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Chemical Dependency Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Chemical Dependency Counselor

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$19.25 - $26.50/hr

Chemical Dependency Counselor NorthStar Behavioral Health is seeking an organized and professional Chemical Dependency Counselor to join our team. The Chemical Dependency Counselor plays a key role ...

Apply Early

Chemical Dependency Counselor

Cincinnati, OH · On-site

$19.25 - $26.50/hr

Chemical Dependency Counselor NorthStar Behavioral Health is seeking an organized and professional Chemical Dependency Counselor to join our team. The Chemical Dependency Counselor plays a key role ...

Apply Early

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Chemical Dependency information

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How much do chemical dependency jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for chemical dependency in the United States is $26.52, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.60 and $27.64 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Chemical Dependency Counselor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chemical Dependency Counselor, you need knowledge of addiction theories, counseling techniques, and usually a relevant degree or certification in substance abuse counseling. Familiarity with case management software, assessment tools, and adherence to confidentiality regulations like HIPAA are typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, active listening, and resilience are crucial soft skills for supporting clients through recovery. These competencies are essential to effectively guide individuals toward sobriety, ensure ethical practice, and foster a supportive therapeutic environment.

What jobs can I do with mental health issues?

Individuals with mental health issues can pursue various jobs such as mental health counselor, social worker, case manager, or peer support specialist, often requiring relevant certifications or licenses. Many roles involve working in healthcare, community services, or support settings and may require strong communication skills and emotional resilience.

What careers have the highest substance abuse rates?

Careers in the chemical dependency field, such as addiction counselors and substance abuse therapists, often have higher rates of substance abuse due to job-related stress and exposure to addictive behaviors. Additionally, jobs in the hospitality, construction, and entertainment industries tend to report higher substance abuse rates among employees. These roles may involve irregular hours, high stress, or access to substances, increasing the risk of misuse.

What is the difference between Chemical Dependency vs Substance Abuse Counselor?

AspectChemical DependencySubstance Abuse Counselor
CredentialsCertification (e.g., CADC), relevant degreesCertification (e.g., CADC), relevant degrees
Work EnvironmentRehabilitation centers, clinics, hospitalsRehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, community programs
Industry UsageFocuses on addiction to chemicals/substancesFocuses on counseling and treatment of substance abuse

Both roles require similar credentials and often work in similar environments within the addiction treatment industry. While Chemical Dependency specialists may focus more on the medical and physiological aspects of addiction, Substance Abuse Counselors emphasize counseling and behavioral therapy. Understanding these differences helps individuals choose the right career path or treatment provider.

What is a chemical dependency counselor?

A chemical dependency counselor is a trained professional who helps individuals struggling with substance abuse or addiction to drugs and alcohol. They provide support, education, and treatment planning to help clients overcome addiction and maintain recovery. Chemical dependency counselors work in various settings such as rehabilitation centers, hospitals, and community organizations, and often collaborate with other healthcare professionals. Their responsibilities include conducting assessments, facilitating group and individual therapy, and developing recovery plans tailored to each client's needs.

What are some of the common challenges faced by professionals in Chemical Dependency counseling roles, and how can they be managed?

Professionals working in Chemical Dependency counseling often encounter challenges such as managing client relapse, maintaining professional boundaries, and coping with emotional stress from witnessing clients' struggles. Building a strong support network among colleagues, attending regular supervision, and engaging in ongoing professional development are important strategies for managing these challenges. Additionally, counselors often collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams, including medical staff and social workers, to ensure holistic care for clients. This collaborative environment helps share the workload and provides more comprehensive support for both clients and staff.

What is a chemical dependency specialist?

A chemical dependency specialist is a healthcare professional who assesses, treats, and supports individuals with substance use disorders. They often work in clinical settings, providing counseling, developing treatment plans, and may hold certifications such as Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC).

What is the highest paid addiction counselor?

The highest paid addiction counselors are often those with advanced degrees, specialized certifications, and extensive experience, typically earning salaries above $70,000 annually. In some cases, senior or clinical director roles can exceed $80,000 to $100,000, especially in private practices or healthcare organizations. Salary varies based on location, employer, and level of expertise.
More about Chemical Dependency jobs
What cities are hiring for Chemical Dependency jobs? Cities with the most Chemical Dependency job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Chemical Dependency jobs? The most popular types of Chemical Dependency jobs are:
What states have the most Chemical Dependency jobs? States with the most job openings for Chemical Dependency jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Chemical Dependency jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Chemical Dependency jobs are:
Infographic showing various Chemical Dependency job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 11% Part Time, 1% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 95% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,162 per year, or $26.5 per hour.
Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor

$19.50 - $27/hr

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Education: LCDC Education, Training Requirements

Chemical dependency counselors must meet specific education requirements to work effectively. Hands-on experience working with clients through the recovery process is a requirement for licensure, regardless of the state in which you intend to practice. Must have completed specialized training in substance use counseling or a related behavioral health area with substance abuse specialty.

Registration: Must be registered and licensed through the Texas Health and Human Services (HHS) Regulatory Services Division, which oversees the licensing of chemical dependency counselors.

Internship: Must have completed the required clinical training and internship hours as specified by the program.

Examination: Must have passed the necessary examinations to demonstrate competency in the field.

Experience: Must have minimum of 3 years detox, residential, or partial hospitalization experience in substance abuse specialty.

Continuing Education: Engage in ongoing education to maintain certification and stay updated on best practices in chemical dependency counseling.

Role of a LCDC Counselor

Licensed chemical dependency counselors provide guidance and support to their clients. A licensed chemical dependency counselor, or LCDC, plays a crucial role in helping people struggling with substance abuse disorders. They provide guidance and emotional support to clients as they try to recover from addictions. A chemical dependency counselor job description includes a variety of services to help their clients during the recovery process.

LCDC Individual Counseling Services

The exact chemical dependency counselor job description can vary by setting. However, regardless of where they work, most, if not all, chemical dependency counselors provide individual counseling and emotional support to their clients as they travel down the path to recovery. A component of individual counseling may involve completing intakes and assessments, formulating treatment plans and taking care of administrative tasks. Additionally, the role of the counselor often goes beyond just providing counseling, as counselors are often the only concerned party involved in a client's life. They may need to be available to their clients in crisis situations or be on-call during non-working hours.

LCDC Group Counseling Services

Chemical dependency counselors must often act as facilitators in group counseling sessions, intervening in heated situations or providing encouragement for shy or withdrawn members to share their experiences with the group. Participation in group counseling sessions is an important part of the recovery process. Groups help clients feel supported by others struggling with similar issues and provide a sense of camaraderie, empathy and connection.

Other Requirements

Must be CPR Certified