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Addictions Counselor Jobs in Atlanta, GA (NOW HIRING)

Addiction Counselor

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$44K - $59K/yr

Description The Addiction Counselor provides advanced clinical services as part of a ... Skilled in recognizing symptoms of addictions and mental health, according to DSM-5 criteria.

Addiction Counselor

Atlanta, GA

$44K - $59K/yr

Description The Addiction Counselor provides advanced clinical services as part of a ... Skilled in recognizing symptoms of addictions and mental health, according to DSM-5 criteria.

The Addiction Counselor provides advanced clinical services as part of a multidisciplinary ... Skilled in recognizing symptoms of addictions and mental health, according to DSM-5 criteria.

Addiction Counselor

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$44K - $59K/yr

Description The Addiction Counselor provides advanced clinical services as part of a ... Skilled in recognizing symptoms of addictions and mental health, according to DSM-5 criteria.

Certified Counselor

Canton, GA

$18.25 - $24.75/hr

Pinnacle Treatment Centers is a leading provider of comprehensive addiction treatment services ... As a Counselor, you will play a crucial role in the recovery journey of our patients. Pinnacle ...

Certified Counselor

Canton, GA · On-site

$18.25 - $24.75/hr

Pinnacle Treatment Centers is a leading provider of comprehensive addiction treatment services ... As a Counselor, you will play a crucial role in the recovery journey of our patients. Pinnacle ...

Behavioral Hlth Counselor 1

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$45K - $47K/yr

Certification as an addiction counselor from the Georgia Addiction Counselors Association (GACA) or equivalent certification. Credentialing (i.e., Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Certified ...

Behavioral Hlth Counselor 1

Morrow, GA · On-site

$45K - $47K/yr

Certification as an addiction counselor from the Georgia Addiction Counselors Association (GACA) or equivalent certification. Credentialing (i.e., Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Certified ...

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Showing results 1-20

Addictions Counselor information

See Atlanta, GA salary details

$31.3K

$52.1K

$68.3K

How much do addictions counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for addictions counselor in Atlanta, GA is $52,147.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,800.00 and $58,700.00 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.
Infographic showing various Addictions Counselor job openings in Atlanta, GA 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 $52,147 per year, or $25.1 per hour.

Addictions / Substance Abuse Counselor

Atlanta, GA

$18 - $25/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 29 days ago


Job description

The Addictions / Substance Abuse Counselor will provide ADSS and individualized one-on-one substance use recovery services and supports which build on the strengths and resilience of the individual


Minimum Qualifications, Education & Experience:

  • Must be certified in the state of Georgia as a CAADC, ICAADC, GCADC-III, MAC, GCADC-II, CADC-II, ICADC-II, or CAC-II. Opportunity to provide lower level clinicians supervision.
  • Current credential as a Substance Use Disorder/Addiction Counselor issued by a state, international or credentialing authority.
  • Person must have a minimum of 1-year experience working with clientele suffering from MH/SA issues and their families.
  • Under supervision of an appropriately licensed/credentialed professional upon employment, as needed.
  • Must maintain yearly professional liability insurance.
  • Certification education/degree/experience required:
    • Master's degree or above in human services with a clinical application (CAADC, ICAADC, GCADC-II) OR
    • Master's degree documentation of a minimum of 12 semester hours of graduate coursework in the area or 500 CE hours specifically in addictions OR Master's degree or higher in substance use disorders/addiction and/or counseling related subjects (MAC) OR
    • Bachelor's degree. Meet the legal standards set forth in GA Code 43- 10A-7 (GCADC-II, CADC-II, ICADC-II, CAC-II).


Duties Include:

  1. Provide individualized one-on-one substance use recovery services and supports which build on the strengths and resilience of the individual.
  2. Services limited to the provision of chemical dependency treatment.
  3. Responsible for staffing cases when assigned, when requested, and when you believe necessary.
  4. Provide designated services as dictated by active/current treatment plan of the individual in treatment.
  5. Render crisis protocol, as needed.
  6. Present cases in the treatment team meetings.
  7. Assist treatment team in revising goals.
  8. Evaluate and document consumer's progress towards their goals and make appropriate referrals.
  9. Provide crisis intervention, as needed.
  10. Adhere to all responsibilities identified by NBT Administrative personnel such as Clinical Director or Supervisor.

Teamwork & Communication:

  1. Demonstrate cooperation.
  2. Collaborating with other professionals.
  3. Be a productive member of the staff.
  4. Communicate effectively, clearly, and appropriately and ensure client care and clinician concerns are known.
  5. Use excellent judgment.
  6. Prompt arrival to sessions/meetings is strongly encouraged.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.