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Addictions Counselor Jobs in Boston, MA (NOW HIRING)

Counselor, Askia

Roxbury, MA · On-site

$26 - $38/hr

... Society for Addiction Medicine (ASAM). The COE designation gives Askia greater resources and ... Counsel patients individually, in family meetings and in group sessions to facilitate progress ...

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Showing results 1-20

Addictions Counselor information

See Boston, MA salary details

$35.3K

$58.9K

$77.1K

How much do addictions counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 8, 2026, the average yearly pay for addictions counselor in Boston, MA is $58,911.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $49,400.00 and $66,300.00 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 Boston, MA?

The most popular types of Addictions Counselor jobs in Boston, MA are:

What job categories do people searching Addictions Counselor jobs in Boston, MA look for?

The top searched job categories for Addictions Counselor jobs in Boston, MA are:

Infographic showing various Addictions Counselor job openings in Boston, MA 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 $58,911 per year, or $28.3 per hour.

$45K - $61K/yr

Full-time

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

The Brockton Multi Service Center provides comprehensive services to mentally ill adults and children. Programs include Outpatient, Case Management, ACCS, and PACT team. The Brockton Multi service Center is a Joint Commission certified facility. In all ways we aspire to create an environment which promotes growth, recovery and independence for clients,
families and employees alike.
The Substance Use/Addictions Counselor will provide trauma-informed, person-centered community-based interventions that target skill development to assigned caseload of community clients. Will serve at the direct care liaison to assigned caseload and will provide services to assigned clients on an ongoing and as needed basis. Participates in the development of Community Service Plan (CSP)with assigned caseload. Completes required documentation and communicates critical & pertinent information to the team.
The Community Outreach Worker will be the designated Substance Use/Addictions counselor for the ACCS team, acting as the Substance Use/Addictions specialist for caseload and/or other clients on the team.  Will screen and assess persons-served on an ongoing basis regarding substance use/abuse and addiction issues.  Will provide ongoing teaching and modeling to the Teams /GLEs and provide direct interventions and support to persons-served with substance use/addictions issues.   Will provide trauma-informed, person-centered community-based interventions to assigned caseload.  Participates in the development of Community Service Plans (CSPs) with assigned caseload.  Will ensure appropriate linkage to substance use/addiction resources in the community.
 

Please Note: This position is 40 hours per week. The selected candidate will work Sunday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The days off are Friday and Saturday.

Duties and Responsibilities (these duties are a general summary and not all inclusive):

  • Serve as a member on an ACCS Integrated team by attending regularly scheduled meetings, coming prepared to present relevant psychosocial history, and provide updates on person served's progress toward goals and any barriers to progress.
  • Responsible for assisting in the development, understanding, & implementation of CSPs of those that are on assigned case load by involving person served and significant others as appropriate.
  • Responsible for acting as the Substance Abuse Clinician for assigned persons on the Integrated Team and provides ongoing screening and assessments and re-assessments for assigned individuals related to substance use/abuse/addictions issues, addiction risk, and addiction treatment needs. on the team to assure persons served have knowledge of entitlements and assistance in applying for or reinstating benefits.
  • provides competency-based, evidence-based, ad best-practice interventions related to substance use/addiction issues including screening, Brief Intervention, referral for treatment (SBIRT), Stages of Change model, Motivational Interviewing, and Harm Reduction.
  • Assess the needs of assigned persons on a regular basis by reviewing records, providing supportive counseling and maintaining regular contact with persons served and families via outreach in their home or other community environments.
  • Provides community-based interventions to persons-served and side by side consultation/direction to members of the Integrated team regarding substance use issues, in order to ensure successful provision of CSP Interventions, to coordinate hospital discharges, to facilitate family/group meetings, and to access community services and support through care transitions.
  • Responsible for reading & communicating all pertinent information and attending daily rounds and staff meetings and informing supervisor or designee of any critical information.
  • Responsible for transporting or arranging transportation for persons served that need that level of service.
  • Assist person served with utilizing coping strategies, natural supports and safety planning when necessary.
  • Provide and/or coordinate with Care Coordination entities to ensure persons served have access to community-based clinical, self-help, peer, medication-assisted treatment, and psycho-educational services that address addiction treatment and related issues (e.g., HIV, AIDS, Hepatitis C) and relapse prevention.
  • Responsible for maintaining person served records in a timely manner by documenting in EMR and paper record and completing all other related forms to ensure compliance with DMH regulations and Rehab Option requirements.
  • Responsible for updating CARE database during team review/meetings to tack/monitor review cycles, assessments and annual physical exams.
  • Provides culturally and linguistically competent services that are also sensitive and responsive to religious practice, sexual orientation, gender differences, physical disabilities, as well as services that are age and developmentally appropriate, including young adults and elders.
  • Responsible for attending all mandatory trainings and classes and completing mandatory annual DMH trainings in MassAchieve.
  • Responsible for maintaining all persons served related databases in a timely manner.
  • Responsible for the knowledge of relevant DMH regulations and ACCS program procedures by reading the program and agency manual and supervision by the program manager or designee to ensure compliance and quality person served care.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Experience working with people with chronic/persistent mental illness and/or substance use disorders.
  • Thorough knowledge of human growth and development
  • Considerable knowledge of the social, emotional, ad experiential causes of dysfunctional behavior
  • Considerable knowledge of the principles and practices of psychosocial diagnosis
  • Considerable knowledge of casework treatment process and interviewing techniques
  • Considerable knowledge of community resources as related to implementing treatment plans
  • Ability to evaluate crisis situations and respond appropriate therapeutic intervention
  • Ability to work collaboratively with other mental health disciplines
  • Ability to effectively communicate orally and in written format, expressing thoughts clearly and developing ideas in a logical sequence.
  • Possession of a current and valid class D Motor Vehicle Operator's license.
  • Experience in and/or knowledge of human services desired.
  • Given the population served, bilingual or multilingual fluency.

