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Addictions Specialist Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Addictions Specialist

Salisbury, MD · On-site

$40K - $55K/yr

Addiction Specialist - ACT Team Full-Time | Salisbury, MD Schedule: Monday-Thursday 36 hour, 4-Day Work Week Salary Range: $40,000-$55,000 annually Position Overview As an Assertive Community ...

Group Facilitator

Fort Collins, CO · On-site

$22 - $24/hr

With an unrivaled, evidence - based clinical curriculum and highly individualized care, Avenues continues to set new standards in the world of addiction treatment. Our programs - spanning detox ...

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Addictions Specialist information

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$37K

$53K

$70.5K

How much do addictions specialist jobs pay per year?

As of Sep 9, 2026, the average yearly pay for addictions specialist in the United States is $52,998.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,000.00 and $56,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an addictions specialist do?

An Addictions Specialist is a trained professional who helps individuals struggling with substance use disorders or addictive behaviors. They assess clients’ needs, develop treatment plans, provide counseling, and offer support throughout the recovery process. Addictions Specialists may work in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or private practices, collaborating with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive care. Their goal is to guide clients toward recovery, relapse prevention, and healthier lifestyles.

How does an addictions specialist typically collaborate with other healthcare professionals in a treatment setting?

Addictions Specialists often work as part of a multidisciplinary team that may include physicians, psychiatrists, social workers, and counselors. They regularly participate in case conferences, coordinate care plans, and share insights to ensure a holistic approach to each client's recovery. This collaboration helps address both the psychological and medical aspects of addiction, leading to more effective treatment outcomes. Strong communication and teamwork skills are key, as daily or weekly meetings with colleagues are common to review progress and adjust interventions as needed.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an addictions specialist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Addictions Specialist, you need a background in counseling, psychology, or social work, often supported by relevant degrees and state licensure or certification. Familiarity with case management systems, clinical assessment tools, and evidence-based treatment modalities such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is essential. Strong interpersonal skills, active listening, and cultural sensitivity help build trust and rapport with clients facing substance use challenges. These competencies are crucial for delivering effective treatment, supporting recovery, and improving client outcomes in a complex and sensitive field.

What is the difference between Addictions Specialist vs Substance Abuse Counselor?

AspectAddictions SpecialistSubstance Abuse Counselor
Required CredentialsCertification or license in addiction counseling, relevant degreesSimilar certifications, often licensed or certified in substance abuse counseling
Work EnvironmentClinics, treatment centers, hospitals, community programsRehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, hospitals, community agencies
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare, mental health, addiction treatment providersHealthcare, mental health, addiction treatment providers
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared due to overlapping roles and credentialsSimilar roles, but with a focus on counseling techniques

Both Addictions Specialists and Substance Abuse Counselors work in addiction treatment settings, often holding similar credentials and working in comparable environments. The main difference lies in their job focus: Addictions Specialists may have a broader role in assessment and case management, while Substance Abuse Counselors typically focus on therapy and counseling. Both roles are vital in supporting individuals through recovery.

How do you become an addictions specialist?

To become an addictions specialist, you typically need a relevant bachelor's degree such as psychology, social work, or counseling, followed by specialized training or certification in addiction counseling. Many roles also require state licensure or certification, which involves completing supervised clinical hours and passing an exam. Gaining experience in mental health or substance abuse treatment settings is also important.

Who are the top companies hiring for Addictions Specialist jobs?

The top employers for Addictions Specialist jobs are:

What states have the most Addictions Specialist jobs?

States with the most job openings for Addictions Specialist jobs include:

What are popular job titles related to Addictions Specialist jobs?

For Addictions Specialist jobs, the most frequently searched job titles are:

Infographic showing various Addictions Specialist job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 79% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 19% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,998 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Addictions Specialist

Salisbury, MD • On-site

HealthPort
5 - 10K employees

$40K - $55K/yr

Full-time

Retirement

Re-posted 20 days ago


Job description

Addiction Specialist – ACT Team

Full-Time | Salisbury, MD
 Schedule: Monday-Thursday 36 hour, 4-Day Work Week
 Salary Range: $40,000–$55,000 annually

Position Overview

As an Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) Team Addiction Specialist, you will be an essential member of an interdisciplinary team focused on supporting adults living in the community with behavioral health and substance use challenges. In this full‑time role, you will be assisting clients with their substance use recovery through evidence‑based practices, motivational interviewing, and personalized care planning as part of an interdisciplinary team and approach.

Key Responsibilities

  • Deliver high‑quality services that support HealthPort’s mission of providing sanctuary and community‑based support.
  • Facilitate weekly group sessions.
  • Utilize motivational interviewing and the stages of change model to promote recovery and client‑centered progress.
  • Develop individualized recovery plans and document progress toward established goals.
  • Coordinate care with community agencies and partnering service providers.

Qualifications

  • Associate degree in a Human Services–related field and 2+ years of experience working with chronically mentally ill individuals. CSC‑AD or CDC certification preferred.
  • Current CPR and First Aid certification.
  • Valid full driver’s license with a safe driving record.
  • Minimum 1–3 years of addictions counseling experience.

About HealthPort

  • HealthPort is a Certified Community Behavioral Health Center offering outpatient therapy, substance use services, and primary care. Our mission is to cultivate an organically developmental, evidence‑based culture dedicated to community wellness. We provide competitive compensation, a comprehensive benefits package, and a 401(k) with employer contribution and match. HealthPort is a National Health Service Corps (NHSC) eligible employer and participates in other loan forgiveness programs.