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Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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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 Assistant information

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How much do chemical dependency counselor assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for chemical dependency counselor assistant 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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant, you typically need a foundational understanding of addiction, counseling principles, and related regulations, often supported by a high school diploma and specialized training or certification. Familiarity with case management software, patient records systems, and documentation procedures is important for effective tracking and reporting. Strong interpersonal skills, active listening, and emotional resilience help build trust with clients and support their recovery journey. These skills and qualities are essential for providing reliable support, maintaining accurate records, and fostering a safe, supportive environment for individuals facing substance use challenges.

What are some common challenges faced by Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistants when supporting clients in recovery?

Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistants often encounter challenges such as building trust with clients who may be hesitant to engage, managing emotional stress from hearing difficult stories, and maintaining clear professional boundaries. They also need to adapt to a fast-paced environment where client needs can shift unexpectedly and work collaboratively with counselors, social workers, and healthcare professionals. Successfully navigating these challenges requires strong communication skills, empathy, and ongoing supervision and training.

What is a Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant?

A Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant (CDCA) is a professional who supports licensed counselors in helping individuals overcome substance use disorders. They assist with client intake, facilitate group sessions, monitor client progress, and help implement treatment plans under supervision. CDCAs play a vital role in the recovery process by providing encouragement, education, and resources to those struggling with addiction. Their work is typically overseen by a licensed chemical dependency counselor or clinical supervisor.

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

AspectChemical Dependency Counselor AssistantSubstance Abuse Counselor
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some states require certification or trainingState licensure or certification; often requires a bachelor's degree or higher
Work EnvironmentRehabilitation centers, clinics, outpatient facilitiesRehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, hospitals
Job RoleSupports counselors, assists with client activities, administrative tasksProvides direct counseling, develops treatment plans, conducts assessments

In summary, Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistants typically have fewer credentials and focus on supporting roles within treatment settings, while Substance Abuse Counselors provide direct client care and usually require higher qualifications and licensure.

More about Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Chemical Dependency Counselor jobs? The most popular types of Chemical Dependency Counselor jobs are:
What states have the most Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant jobs are:
Infographic showing various Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 94% Full Time, 1% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, and 4% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,654 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant (CDCA)

Dove Recovery

Cleveland, OH • On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

Full-time

Posted 17 days ago


Job description


Job Title: Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant (CDCA)
Department: Clinical Services
Reports To: Clinical Director / Licensed Supervisor
Employment Type: Full-Time
Location: Outpatient / PHP / IOP Treatment Center

Position Summary
The Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant (CDCA) supports the delivery of substance use disorder treatment services under the supervision of a licensed clinical professional. The CDCA plays a critical role in client engagement, group facilitation, documentation, care coordination, and maintaining compliance with OhioMHAS and payer requirements.
This position requires professionalism, strong boundaries, timely documentation, and a client-centered approach aligned with recovery-oriented care.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Clinical & Client Care
  • Facilitate psychoeducational and therapeutic group sessions appropriate to scope of CDCA practice
  • Assist with individual sessions, treatment planning, and progress reviews under supervision
  • Support client engagement, attendance, and participation in programming
  • Observe and document client behaviors, progress, and barriers to treatment
  • Assist with crisis de-escalation and behavioral interventions as needed
  • Coordinate with case managers, housing staff, and medical providers as appropriate
Documentation & Compliance
  • Complete timely, accurate, and compliant clinical documentation in the EMR
  • Ensure documentation supports medical necessity and level-of-care requirements
  • Follow OhioMHAS, Medicaid, and payer documentation standards
  • Maintain confidentiality and HIPAA compliance at all times
  • Participate in chart audits and corrective action as directed
Team & Program Support
  • Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings, staffing, and supervision
  • Communicate professionally with supervisors and clinical leadership
  • Support program structure, schedules, and group flow
  • Assist with admissions, discharges, and transitions of care when assigned
  • Uphold center policies, procedures, and professional standards

Required Qualifications
  • Active CDCA certification through the Ohio Chemical Dependency Professionals Board (OCDPB)
  • Minimum of 2 years of relevant experience in behavioral health, substance use disorder treatment, or a related field.
  • Experience utilizing ASAM criteria for client assessment, placement, and level of care determination.
  • Demonstrated ability to develop and maintain individualized treatment plans and complete accurate, timely clinical documentation.
  • Knowledge of and experience applying de-escalation techniques to safely manage challenging client situations while maintaining a therapeutic environment.
  • High school diploma or GED
  • Ability to work under clinical supervision and within defined scope of practice
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Basic computer skills and EMR experience preferred
  • Ability to maintain professional boundaries and ethical standards

Preferred Qualifications
  • Experience in outpatient, IOP, PHP, or residential SUD treatment
  • Familiarity with OhioMHAS, Medicaid, and managed care requirements
  • Group facilitation experience
  • Trauma-informed care experience
  • Prior experience with co-occurring disorders

Core Competencies
  • Client-centered and recovery-oriented mindset
  • Time management and documentation discipline
  • Professionalism and reliability
  • Emotional intelligence and de-escalation skills
  • Team collaboration and accountability

Physical & Work Requirements
  • Ability to sit, stand, and facilitate groups for extended periods
  • Ability to manage a fast-paced clinical environment
  • May require evening hours based on program needs

Supervision
This position is clinically supervised by a licensed professional in accordance with OCDPB and OhioMHAS regulations.

Equal Opportunity Statement
Dove and Robin Recovery is an equal opportunity employer committed to providing a diverse, inclusive, and supportive work environment.

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