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Drug Abuse Counselor Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

Naphcare, Inc.

Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Atlanta, GA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Must pass the facility's criminal background check and drug screening * A minimum of 3 years ... occurring substance abuse disorders, discharge planning, principles of social work, basic ...

NaphCare

Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Atlanta, GA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Must pass the facility's criminal background check and drug screening * A minimum of 3 years ... occurring substance abuse disorders, discharge planning, principles of social work, basic ...

Naphcare, Inc.

Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Atlanta, GA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Must pass the facility's criminal background check and drug screening * A minimum of 3 years ... occurring substance abuse disorders, discharge planning, principles of social work, basic ...

Naphcare, Inc.

Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Atlanta, GA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Must pass the facility's criminal background check and drug screening * A minimum of 3 years ... occurring substance abuse disorders, discharge planning, principles of social work, basic ...

NaphCare

Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Atlanta, GA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Must pass the facility's criminal background check and drug screening * A minimum of 3 years ... occurring substance abuse disorders, discharge planning, principles of social work, basic ...

Naphcare, Inc.

Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Atlanta, GA · On-site

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Must pass the facility's criminal background check and drug screening * A minimum of 3 years ... occurring substance abuse disorders, discharge planning, principles of social work, basic ...

CITY OF DECATUR

OST Counselor - 2026 - 2027

Decatur, GA · On-site

... drug screen. Education and Experience: * Must have one year of training and/or education or ... CPR, First Aid, and Prevent Child Abuse certifications or the ability to obtain within six months ...

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All JobsDrug Abuse Counselor JobsDrug Abuse Counselor Jobs in Decatur, GA

Drug Abuse Counselor information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$13

$24

$34

How much do drug abuse counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for drug abuse counselor in Decatur, GA is $24.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.87 and $28.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a drug abuse counselor?

A Drug Abuse Counselor is a trained professional who helps individuals struggling with substance abuse or addiction. They provide support, counseling, and treatment plans tailored to each client's needs, often working in rehabilitation centers, hospitals, or private practices. Their goal is to help clients understand the root causes of their addiction, develop coping strategies, and achieve long-term recovery. Drug Abuse Counselors may also work with families and provide education about substance abuse prevention and recovery resources.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a drug abuse counselor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Drug Abuse Counselor, you need a background in psychology or counseling, often supported by a relevant degree and state certification or licensure. Familiarity with clinical assessment tools, case management software, and evidence-based treatment modalities such as CBT and motivational interviewing is typical. Strong interpersonal skills, active listening, and nonjudgmental communication help build trust and rapport with clients. These skills and qualifications are crucial for effectively supporting clients' recovery journeys and promoting long-term behavioral change.

What are some common challenges faced by drug abuse counselors, and how can applicants prepare for them?

Drug Abuse Counselors often encounter challenges such as managing emotionally intense situations, supporting clients through relapses, and maintaining professional boundaries while building trust. Applicants should be prepared for high-stress environments and practice self-care to prevent burnout. Gaining experience with crisis intervention, developing strong communication skills, and participating in regular supervision or peer support groups can help counselors navigate these challenges effectively.

What is the difference between Drug Abuse Counselor vs Substance Abuse Counselor?

AspectDrug Abuse CounselorSubstance Abuse Counselor
CredentialsState certification, CADC or CACState certification, CADC or CAC
Work EnvironmentRehabilitation centers, clinics, hospitalsRehabilitation centers, clinics, hospitals
Industry UsageCommonly used in healthcare and addiction treatmentOften used interchangeably with Drug Abuse Counselor

Both roles typically require similar certifications and work in similar environments. The terms are often used interchangeably, focusing on helping individuals overcome substance-related issues. The main difference is often regional or institutional terminology, but their responsibilities and qualifications largely overlap.

How to be a drug abuse counselor?

To become a drug abuse counselor, you typically need a relevant bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, or a related field, along with specialized training in addiction counseling. Many states require certification or licensure, such as the Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), which involves completing supervised work hours and passing an exam. Strong communication skills, empathy, and knowledge of addiction treatment methods are essential for success in this role.

Is it worth becoming a drug abuse counselor?

A drug abuse counselor helps individuals recover from substance use disorders by providing therapy, support, and education. The role often requires relevant certifications, strong communication skills, and empathy, with job growth driven by increasing awareness of addiction issues and mental health services.

What degree is best for a drug abuse counselor?

A drug abuse counselor typically benefits from a bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, counseling, or a related field. Many employers prefer or require a master's degree in counseling, psychology, or social work for advanced positions and licensure. Certification and training in addiction counseling are also important for career advancement.

What are popular job titles related to Drug Abuse Counselor jobs in Decatur, GA?

For Drug Abuse Counselor jobs in Decatur, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Drug Abuse Counselor jobs in Decatur, GA look for?

The top searched job categories for Drug Abuse Counselor jobs in Decatur, GA are:

What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Drug Abuse Counselor jobs?

Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Drug Abuse Counselor job openings:

Drug Abuse Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drug Abuse Counselor job openings in Decatur, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,724 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Naphcare, Inc.