Brockton Multi Service Center Mission Statement:

The Brockton Multi Service Center provides comprehensive services to mentally ill adults and children.  Programs include Case Management, Adult Community Clinical Services program and a Program of Assertive Community Treatment (PACT) team.  The Brockton Multi Service Center is a Joint Commission certified facility. In all we always aspire to create an environment which promotes growth and independence for clients, families, and employees alike.  

Pre-Hire Process:

A criminal background check will be completed on the recommended candidate as required by the regulations set forth by the Executive Office of Health and Human Services prior to the candidate being hired. For more information, please visit http://www.mass.gov/hhs/cori 

Education, licensure and certifications will be verified in accordance with the Human Resources Division's Hiring Guidelines. 

Education and license/certification information provided by the selected candidate(s) is subject to the Massachusetts Public Records Law and may be published on the Commonwealth's website.

If you require assistance with the application/interview process and would like to request an ADA accommodation, please click on the link and complete the Reasonable Accommodation Online Request Form.

For questions regarding this requisition, please contact Executive Office of Health and Human Services, Human Resources at 1-800-510-4122, Option 4.

 
Qualifications - External
First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.

MINIMUM ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS: 

At least four years of full-time or equivalent part-time professional experience in human services or social work.  

Substitution: Bachelor's degree of higher in Social Work, Psychology, Sociology, Counseling, Counseling Education, education of the physically and/or emotionally handicapped, education in the multiple handicapped, education in the learning disabled, human services, rehabilitation, rehabilitation counseling, nursing, recreational therapy, art therapy, dance therapy, music therapy or physical education may be substituted for two years of the required experience on the basis of two years of education for one year of experience

LICENSE AND/OR CERTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

Current and valid Massachusetts Class D Motor Vehicle Operator's license

REMARKS

Professional licensure in a human service field including but not limited to LCSW, LICSW, LMHC, Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC) or Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CDAC)

Previous experience providing services to individuals with co-occurring disorders:  substance use disorders, and mental illness

Previous experience working with people with chronic mental illness

Salary placement is determined by a combination of factors, including the candidate's years of directly related experience and education, and alignment with our internal compensation structure as set forth by the Human Resources Division's Hiring Guidelines. For all bargaining unit positions (non-management), compensation is subject to the salary provisions outlined in the applicable collective bargaining agreement and will apply to placement within the appropriate salary range.

Comprehensive Benefits

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!

Title 101 CMR 23.00 ("Regulation") requires certain agency staff to have received the COVID-19 vaccination and Influenza vaccination, or have taken required mitigation measures, to prevent viral infection and transmission in State Hospitals and State Congregate Care Facilities. The Regulation applies to this position. Successful candidates will be required to acknowledge and attest to your vaccination status for both COVID-19 and Influenza.

An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer.  Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law.  Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements.  We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.

First consideration will be given to those applicants that apply within the first 14 days.

 

Based on assignment as a Mental Health Case Manager or Forensic Transition Team Coordinator, within the Department of Mental Health, a Bachelor's degree or higher in social work, psychology, sociology, counseling, counseling education, education of the physically or emotionally handicapped, education of the multiple handicapped, education of the learning disabled, human services, rehabilitation counseling, education or other a related field is required.

In addition applicants must have at least four (4) years of full-time, or equivalent part-time, case management of clinical/therapeutic experience.

 

Based on assignment, travel may be required. Incumbents who elect to use a motor vehicle for travel must have a current and valid motor vehicle driver's license at a class level specific to assignment.

Comprehensive Benefits

When you embark on a career with the Commonwealth, you are offered an outstanding suite of employee benefits that add to the overall value of your compensation package. We take pride in providing a work experience that supports you, your loved ones, and your future.

Want the specifics? Explore our Employee Benefits and Rewards!

An Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer.  Females, minorities, veterans, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

The Commonwealth is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, disability, national origin, veteran status, or any other basis covered by appropriate law.  Research suggests that qualified women, Black, Indigenous, and Persons of Color (BIPOC) may self-select out of opportunities if they don't meet 100% of the job requirements.  We encourage individuals who believe they have the skills necessary to thrive to apply for this role.