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Drug Abuse Counselor Jobs in Rochester, NY (NOW HIRING)

Endeavor Health Services

Program Assistant

Rochester, NY · On-site

$18.13 - $22.66/hr

... sexual abuse prevention program. The PROGRAM ASSISTANT functions as a member of the clinic ... Coordinate and complete drug screens for clients. * Assist counselors with documentation according ...

Endeavor Health Services

Program Assistant

Rochester, NY · On-site

$18/hr

... sexual abuse prevention program. The PROGRAM ASSISTANT functions as a member of the clinic ... Coordinate and complete drug screens for clients. * Assist counselors with documentation according ...

CDS

Staff Pharmacist- Per Diem

Webster, NY · On-site

$54.75 - $64.25/hr

Providing patient/ clients with counseling and education * Monitoring storage, distribution, and ... Operating the state prescription drug monitoring program * Properly disposing of hazardous waste ...

CDS Monarch, Inc.

Staff Pharmacist- Per Diem

Webster, NY · On-site

$60/hr

Providing patient/ clients with counseling and education * Monitoring storage, distribution, and ... Operating the state prescription drug monitoring program * Properly disposing of hazardous waste ...

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All JobsDrug Abuse Counselor JobsDrug Abuse Counselor Jobs in Rochester, NY

Drug Abuse Counselor information

See Rochester, NY salary details

$13

$25

$35

How much do drug abuse counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average hourly pay for drug abuse counselor in Rochester, NY is $25.13, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.11 and $28.46 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 Rochester, NY?

For Drug Abuse Counselor jobs in Rochester, NY, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Drug Abuse Counselor jobs in Rochester, NY look for?

The top searched job categories for Drug Abuse Counselor jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Drug Abuse Counselor jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Drug Abuse Counselor job openings:

Drug Abuse Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drug Abuse Counselor job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 90% Full Time, and 10% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,272 per year, or $25.1 per hour.

Substance Abuse Counselor

Rochester, NY • On-site

Action for a Better Community, Inc.
Individual, Family and Community Social Assistance • 201 - 500 employees
Learn more about Action for a Better Community, Inc.external

$35K - $48K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 23 days ago

Job description

Program: New Directions
Location: 33 Chestnut Street
Position: Substance Abuse Counselor
Hours: 37.5 hrs/wk, 52 weeks/year
Salary Range: $35,409 - $48,333 annually
Summary of Responsibilities:
Plans and facilitates group-counseling sessions for clients, including an active caseload of up to thirty (30) individuals. Develops and implements treatment plans for clients. Appropriately provides individual counseling. Advocates and coordinates the treatment needs of clients with collateral entities such as that drug court, parole/probation, halfway houses, etc. Attends and maintains continuing education, training, and other professional activities per state guidelines in order to retain necessary certification (CASAC).
Qualifications/Education and Experience:
  • Bachelor's Degree preferred in Counseling, Human Services, Sociology or Social Work.
  • May consider Associates Degree with good combination of education and experience.
  • Minimum of two years of experience performing counseling duties in the fields of substance abuse or mental health treatment and rehabilitation.
  • Working knowledge in the fields of counseling theory, treatment planning, medical aspects of chemical dependency, or pharmacology.
  • Current CASAC certification preferred or must be eligible to take the exam, or current CASAC-T certification or must be eligible to take the exam, and must have completed the 350 educational hours required for CASAC applications.
  • Advanced level knowledge of substance abuse issues, the 12 core competencies and life areas as identified by OASAS 822 rules and regulations.
  • Ability to conduct patient evaluations, and develop treatment plans.
  • Working knowledge of motivational interviewing and in-depth knowledge of the stages of change and how to apply the knowledge in a treatment setting.
  • Experience working with ex-offenders, victims of domestic violence, individuals with disorders (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder).
  • Ability to identify mental health disorders and co-occurring disorders.
  • Must possess the ability to operate Microsoft Office documents and interoffice software package.
  • Ability to use TIER Client Management System preferred
  • All employees of ABC's New Directions Program must receive and maintain a full clearance from the Justice Center of New York that allows them unsupervised contact with clients (at the Agency's expense). Any prospective or current employee who has an indication of abuse, maltreatment, or neglect, or who cannot be left unsupervised with clients, will not be hired or retained.

The above description covers the principle functions of the job. It is not intended to be a complete listing of all the miscellaneous incidental or substantially similar duties, which may be assigned during normal or emergency operations.
Please Forward Resumes/Applications to:
Human Resources Department
Action for a Better Community, Inc.
400 West Ave
Rochester, New York 14611
Email: hrdept@abcinfo.org
(585) 325-5116
EOE
Deadline for Resumes/Applications: Open until filled

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