1

Addictions Counselor Jobs in Austin, TX (NOW HIRING)

Addiction Counselor

Bastrop, TX · On-site

$45K - $60K/yr

The Addiction Counselor is responsible for assessing and monitoring client behavior while in treatment for substance use. In collaboration with the Clinical Director and Clinical Supervisor, the ...

Counselor

Austin, TX · On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

Description Substance Use Counselor (LCDC / LCDC-I) Pay: $45,000 - $55,000 per year Join Our Team ... Recovery Unplugged Behavioral Health is a nationally recognized leader in addiction and mental ...

Counselor

Austin, TX · On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

Substance Use Counselor (LCDC / LCDC-I)** **Pay:** $45,000 - $55,000 per year **Join Our Team at ... Recovery Unplugged Behavioral Health is a nationally recognized leader in addiction and mental ...

Counselor

Austin, TX

$45K - $55K/yr

Description Substance Use Counselor (LCDC / LCDC-I) Pay: $45,000 - $55,000 per year Sunday ... Recovery Unplugged Behavioral Health is a nationally recognized leader in addiction and mental ...

Counselor

Austin, TX · On-site

$45K - $55K/yr

Substance Use Counselor (LCDC / LCDC-I)** **Pay:** $45,000 - $55,000 per year ** Sunday- Thursday ... Recovery Unplugged Behavioral Health is a nationally recognized leader in addiction and mental ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

Addictions Counselor information

See Austin, TX salary details

$32.2K

$53.7K

$70.4K

How much do addictions counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for addictions counselor in Austin, TX is $53,749.00, 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 Austin, TX?

The most popular types of Addictions Counselor jobs in Austin, TX are:

What are popular job titles related to Addictions Counselor jobs in Austin, TX?

For Addictions Counselor jobs in Austin, TX, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Addictions Counselor jobs in Austin, TX look for?

The top searched job categories for Addictions Counselor jobs in Austin, TX are:

What cities near Austin, TX are hiring for Addictions Counselor jobs?

Cities near Austin, TX with the most Addictions Counselor job openings:

Infographic showing various Addictions Counselor job openings in Austin, TX 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 $53,749 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Addiction Counselor

Sunshine Behavioral Health

Bastrop, TX • On-site

$45K - $60K/yr

Other

Posted 26 days ago


Job description

Role Summary:
The Addiction Counselor is responsible for assessing and monitoring client behavior while in treatment for substance use. In collaboration with the Clinical Director and Clinical Supervisor, the Addiction Counselor is responsible for case management services, facilitating group therapy, providing crisis management, AOD assessment treatment planning and counseling, and completing discharge planning.


Responsibilities:

  • Develop, recommend, and review AOD treatment plans and goals with clients and/or their families.
  • Initiate and facilitate individual and group therapy sessions and document all processes in the EMR platform.
  • Provide referrals and resources to support the client’s recovery while in treatment while collaborating with the Therapist.
  • Develop and implement appropriate discharge planning with client and/or their families.
  • Record client health information in the EMR platform and complete timely thorough documentation.
  • Support clients with case management services including FMLA/STD matters and submit them through the appropriate channel.
  • Participate in consultation and collaboration with other care team members and treatment professionals.
  • Respond to emergencies and initiate action as required.
  • Attend and participate in staff meetings and monthly trainings.


Preferred Qualifications:

  • Possess experience and/or education of chemical and alcohol dependency and abuse.
  • Possess experience and/or education in crisis management.
  • Ability to use motivational interviewing to reinforce client’s power to make change.
  • Possess knowledge of HIPAA.
  • The candidate will show skills and competency in working with clients, from undertaking clinical assessments, planning and delivery of care to review of effective methods of interventions, in order to shape continuing service provision which will meet the needs of individuals.
  • Preferred candidates should be able to work well within a team and independently, effective communication skills, time management, ability to problem solve, and strong professional boundaries.
  • Preferred candidate must be sensitive to religious, ethnic, and cultural differences.
  • Knowledge of CBT, DBT, 12-step recovery, and other evidence-based theories is a plus.


Minimum Requirements:

  • STATE APPROPRIATE LICENSE
  • Associate’s degree (or experience equivalent to)
  • Valid Driver’s License
  • Current CPR and First Aid Certification or willing to obtain.
  • Must successfully complete Background Check, Drug Screen, and TB Test