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Aod Counselor Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Pinnacle Treatment Centers

Counselor

Redlands, CA · On-site

Counselor Full-time Pinnacle's Voice: A Tale of Transformation & Recovery "I found myself like a lot of people in a position I never thought I would be in. I needed help bad... It all started with a ...

Pinnacle Treatment Centers

Counselor

Ontario, CA · On-site

Counselor Full-Time Monday-Friday 5:00 am-1:30 pm Pinnacle's Voice: A Tale of Transformation & Recovery "I found myself like a lot of people in a position I never thought I would be in. I needed help ...

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES INC

Counselor III

Pomona, CA · On-site

$27 - $30/hr

Statement of Purpose The Counselor III fulfills assigned role as a part of the treatment team, maintaining the well being of clients and integrity of the program. Major Tasks, Duties and ...

Aegis Treatment Centers

Counselor

Banning, CA

Counselor Pinnacle's Voice: A Tale of Transformation & Recovery "I found myself like a lot of people in a position I never thought I would be in. I needed help bad... It all started with a call ...

Aegis Treatment Centers

Counselor

Redlands, CA

Counselor Full-time Pinnacle's Voice: A Tale of Transformation & Recovery "I found myself like a lot of people in a position I never thought I would be in. I needed help bad... It all started with a ...

Aegis Treatment Centers

Counselor

Pomona, CA

Counselor Full-time Pinnacle's Voice: A Tale of Transformation & Recovery "I found myself like a lot of people in a position I never thought I would be in. I needed help bad... It all started with a ...

Pinnacle Treatment Centers

Counselor

Pomona, CA · On-site

Counselor Full-time Pinnacle's Voice: A Tale of Transformation & Recovery "I found myself like a lot of people in a position I never thought I would be in. I needed help bad... It all started with a ...

Pinnacle Treatment Centers

Counselor

Banning, CA · On-site

Counselor Pinnacle's Voice: A Tale of Transformation & Recovery "I found myself like a lot of people in a position I never thought I would be in. I needed help bad... It all started with a call ...

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES INC

Counselor I-II

Pomona, CA

$23 - $26.50/hr

Job Purpose: - The Counselor I at Behavioral Health Services Inc is responsible for providing direct counseling services to clients, supporting their mental health and well-being. The role involves ...

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES INC

Counselor I-II

Pomona, CA · On-site

$23 - $26.50/hr

Job Purpose: - The Counselor I at Behavioral Health Services Inc is responsible for providing direct counseling services to clients, supporting their mental health and well-being. The role involves ...

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES INC

Counselor I/II

Pomona, CA · On-site

$24 - $29.05/hr

Business Title: - Counselor I Job Purpose: - To provide individual, group, and/or family counseling services to clients experiencing a variety of mental health and/or substance abuse issues. To ...

EoS Fitness

Fitness Counselor

Moreno Valley, CA

Our Fitness Counselors will actively pursue enrollment of new members through self-generated and company-sponsored programs, promotions, and referrals. In this fast-paced, energy-driven position, you ...

EoS Fitness

Fitness Counselor

Jurupa Valley, CA

Our Fitness Counselors will actively pursue enrollment of new members through self-generated and company-sponsored programs, promotions, and referrals. In this fast-paced, energy-driven position, you ...

EoS Fitness

Fitness Counselor

Santa Ana, CA

Our Fitness Counselors will actively pursue enrollment of new members through self-generated and company-sponsored programs, promotions, and referrals. In this fast-paced, energy-driven position, you ...

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All JobsAod Counselor JobsAod Counselor Jobs in Riverside, CA

Aod Counselor information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$14

$26

$37

How much do aod counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for aod counselor in Riverside, CA is $26.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.31 and $30.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges AOD Counselors face when supporting clients through recovery?

AOD Counselors often encounter challenges such as client relapse, resistance to treatment, and co-occurring mental health issues. Building trust and maintaining client engagement can require patience and strong interpersonal skills, as clients may be ambivalent about change or struggle with external factors like family dynamics or legal issues. Counselors must also balance case management tasks with direct counseling, all while maintaining professional boundaries and practicing self-care to avoid burnout.

What are AOD Counselors?

AOD Counselors, or Alcohol and Other Drug Counselors, are professionals who help individuals struggling with substance abuse issues. They provide assessment, counseling, treatment planning, and support to clients dealing with addiction to alcohol or other drugs. AOD Counselors work in various settings such as rehabilitation centers, hospitals, community organizations, and private practices. Their goal is to assist clients in achieving and maintaining sobriety, improving mental health, and rebuilding their lives.

What is the highest paid type of counselor?

Among counseling roles, substance abuse, behavioral disorder, and mental health counselors tend to have higher salaries, especially those with advanced degrees and certifications. For example, clinical, psychiatric, and school counselors with specialized training and experience often earn higher wages, particularly in private practice or specialized settings.

What is the highest paid addiction counselor?

The highest paid addiction counselors are often those with advanced certifications, extensive experience, or specialized skills, such as clinical supervisors or program directors. Salaries can reach over $70,000 annually, especially in private practice or specialized treatment centers. Factors like location, education, and certifications influence earning potential.

