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Addictions Counselor Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

ADDICTIONS COUNSELOR

Petersburg, VA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Responsibilities OTP Counselor/ Therapist- Outpatient Horizon Health is seeking a certified therapist for our opioid treatment center in Petersburg, VA. The Opioid Treatment Program (OTP) Therapist ...

ADDICTIONS COUNSELOR

Petersburg, VA

$44K - $59K/yr

Counseling services include individual, group, and family counseling. Responsibilities: * Acts as primary counselor to address substance use disorders. * Develops individualized, PCP and its ongoing ...

The Counselor Two provides treatment, counseling, and support to assist clients in their recovery from addictions, such as alcoholism, drug addiction, or mental health disorders, assists with ...

The Counselor One provides treatment and support to assist clients in their recovery from addictions, such as alcoholism, drug addiction, or mental health disorders, assists with modifying problem ...

The Lead Counselor provides treatment, counseling, and support to assist clients in their recovery from addictions, such as alcoholism, drug addiction, or mental health disorders, assists with ...

$20.50 - $27.50/hr

The Counselor Two provides treatment, counseling, and support to assist clients in their recovery from addictions, such as alcoholism, drug addiction, or mental health disorders, assists with ...

The Counselor Two provides treatment, counseling, and support to assist clients in their recovery from addictions, such as alcoholism, drug addiction, or mental health disorders, assists with ...

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Showing results 1-20

Addictions Counselor information

See Virginia salary details

$32.2K

$53.8K

$70.4K

How much do addictions counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for addictions counselor in Virginia is $53,761.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,100.00 and $60,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an addictions counselor?

Addictions Counselors are trained professionals who help individuals overcome substance abuse and behavioral addictions. They assess clients’ needs, develop treatment plans, provide counseling, and support recovery efforts. Addictions Counselors may work in various settings, such as rehabilitation centers, hospitals, or private practices. Their role also includes educating families and communities about addiction and supporting relapse prevention.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an addictions counselor?

To thrive as an Addictions Counselor, you need a solid background in psychology or social work, typically supported by a relevant degree and state licensure or certification. Familiarity with counseling software, electronic health records, and assessment tools is often required. Exceptional active listening, empathy, and strong communication skills help build trust and motivate clients through recovery. These abilities are crucial for providing effective support, ensuring ethical treatment, and fostering positive outcomes for individuals overcoming addiction.

What are common challenges addictions counselors face when working with clients, and how can they effectively address them?

Addictions Counselors often encounter challenges such as client relapse, resistance to change, and emotional burnout. Building strong rapport and trust with clients is crucial to encourage openness and commitment to recovery. Counselors can address these challenges by employing evidence-based techniques like motivational interviewing, maintaining professional boundaries, and actively participating in supervision or peer support networks. Self-care and ongoing professional development also play important roles in managing stress and maintaining effectiveness in this rewarding, yet demanding, field.

What is the difference between Addictions Counselor vs Substance Abuse Counselor?

AspectAddictions CounselorSubstance Abuse Counselor
CredentialsOften requires certification or licensure (e.g., CADC)Similar certifications, often overlapping with addictions counselors
Work EnvironmentClinics, rehab centers, hospitalsRehab facilities, outpatient clinics, community health centers
Industry UsageCommonly used term for professionals treating addictionOften used interchangeably, but sometimes more focused on substance abuse

Both Addictions Counselors and Substance Abuse Counselors typically hold similar certifications and work in similar environments. The terms are often used interchangeably, but 'Addictions Counselor' may encompass a broader scope of addiction issues beyond just substances. Understanding these nuances can help in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

Is addiction counseling a good career?

Addictions counseling is a rewarding career that involves helping individuals recover from substance use and behavioral issues. It typically requires relevant education, certification, and strong interpersonal skills, with job growth driven by increasing awareness of mental health and addiction treatment needs.

Is it hard to be an addictions counselor?

Being an addictions counselor can be challenging due to the emotional nature of the work and the need for strong interpersonal skills. It often requires specialized training, certification, and the ability to handle difficult situations with empathy and professionalism.

What degree is best for addictions counseling?

Addictions counselors typically need at least a bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, counseling, or a related field. Many employers prefer or require a master's degree in counseling or a similar discipline, along with relevant certifications or licensure such as the Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC). Practical experience and strong interpersonal skills are also important for success in this role.

Where do addictions counselors make the most money?

Addictions counselors tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for mental health services, such as urban areas or states with well-funded healthcare systems. Salaries can also increase with advanced certifications, experience, and working in private practice or specialized treatment centers.

