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Addictions Counselor Jobs in Houston, TX (NOW HIRING)

Licensed Substance Abuse Counselor

Houston, TX · On-site

$21.78 - $27.73/hr

Counsel and assist clients with understanding the addiction process utilizing harm reduction, motivational interviewing, and other therapeutic models. * Monitor, evaluate and record client progress ...

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Addictions Counselor information

See Houston, TX salary details

$31K

$51.8K

$67.8K

How much do addictions counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 24, 2026, the average yearly pay for addictions counselor in Houston, TX is $51,784.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,500.00 and $58,300.00 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 Houston, TX?

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

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

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

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

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

Infographic showing various Addictions Counselor job openings in Houston, TX as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Internship, 75% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $51,784 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Licensed Mental Health Counselor - Addiction Recovery Specialist

Company Confidential

Houston, TX • Hybrid

Full-time

Medical, Retirement, PTO

Posted 6 days ago


Job description

Position Overview

Gotham Enterprises Ltd is seeking a dedicated and licensed mental health counselor to join our innovative team in Houston, Texas. This full-time position primarily focuses on guiding individuals through the challenging journey of substance abuse recovery, offering support and strategies that empower them to reclaim their lives. As part of a multidisciplinary team, you will play an integral role in creating personalized treatment plans, facilitating therapy sessions, and fostering a healing environment for clients.

About the Organization

At Gotham Enterprises Ltd, we are committed to providing high-quality care to individuals facing substance use disorders. Our organization is known for its compassionate approach to treatment, offering both clinical and emotional support to our clients. We understand that recovery is multifaceted and requires a holistic approach, which is why our treatment center employs a range of therapeutic practices tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual.

Work Environment

This role is fully remote, allowing for greater flexibility in work hours while providing comprehensive outpatient services. You will have the benefit of working from the comfort of your home, while still being an essential part of our collaborative team, which meets regularly to discuss patient progress and treatment strategies. The work setting emphasizes a safe and therapeutic atmosphere, ensuring that both practitioners and clients feel supported during the recovery process.

Key Responsibilities
  • Conduct thorough assessments and screenings to evaluate clients' substance abuse history and mental health status.
  • Design and implement personalized treatment plans that not only tackle addiction issues but also address underlying mental health conditions.
  • Lead individual and group therapy sessions utilizing evidence-based therapeutic modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Motivational Interviewing.
  • Collaborate with physicians, nurses, and other mental health professionals to ensure an integrated approach to treatment and recovery.
  • Educate families on addiction and recovery processes, encouraging their involvement in treatment to facilitate a supportive home environment.
  • Maintain meticulous documentation of client progress and treatment plans while adhering to ethical and regulatory standards in mental health care.
Patient Population / Client Focus

The primary clientele at our center includes adults navigating the complexities of substance use disorders. Many clients face co-occurring mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, necessitating an integrated treatment approach. By working closely with this diverse population, you will address not only the symptoms of addiction but also the psychological, social, and biological factors that contribute to recovery, ultimately guiding them towards a path of sustained well-being.

Qualifications
  • Possession of a valid license as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), or Psychologist (PsyD).
  • A Master's or Doctoral degree in Counseling, Social Work, Psychology, or a related field is required.
  • Specialization or training in addiction counseling is highly desirable.
  • Proficiency in evidence-based practices for treating substance abuse and co-occurring disorders.
  • Exceptional therapeutic skills with the ability to inspire and motivate clients towards positive change.
  • Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the capacity to work effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
Preferred Experience
  • Experience in a substance abuse treatment setting, involving both individual and group therapy.
  • Knowledge of current best practices in addiction treatment and psychological interventions.
  • Experience with family therapy modalities is a plus.
Compensation and Benefits

The salary for this position ranges from USD 80,000 to 100,000 per year, contingent upon experience and professional credentials. In addition to a competitive salary, we offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes health insurance, retirement savings plans, and generous paid time off, providing both support and security to our employees. Opportunities for professional development in addiction counseling will also be available, enabling you to continuously grow in your career.

Career Growth Opportunities

At Gotham Enterprises Ltd, we value the professional growth of our team members. As a licensed mental health counselor, you will have access to ongoing training and educational opportunities tailored to enhance your skills in addiction treatment. We encourage our staff to pursue specialization certifications and additional licenses, paving the way for career advancement within our organization.

Why Join Our Team

Joining Gotham Enterprises Ltd means becoming part of a mission-driven organization that is transforming lives through comprehensive addiction treatment. Our supportive environment fosters collaboration and innovation, allowing you to work alongside like-minded professionals who are passionate about making a difference. If you are a licensed mental health therapist committed to helping individuals emerge from the shadows of addiction, we invite you to apply and contribute to our impactful journey.

Application Information

If you are ready to take the next step in your career and make a significant contribution to the field of addiction recovery, we encourage you to apply today. Please submit your resume and cover letter detailing your qualifications and passion for this cause. We look forward to connecting with you soon!