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

To thrive as an AOD (Alcohol and Other Drugs) Counselor, you need a solid understanding of addiction counseling principles, assessment techniques, and typically a relevant certification or degree such as CADC or a similar credential. Familiarity with case management software, electronic health records, and evidence-based treatment methods is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and the ability to build trust are vital for supporting clients through recovery. These skills and qualifications are essential to effectively guide individuals toward sobriety and ensure ethical, effective care within treatment programs.

What is the minimum education requirement to become a certified aOD counselor?

To become a certified alcohol and other drug (AOD) counselor, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with specialized training or coursework in addiction counseling. Many states or certifying bodies also require completing a certain number of supervised clinical hours and passing a certification exam.

Is a substance abuse counselor a good career?

A substance abuse counselor is a rewarding career that involves helping individuals recover from addiction through counseling and support. It typically requires relevant certifications, strong communication skills, and the ability to work in various settings such as clinics or treatment centers. Job stability and demand are generally good due to ongoing need for addiction treatment services.

What is the difference between Aod Counselor vs Substance Abuse Counselor?

AspectAod CounselorSubstance Abuse Counselor
CredentialsOften requires certification or licensure in addiction counselingRequires certification or licensure in substance abuse counseling
Work EnvironmentWorks in clinics, rehab centers, or community programsWorks in rehab centers, outpatient clinics, or hospitals
Industry UsageCommonly used in addiction treatment settingsUsed in substance abuse treatment facilities and mental health clinics

Both Aod Counselors and Substance Abuse Counselors focus on addiction treatment, often requiring similar certifications and working in comparable environments. The main difference lies in terminology; 'Aod' (Alcohol and Other Drugs) is a broader term sometimes used interchangeably with 'Substance Abuse.' Understanding these nuances helps in choosing the right career path or job search focus.

What are popular job titles related to Aod Counselor jobs in Riverside, CA? For Aod Counselor jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Aod Counselor jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Aod Counselor jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Aod Counselor jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Aod Counselor job openings:
Aod Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Aod Counselor job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 9% Internship, 65% Full Time, 10% Part Time, 1% Contract, 2% Nights, and 13% Summer. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,271 per year, or $26.6 per hour.
Counselor

