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Chemical Dependency Counselor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Chemical Dependency Counselor

Austin, TX · On-site +1

$57K - $64K/yr

This is the first in a series of two chemical dependency counselor-related job classifications within the Social Services job family. This classification is responsible for assessing the substance ...

Chemical Dependency Counselor

Austin, TX · On-site +1

$57K - $64K/yr

This is the first in a series of two chemical dependency counselor-related job classifications within the Social Services job family. This classification is responsible for assessing the substance ...

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We are seeking a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor LCDC to join our team! You will be responsible for implementing effective treatment plans to clients in an individual or group setting with ...

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Chemical Dependency Counselor information

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How much do chemical dependency counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for chemical dependency counselor in the United States is $23.39, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.23 and $26.44 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a chemical dependency counselor?

Chemical Dependency Counselors are professionals who help individuals struggling with substance use disorders, such as drug or alcohol addiction. They assess clients’ needs, develop treatment plans, provide counseling, and support recovery efforts. These counselors may work in various settings, including rehabilitation centers, hospitals, and community health organizations. Their goal is to guide clients through recovery and help them develop coping strategies to maintain a substance-free lifestyle.

What are some typical challenges chemical dependency counselors face when supporting clients in recovery?

Chemical Dependency Counselors often encounter challenges such as helping clients manage relapses, addressing co-occurring mental health disorders, and motivating individuals who may be ambivalent about treatment. The role requires strong communication skills to build trust and foster an open environment, as well as the ability to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams, including medical professionals and social workers. Counselors must also balance emotional resilience with professional boundaries to avoid burnout and provide consistent support to clients.

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 a background in counseling, addiction studies, and often a relevant certification or licensure such as CADC or LPC. Familiarity with assessment tools, electronic case management systems, and treatment planning software is commonly required. Strong interpersonal skills, active listening, empathy, and the ability to maintain confidentiality set outstanding counselors apart. These competencies are vital for building trust, supporting recovery, and effectively guiding clients through the addiction treatment process.

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

AspectChemical Dependency CounselorSubstance Abuse Counselor
CredentialsState certification, CADC or equivalentState certification, CADC or equivalent
Work EnvironmentRehabilitation centers, clinics, hospitalsRehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, community programs
Industry UsageCommonly used in addiction treatment settingsOften used interchangeably with Chemical Dependency Counselor

Both roles focus on helping individuals overcome substance abuse issues, often requiring similar certifications and working in comparable environments. The terms are frequently used interchangeably, with 'Chemical Dependency Counselor' being the more formal designation in many states.

More about Chemical Dependency Counselor jobs

What cities are hiring for Chemical Dependency Counselor jobs?

Cities with the most Chemical Dependency Counselor job openings:

What are the most commonly searched types of Chemical Dependency Counselor jobs?

The most popular types of Chemical Dependency Counselor jobs are:

Who are the top companies hiring for Chemical Dependency Counselor jobs?

The top employers for Chemical Dependency Counselor jobs are:

What states have the most Chemical Dependency Counselor jobs?

States with the most job openings for Chemical Dependency Counselor jobs include:

Infographic showing various Chemical Dependency Counselor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 82% Full Time, 14% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,654 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor

Desoto, TX • On-site

Dallas Behavioral Healthcare Hospital
Offices of Mental Health Practitioners • 11 - 50 employees

$19.50 - $27/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 hours 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