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Chemical Dependency Counselor Intern 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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Chemical Dependency Counselor Intern information

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

As of Aug 27, 2026, the average hourly pay for chemical dependency counselor intern 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 does a chemical dependency counselor intern do?

A Chemical Dependency Counselor Intern works under the supervision of licensed counselors to assist individuals struggling with substance abuse and addiction. They help assess clients' needs, develop treatment plans, provide support during therapy sessions, and educate clients about recovery resources. Interns also gain hands-on experience by observing counseling sessions, documenting client progress, and participating in group therapy. This role is typically part of a training program required for full licensure as a chemical dependency counselor.

What types of supervision and support can a chemical dependency counselor intern expect during their internship?

As a Chemical Dependency Counselor Intern, you can expect to work under the direct supervision of a licensed counselor or clinical supervisor. Regular supervision sessions are common, providing a space to discuss client cases, ethical dilemmas, and receive feedback on counseling techniques. You'll often participate in team meetings with other counselors, social workers, and medical staff to coordinate client care. This supportive structure helps interns develop practical skills, build confidence, and ensures alignment with best practices in addiction counseling.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a chemical dependency counselor intern, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Chemical Dependency Counselor Intern, you generally need foundational knowledge in counseling techniques, addiction theory, and an educational background in psychology, social work, or a related field. Familiarity with case management systems, documentation practices, and sometimes progress toward relevant certifications (such as CADC or similar) is often expected. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, active listening, and the ability to build trust with clients are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies are important for effectively supporting clients’ recovery processes and ensuring ethical, client-centered care in substance abuse treatment environments.

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

AspectChemical Dependency Counselor InternSubstance Abuse Counselor
CredentialsOften in training or pursuing certificationTypically certified or licensed
Work EnvironmentInternship settings, clinics, rehab centersClinics, rehab centers, outpatient facilities
Employer & Industry UsageSupervised internship roles within addiction treatmentFull professional roles in addiction treatment
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding internship roles and requirementsSeeking licensed professional info

The main difference between a Chemical Dependency Counselor Intern and a Substance Abuse Counselor is that the intern is in training and gaining supervised experience, often working towards certification. In contrast, a licensed Substance Abuse Counselor has completed necessary credentials and can independently provide counseling services. Interns typically work under supervision in similar environments, but their roles are more educational and developmental, whereas licensed counselors are fully responsible for client care.

What cities are hiring for Chemical Dependency Counselor Intern jobs?

Cities with the most Chemical Dependency Counselor Intern 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 Intern jobs?

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

Infographic showing various Chemical Dependency Counselor Intern 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 16 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