Counselor

Pinnacle Treatment Centers

Redlands, CA • On-site

Full-time

PTO

Re-posted 4 days ago

Pinnacle Treatment Centers rating

5.4

Company rating: 5.4 out of 10

Based on 28 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Counselor
Full-time
Pinnacle's Voice: A Tale of Transformation & Recovery
"I found myself like a lot of people in a position I never thought I would be in. I needed help bad... It all started with a call... one of the easiest and hardest things I've ever done. Every day I wake up and think how good it feels and how lucky I am to have found this place."
-Patient, Pinnacle Treatment Centers
About Us: Pinnacle Treatment Centers is a leading provider of comprehensive addiction treatment services, committed to transforming lives through compassionate care. Our approach is rooted in evidence-based practices, focusing on the holistic well-being of our patients, and treating our teammates with the same level of individualized compassion and empathy. We believe in providing a supportive and inclusive environment for both our patients and our dedicated team of professionals. Pinnacle transforms the lives of more than 35,000 individuals daily resulting in a network of care spanning across the country.
Position Overview: As a Counselor, you will play a crucial role in the recovery journey of our patients. Pinnacle's unique approach combines compassionate care with innovative treatment methods to address the diverse needs of individuals seeking help for substance use disorders. Join us in making a positive impact on the lives of those we serve.
Teammate Appreciation Benefits: At Pinnacle Treatment Centers, we value our teammates and offer a variety of benefits to support their personal and professional growth.
1. Variable Pay Structure: Competitive compensation based on experience, education, and licensure.
2. Defined Career Pathing: Clear advancement opportunities through our Counselor Tier Program, designed to reward achievement in education, licensure, and credentials.
3. Bonus Incentives: Recognizing and rewarding quality patient care with monthly performance-based bonuses.
4. STAR LRP Eligibility: 90% of our facilities are eligible for the Student Loan Repayment Program. This federal program selects applicants to forgive 100% of their student loans.
5. Continuing Education: Free access to over 600 CEU courses to enhance your skills and knowledge.
6. Paid Time Off: 18 days of PTO, sick leave, and 8 paid holidays to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
7. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Initiatives: Be part of a workforce that reflects the diversity of our patient population.
8. Free Clinical Supervision: Available based on licensure and availability to support your professional growth.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Provides orientation to new patients to the programs' rules, policies, procedures, and patients' rights.
  • Conduct Intakes, Discharge Planning, Initial Assessments, and Initial Treatment Plans professionally and within time guidelines as required by applicable federal and state regulation, CARF guidelines and Pinnacle Policies.
  • Involve patients in the assessment, treatment planning, and intervention aspects of treatment, which provides the patient with a sense of entitlement to their own recovery.
  • Administer the biopsychosocial assessment, which evaluates all areas of patients' lives, including their addictions, medical and mental health history, socioeconomics, legal, etc. at intake and on an ongoing basis.
  • Recognize and utilize patients' Strengths, Needs, Ability, and Preferences (SNAP), to develop and implement individualized Treatment Plans that effectively help patients to meet their short & long-term goals. • Determine the clinical necessity of counseling services based on the clinical assessment and evaluation of the patients.
  • Monitor closely, and document any change of circumstances with the patients, especially as it relates to matters that may affect their recovery, identifying and addressing relapse indicators to promote relapse prevention interventions in an early stage.
  • Comply with and implement the Medical Q.A (Quality Assurance) and Clinical Risk Management Policies, including:
    • Evaluate the patients for any high-risk conditions (e.g., liver failure, pregnancy, overdose, bipolar, schizophrenia, etc.), which may endanger the patient (suicidal) or other parties (homicidal).
    • Administer the BAM-R, C-SSRS, GAD-7, and PHQ-9 screening tools to determine the severity of the patient's mental/emotional status.
    • Evaluate the risk factors concerning each such case, considering the appropriateness of, and professionalism in treating such individuals in an OTP in comparison to treatment in a residential facility or other treatment modalities.
    • Review and ask about other practitioners' involvement in the treatment of these high-risk conditions. Recommend immediate referral to such a specialist in case of need. Request the patient sign a waiver for release of information which will allow communication with the other practitioner in case of need (e.g., deterioration of the patient's condition).
    • Flag high-risk patients to the Medical Directors, Physician Extenders, and Regional Clinical Leadership (RCL) and highlight the conditions concerned.
    • Refer such patients to the Medical Directors, Physician Extenders or RCLs (Regional Clinical Leadership) based on the urgency, utilizing the informal Referral Policy or the scheduled Treatment Team/Case Conference session.
    • Review physician notes, following the Medical Directors or Physician Extenders' session with the patient, verifying that they noted and addressed the high-risk factor, or otherwise bring it immediately to the attention of the supervising counselor, as well as the clinic manager, until the matter's proper and professional handling by the physician or physician extender.
    • Advise, in writing, other staff members (including the clinic manager, supervising counselor, dispensing nurse and front office) of high-risk patients and their condition. Maintain and circulate minutes from treatment team/case conference sessions to the other staff members.
  • Provide professional counseling and referral services by:
    • Addressing patients' clinical and special needs by maintaining referrals to specialized ("second tier") services rendered by physicians, physician extenders and counselors within Aegis, as well as referrals to Keys to Recovery (or other twelve-step) support groups, and other community resources (e.g., agencies and practitioners outside of Aegis), acting as a liaison to these agencies, as necessary.
    • Providing individual and group counseling as clinically necessary, to address the problem issues identified in the Initial Assessment and Treatment Plans. The counseling service will include protocols for the treatment of Relapse Prevention, Peer Pressure, Anger Management, Domestic Violence, Parenting, Family Preservation, Vocational Rehabilitation, etc.
    • Utilizing advanced counseling techniques such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Motivational Interviewing, etc.
    • Scheduling regular counseling sessions with patients; issue patient appointment cards and record scheduled or rescheduled sessions in EHR scheduler.
    • Documenting counseling entries, including signature and date, as required by applicable federal and state regulations, CARF guidelines and Pinnacle policies.
    • Engaging in Community Relations and Outreach efforts.
    • Attending all recommended training including Physician Training of Counselors, RCL training, and case conferences with the program physicians and physician assistants.
    • Collecting research data when requested.
    • Observing the collection of patients' urine samples when required
    • Attend team meetings and complete all training courses timely as required.
  • Other duties as assigned.

Qualifications:
Counselor I: $20/hour to $22/hour
  • Possess an associate degree in relevant field and has the registration/credentials necessary to provide counseling services to our patient population.
  • Kern County requires a bachelor's degree or High school diploma/GED with 75% certification education.

Preferred
Possess a bachelor's degree or higher
Counselor II: $22/hour to $25/hour
  • Possess an associate degree in a relevant field or a majority of approved counselor certification courses, license, or certification necessary to provide counseling services to our patient population. Kern County requires a bachelor's degree or 75% of required counselor certification courses)
  • Possess counselor registration/certification by a "Certifying Organization: recognized by the Department of Alcohol and Drug Programs. Proof of registration is required immediately once employed with a California Alcohol and Drug Program certifying body. Employees must be registered prior to providing any counseling services per the DHCS (Department of Health Care Services).
  • 2-5 years of experience OR Master level

Counselor III: $25/hour to $28/hour (Certified) & $28/hour - $31/hour (Licensed)
  • Degrees must include being licensed, licensed eligible, or certified. Clinical skills must be effective in complex cases. Along with the below:
  • Possess certification as an Alcohol and Other Drug Counselor with a CA approved certification agency or current credentials as licensed or license-eligible with the Board of Behavioral Sciences or the Board of Psychology. If license-eligible, must maintain the Board's requirements to be able to practice including receiving the necessary amount of clinical supervision by a Board approved supervisor.
  • Proof of licensure or certification by a State approved regulatory agency is required immediately once employed. Employees must be credentialed prior to providing any counseling services per the DHCS (Department of Health Care Services).

Join our Team & Start Saving Lives Today
Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

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