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Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant Jobs in Iowa

Trinity Health

Psychiatry APP Waterloo

Waterloo, IA

... Assistant) with Psychiatric Mental Health certification to join our established, well-respected ... Horizons Chemical Dependency Unit * Large support staff of psychologists, social workers, and ...

Trinity Health

Psychiatry APP Waterloo

Waterloo, IA

... Assistant) with Psychiatric Mental Health certification to join our established, well-respected ... Horizons Chemical Dependency Unit * Large support staff of psychologists, social workers, and ...

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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 Iowa is $21.97, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.08 and $24.86 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.

What are popular job titles related to Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant jobs in Iowa? For Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant jobs in Iowa look for? The top searched job categories for Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant jobs in Iowa are:
What cities in Iowa are hiring for Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant jobs? Cities in Iowa with the most Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant job openings:
Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Chemical Dependency Counselor Assistant job openings in Iowa as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 87% Full Time, 9% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $45,699 per year, or $22 per hour.
Chemical Dependency Counselor-Powell Chemical Dependency Ctr

Chemical Dependency Counselor-Powell Chemical Dependency Ctr

UnityPoint Health

Des Moines, IA • On-site

$19.50 - $26.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Retirement, PTO

Posted 8 days ago

UnityPoint Health rating

7.2

Company rating: 7.2 out of 10

Based on 350 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

326th of 864 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Overview
The CD Therapist performs individual and group counseling with patients of Powell CDC. Facilitates educational sessions with both patients and family on the effects of addiction. The CD Therapist takes primary responsibility for the patient in their care and coordinates the services with the team to provide treatment planning based on the individual needs of the patient.
Why UnityPoint Health?
At UnityPoint Health, you matter. We're proud to be recognized as a Top 150 Place to Work in Healthcare by Becker's Healthcare several years in a row for our commitment to our team members.
Our competitive Total Rewards program offers benefits options that align with your needs and priorities, no matter what life stage you're in. Here are just a few:
  • Expect paid time off, parental leave, 401K matching and an employee recognition program.
  • Dental and health insurance, paid holidays, short and long-term disability and more. We even offer pet insurance for your four-legged family members.
  • Early access to earned wages with Daily Pay, tuition reimbursement to help further your career and adoption assistance to help you grow your family.

With a collective goal to champion a culture of belonging where everyone feels valued and respected, we honor the ways people are unique and embrace what brings us together.
And, we believe equipping you with support and development opportunities is a vital part of delivering an exceptional employment experience.
Find a fulfilling career and make a difference with UnityPoint Health.
Responsibilities
Clinical Excellence/Patient Education:
Manage patient caseload as assigned which may include inpatient, residential, outpatient, and continuing care patients/clients
Clinical Excellence/Patient Care:
Provides direct counseling services to patients including but not limited to, individual counseling, group therapy, and didactic presentations.
Care Coordination:
Determines individual treatment plan for each patient by conducting a counselor assessment interview and shares this information through treatment plan entries and reassessments.
Collaborates with physicians and other team members to achieve optimal patient outcomes through regular attendance at daily staffing.
Qualifications
Education: Bachelor's degree in a Behavioral Health field or Associate Degree with equivalent education and/or work experience Required.
Experience: Specialized training in chemical dependence counseling and experience working in the substance abuse field.
License(s)/Certification(s): CADC (Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor) Required. Valid driver's license when driving any vehicle for work-related reasons.
Knowledge/Skills/Abilities: Must be able to perform with proficiency and possess effective communication skills. Must possess the ability to work independently, exercise good judgment and to make competent decisions in stressful situations.
Other: Use of usual and customary equipment used to perform essential functions of the position.

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About UnityPoint Health

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

At UnityPoint Health, we provide care in nine regions throughout Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin. As the nation's fourth largest nondenominational health system in America, UnityPoint Health keeps people at the center of all we do. We are looking for dynamic and talented individuals to join our team. You'll find opportunities for every sized dream.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

West Des Moines, IA, US

Year founded

1995

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