ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Addictions Counselor Jobs in Calgary, AB (NOW HIRING)

YWCA Calgary

Outreach Clinical Counsellor

Calgary, AB · Hybrid

The Outreach Clinical Counsellor is responsible for providing therapeutic counselling services to ... struggling with addictions and mental health challenges * Minimum of 2 years of counselling ...

Calgary Alpha House Society

Recovery Coach

Calgary, AB

CA$24.95/hr

An understanding of addictions including withdrawal management, harm reduction, stages of change, trauma informed-care, crisis management, crisis counseling, recovery orientated systems of care and ...

Calgary Alpha House Society

Outreach Worker

Calgary, AB

CA$24.95/hr

Experience with crisis counseling and outreach for vulnerable populations * Knowledge of addictions, harm reduction, trauma-informed care, and mental health * Strong interpersonal, crisis management ...

All JobsAddictions Counselor JobsAddictions Counselor Jobs in Calgary, AB

Addictions Counselor information

See Calgary, AB salary details

$12

$21

$31

How much do addictions counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for addictions counselor in Calgary, AB is $21.86, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.51 and $24.28 per hour, 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 popular job titles related to Addictions Counselor jobs in Calgary, AB?

For Addictions Counselor jobs in Calgary, AB, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Addictions Counselor jobs in Calgary, AB look for?

The top searched job categories for Addictions Counselor jobs in Calgary, AB are:

Addictions Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Addictions Counselor job openings in Calgary, AB 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 $45,468 per year, or $21.9 per hour.

Substance Abuse Counselor

destinationone Consulting

Calgary, AB • On-site

Full-time

Re-posted 14 days ago

Job description

destinationone Consulting specializes in recruitment across diverse sectors, including Healthcare, Health Tech, Government, Municipalities, Non-Profits, Legal, Public Accounting, Food and more. We are proactively building a data bank for opportunities in these fields. By applying, you ensure our recruiters can quickly match you with suitable roles when they arise.

Location: Various locations across Alberta The Substance Abuse Counselor specializes in treating individuals with addiction and substance use disorders. This role focuses on helping clients achieve recovery through counseling and support. Key Responsibilities: Assess clients' substance use history and related issues.

Develop and implement individualized treatment plans. Conduct individual and group counseling sessions. Monitor clients' progress and adjust treatment plans as necessary.

Facilitate educational workshops on addiction prevention. Requirements Bachelor's or Master's degree in Counseling, Social Work, or a related field; certification in substance abuse counseling preferred. Experience in addiction treatment or recovery settings.

Strong communication and motivational interviewing skills. Disclaimer: We're proactively building a databank for opportunities in Healthcare, Health Tech, Government, Non-Profits, Legal, and more. By applying, you ensure our recruiters can quickly match you with suitable roles when they arise.

We value Integrity, Transparency, and Innovation, so we want you to know these are not active jobs. Join our network today, and we'll promptly connect you with the right opportunities when they come up. Let us help you find your next career move.

Follow us on LinkedIn to stay updated with information and developments: LINKEDIN

Apply