindfulness and stress management techniques, and seeking social support to manage cravings and prevent relapse. These skills are often incorporated into treatment plans and may involve cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and relapse prevention strategies.

What careers have the highest substance abuse rates?

Careers in the addiction treatment field, such as substance abuse counselors and addiction specialists, often have higher substance abuse rates due to job-related stress and exposure to substance use environments. Additionally, jobs in the hospitality, construction, and food service industries tend to report higher substance abuse prevalence among employees. These roles may involve irregular hours, high stress, and access to substances, increasing the risk of misuse.

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

To thrive as an Addiction Counselor, you need a solid understanding of substance abuse disorders, counseling techniques, and typically a relevant degree with state licensure or certification. Familiarity with Electronic Health Records (EHRs), clinical assessment tools, and evidence-based treatment models like CBT or motivational interviewing is essential. Outstanding interpersonal skills, empathy, and strong communication abilities help build trust and motivate clients through recovery. These skills and qualifications are crucial for effectively supporting individuals struggling with addiction and guiding them toward lasting change.

What jobs can recovering addicts do?

Recovering addicts can work in a variety of roles depending on their skills, experience, and any required certifications. Common options include entry-level positions in retail, food service, customer service, and administrative roles, often with flexible schedules or supportive environments. It is important to disclose any legal or employment restrictions related to substance use when applying for jobs.
What are the most commonly searched types of Addiction jobs in Alberta? The most popular types of Addiction jobs in Alberta are:
What are popular job titles related to Addiction jobs in Alberta? For Addiction jobs in Alberta, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Addiction jobs in Alberta look for? The top searched job categories for Addiction jobs in Alberta are:
What cities in Alberta are hiring for Addiction jobs? Cities in Alberta with the most Addiction job openings:

Mental Health & Addictions Counsellor - 020-2026

Fort McKay First Nation

Fort Mcmurray, AB

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

ABOUT THE ROLE

The Mental Health and Addictions Counsellor will provide quality, client focused, recovery based, and culturally appropriate counselling services and support for community members, families and groups within the Fort McKay community. The Counsellor will provide intake, assessments, treatment plans, case management, crisis intervention, education and referral services for clients and their families. The work performed is specialized and involves applying psychological knowledge and theories to a variety of situations. Often the work is performed in multi-disciplinary teams to develop and implement care or treatment or behaviour support plans. Counsellors require active registration with the applicable Alberta regulatory college or professional association. This position is a one-year leave replacement.


KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Work withat risk populations including those with complex needs, mental health challenges, and substance use disorders; by providing addictions, life skills and trauma counselling.
  • Utilize a variety of psychosocial interventions and treatment modalities (individual, family, group) to children and adolescents experiencing significant mental health difficulties.
  • Complete intakes, assessments and make decisions around treatment goals with the client.
  • Review, evaluate, and document client progress and make changes to treatment plan, as necessary.
  • Provide pre-care and after-care planning and support for clients attending Addictions treatment.
  • Identify and develop safety plans for high-risk clients, manage and support clients to receive emergency services if necessary.
  • Establish care plans, goal setting and identify needs as they pertain to holistic wellness.
  • Work as a part of an interdisciplinary team of professionals to case manage, discuss appropriate therapeutic strategies and share information as required.
  • Provide one on one counselling and run groups that support enhanced person-centered wellness, inclusive of sober living, relapse prevention, living skills, and other supportive measures.
  • Work with other members of the Mental Health and Addictions team in offering services and support for clients.
  • Work with Elders to support the cultural and spiritual needs of the clients, as well as seek out and encourage cultural activities that will support sobriety and overall wellness.
  • Build relationships with services in the Wood Buffalo region to assist clients with additional services.
  • Provide consistent communication with the direct supervisor.
  • Provide monthly statistical data to the direct supervisor.
  • Maintain records and files in a clinical and professional manner.
  • Perform other related duties as required.


KEY REQUIREMENTS

  • Bachelor's degree in psychology, addictions, health promotion, social work or related human services field is required.
  • Active registration with the applicable regulatory college or professional association is required.
  • Three (3) years of related experience in working with at risk groups and supporting healthy living and life skills.
  • Three (3) years of experience in addictions services and counselling.
  • Experience working in a First Nations community setting including knowledge of First Nations culture, traditions and values considered an asset
  • Valid class 5 Driver's License & Clean Driver's Abstract
  • A clean criminal record and vulnerable sector check is required
  • Successful candidate will be required to live in (or relocate to) Fort McMurray, Alberta


WHY APPLY?
At Fort McKay, we value the dedication of our employees, which is why we give so much in return. In addition to Competitive Pay, we also offer the following;

  • A healthy work-life balance with an on-site fitness centre
  • Transportation to and from work
  • The opportunity to work with a community that is committed to protecting its traditional lands
  • Shift: Monday - Thursday - 8:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. Friday - 8:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.


HOW TO APPLY:
ONLINE:https://fortmckayfirstnation2.applytojob.com/apply
You can also check us out on social media -> Facebook & LinkedIn
Closing Date: Open Until Filled

Please ensure you indicate the Competition #020-2026


*Preference will be given to qualified applicants of Indigenous ancestry in any hiring decision, please declare your Indigenous status in your application.