Atlanta, GA • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago

NaphCare rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 49 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

641st of 888 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Overview
NaphCare is seeking to hire an experienced Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LCSW, LCMHC, etc.) to join our team of medical professionals in the Fulton County Jail in Atlanta, GA.
As a Correctional Licensed Mental Health Counselor, you will work alongside correctional officers and other medical professionals to provide counseling and mental health care to the individuals in residence. Working within a controlled environment, where security is top priority and the days are never dull, you will have various duties to keep you engaged. This is a unique position where you can make a difference to this diverse population of patients with complex mental health and medical needs.
There are day, evening, and weekend shifts available.
Responsibilities
The Licensed Mental Health Counselor is responsible for assessing, diagnosing, and treating patients in residence with mental illnesses, substance use disorders, and behavioral issues ensuring they receive quality care that protects their rights, dignity and health. Duties and responsibilities may include and are not limited to:
  • Collaborating with medical, mental health and correctional staff to enhance quality patient care while maintaining a safe and secure work environment
  • Performing and documenting mental health evaluations, progress notes, individual and group counseling notes, individual treatment plans, addressing criminogenic needs and promoting positive behavioral change to prepare residents for release
  • Participating in educational and training activities related to mental health care for patients, security personnel, and healthcare staff
  • Demonstrate knowledge of DSM-V / DSM-V-TR criteria
  • Documenting and managing case files, patient progress, preparing reports, and participating in hearings
  • Initiating and/or participating in patient education and treatment programs, such as developing educational materials and providing group therapy
  • Monitoring compliance with site-specific and company policies and procedures, taking appropriate corrective action, and ensuring compliance with ACA, NCCHC standards

Qualifications
Experience / Skills / Requirements
  • Master's prepared Mental Health Professional with active, unrestricted licensure as a (LCSW, LCMHC, LMFT, LMHP, LISW, etc.) in Georgia
  • Must possess an active BLS CPR Certification (American Heart Association preferred)
  • Must pass the facility's criminal background check and drug screening
  • A minimum of 3 years' clinical experience in a mental health care or acute care setting, with correctional healthcare experience preferred
  • Must have knowledge and experience in the identification and treatment of mental health and co-occurring substance abuse disorders, discharge planning, principles of social work, basic principles of individual and group behavior, and a working knowledge of psychotropic medications
  • Correctional counselors must be able to remain calm under pressure while assess patients' situations, underlying causes of their behavior and be able to develop interventions and treatment plans
  • Effective communications skills are required for building patient rapport and relaying information and treatment plan with other medical and mental health care professionals
  • Strong organizational skills are needed to keep track of patient treatment plans and progress notes
  • Must have the ability to maintain confidentiality of all proprietary and/or confidential information and integrity, professionalism and ability to adhere to a Code of Conduct and comply with all facility(s) correctional healthcare policies, procedures, and legal requirements
  • Must pass the facility's criminal background check and drug screening

Physical Capabilities:
Must have the ability to stand for long periods, lift and move patients (up to 50 pounds), bend, squat, reach, push, pull, walk significant distances, and perform physically demanding tasks like CPR, all while maintaining good balance and endurance throughout a shift.
Why Join NaphCare?
NaphCare is one of the largest providers of healthcare services to correctional facilities throughout the US, and we are growing. If you have never considered a career in correctional healthcare, now may be the time. In addition to competitive salaries and generous employee benefits, we strongly support career advancement within the company.
NaphCare Benefits for Full-Time Employees Include:
  • Health, dental & vision insurance that starts day one!
  • Prescriptions free of charge through our health plan, beginning day one
  • Lowest Cost Benefits!
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) services
  • 401K and Roth with company contribution that starts day one!
  • Tuition Assistance
  • Referral bonuses
  • Term life insurance at no cost to the employee
  • Generous paid time off & paid holidays
  • Free continuing education and CMEs

Want a better idea of what it's like to work in a jail? See what our MHPs do:
NaphCare - Life as a Mental Health Professional - YouTube
If you would like to speak with me to learn more about this position and NaphCare, apply directly to the position to initiate the application process, and I'll be in touch.
Equal Opportunity Employer: disability/veteran
Follow Us: Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn | Advancing Correctional Healthcare | NaphCare

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About NaphCare

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

NaphCare partners with correctional facilities to provide proactive, patient-focused healthcare. We recognize that we serve a unique and diverse patient population, and our onsite teams take pride in bringing excellence in care to a population in great need. Be part of a world-class team of professionals who are revolutionizing correctional healthcare. NaphCare offers competitive compensation! Our full-time teammates have a top-notch benefits package, which includes medical, dental, vision, FREE prescriptions, flexible spending account, company-paid life and AD&D insurance with voluntary life and AD&D options, ST & LT disability, 401(k) company contribution, 20 days Paid Time Off, paid holidays, tuition assistance, employee referral bonuses, etc.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Birmingham, AL, US

Year founded

1989

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