What are the most commonly searched types of Addictions Counselor jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Addictions Counselor jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Addictions Counselor jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Addictions Counselor job openings:

Infographic showing various Addictions Counselor job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $53,761 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

ADDICTIONS COUNSELOR

Petersburg, VA • On-site


UHS
Health Care and Social Assistance • 10K+ employees

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 254 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

453rd of 893 rated healthcare providers

People enjoy working here

Recommended by students

Respectful managers


$25 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Re-posted 28 days ago


Job description

Responsibilities
OTP Counselor/ Therapist- Outpatient
Horizon Health is seeking a certified therapist for our opioid treatment center in Petersburg, VA. The Opioid Treatment Program (OTP) Therapist/ Counselor is responsible for providing counseling, educational, and referral services to enrolled patients and their families as defined by OTP protocols. Counseling services include individual, group, and family counseling.
Responsibilities:
  • Acts as primary counselor to address substance use disorders.
  • Develops individualized, PCP and its ongoing revisions in coordination with the Client and ensures its implementation.
  • Provides ongoing assessment and reassessment of the Client based on their PCP and goals.
  • Provides individual and group counseling based on the Client's individualized, PCP.
  • Provides crisis interventions, when clinically appropriate.
  • Provides substance use, health and community services education.
  • Provides coordination and consultation with medical, clinical, familial, and ancillary relevant parties with Client consent.
  • Ensures linkage to the most clinically appropriate and effective services along with arranging psychological and psychiatric evaluations.
  • Provide appropriate linkage and referrals for recovery services and supports.
  • Informs the Client about benefits, community resources, and services.
  • Advocates for and assists the Client in accessing benefits and services.
  • Monitors and documents the status of the Client's progress and the effectiveness of the strategies and interventions outlined in the PCP.
  • Maintains accurate service notes and documentation for all interventions provided; and
  • Participates in staff meetings and treatment team meetings.
  • Other duties as assigned.
Benefit Highlights:
  • Competitive Compensation
  • Excellent Medical, Dental, Vision, and Prescription Drug Plan
  • 401(K) with company match and discounted stock plan
  • Long and Short-term Disability
  • Flexible Spending Accounts; Healthcare Savings Account
  • Life Insurance
  • Career development opportunities within the company
  • Tuition Assistance
  • Rewarding work environment - Enjoy going to work everyday!
About Universal Health Services
One of the nation's largest and most respected providers of hospital and healthcare services, Universal Health Services, Inc. (UHS) has built an impressive record of achievement and performance. During the year, UHS was again recognized as one of the World's Most Admired Companies by Fortune; and listed in Forbes ranking of America's Largest Public Companies. Operating acute care hospitals, behavioral health facilities, outpatient facilities and ambulatory care access points, an insurance offering, a physician network and various related services located all over the U.S. States, Washington, D.C., Puerto Rico and the United Kingdom. www.uhs.com
For more information on the position, email Courtney Eble, Healthcare recruiter at courtney.eble@horizonhealth.com
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree required.
  • LCAS or LCAS-A, LCSW or LCSW-A, LMHC or LMHC-A, or CSAC, LPC, or LP required
EOE
EEO Statement
All UHS subsidiaries are committed to providing an environment of mutual respect where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and teammates. UHS subsidiaries are equal opportunity employers and as such, openly support and fully commit to recruitment, selection, placement, promotion and compensation of individuals without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), genetic information, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
We believe that diversity and inclusion among our teammates is critical to our success.
Notice
At UHS and all our subsidiaries, our Human Resources departments and recruiters are here to help prospective candidates by matching skillset and experience with the best possible career path at UHS and our subsidiaries. We take pride in creating a highly efficient and best in class candidate experience. During the recruitment process, no recruiter or employee will request financial or personal information (Social Security Number, credit card or bank information, etc.) from you via email. The recruiters will not email you from a public webmail client like Hotmail, Gmail, Yahoo Mail, etc. If you are suspicious of a job posting or job-related email mentioning UHS or its subsidiaries, let us know by contacting us at: https://uhs.alertline.com or 1-800-852-3449 .

Universal Health Services logo

About Universal Health Services

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Universal Health Services (UHS) is a major player in the healthcare industry, based in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, U.S. Founded in 1978, UHS offers hospital and healthcare services. Their diverse services range from acute care hospitals, behavioral health facilities and ambulatory centers nationwide. The company's mission of enhancing the health and well-being of their patients is reflected in their commitment to 'Helping Individuals Live Longer, Healthier and Happier Lives'. Universal Health Services' consistent growth and success in their industry have been recognized on numerous occasions, including being ranked amongst the Fortune 500 list of largest companies.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

King of Prussia, PA, US


What Universal Health Services employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

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