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Chemical Dependency Counselor Jobs in Rochester, NY

Outpatient Counselor - Therapist

Rochester, NY · On-site

$19.45 - $37.50/hr

  • Retirement

Job Type Full-time Description Outpatient Counselor, Therapist I or II - *Sign On Bonus Eligible ... Associate's degree in chemical Dependency or related field with 1 year of applicable experience ...

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Chemical Dependency Counselor information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$11

$23

$34

How much do chemical dependency counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 16, 2026, the average hourly pay for chemical dependency counselor in Rochester, NY is $23.08, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.99 and $26.11 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 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 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.

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 are the most commonly searched types of Chemical Dependency Counselor jobs in Rochester, NY?

The most popular types of Chemical Dependency Counselor jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What job categories do people searching Chemical Dependency Counselor jobs in Rochester, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for Chemical Dependency Counselor jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Chemical Dependency Counselor jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Chemical Dependency Counselor job openings:

Infographic showing various Chemical Dependency Counselor job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% Internship, 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 15% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,006 per year, or $23.1 per hour.

School-Based Chemical Dependency Prevention Counselor

Center for Youth Services

Rochester, NY

$20 - $22/hr

Full-time

Posted yesterday

New


Job description

The Center for Youth: Started BY YOUTH FOR YOUTH. We partner with youth to realize their full potential, by creating opportunities, removing barriers and promoting social justice.

Overview:

The CD Prevention Counselor is responsible for providing school-based crisis intervention, prevention counseling (individual, family and group) and case management services to youth. They are responsible for conducting comprehensive assessments with the student that may identify any issues related to substance use/abuse, problem gambling and other risk factors that inhibit healthy youth development, and provide support for problem solving and referral services. Based upon assessment, the Counselor will develop an Individual Service Plan with a youth that includes the direct services provided by the Counselor, school staff, as well as referral linkages to other community agencies and school services. The Counselor will work with faculty, staff and partner agencies to assure quality services are provided. The Counselor will attend school meetings, referral meetings, and when appropriate, school events. The Counselor will also coordinate and facilitate groups, workshops and trainings as needed and requested.

SCHEDULE: Full time, 35 hours per week, 11-month position

LOCATION: TBD

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND EXAMPLE OF DUTIES:

  • Intake and Assessment, Individual and Family Prevention Counseling, Assessment of substance use/abuse, problem gambling and other risk factors
  • Crisis Intervention/Triage
  • Case Management
  • Agency Ambassador and Liaison at Referral Team Meetings, Partner Meetings, Open Houses, Health Fairs
  • Youth Advocacy
  • Transportation for program participants when necessary and consistent with agency and school policy
  • Other duties as assigned

QUALIFICATIONS:

Bachelor's Degree with minimum one year of counseling experience or equivalent combination of education and experience. Note: A Master's degree, CPP/ICSP/CASAC, advanced training in chemical dependency prevention-related areas is preferred.

PAYRATE: $20-$22 per hour

The Center for Youth provides equal opportunities for employment.

(Rev. 08/26)