ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

Drug Addiction Counselor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Reno Alcohol & Drug Services

Be Seen First

Licensed Addiction Counselor/Licensed Master Addiction Counselor

Hutchinson, KS · On-site

$35K - $60K/yr

Counsels clients individually and in group sessions to assist client in overcoming alcohol and drug ... Prior Addictions Counseling: 1 year (Preferred) License: * LAC, LMAC, or LCAC (Required) * Job Type ...

New

Summit BHC

$44K - $59K/yr

The Counselor One provides treatment and support to assist clients in their recovery from addictions, such as alcoholism, drug addiction, or mental health disorders, assists with modifying problem ...

MedMark Treatment Centers

Addiction Counselor

Uniontown, PA · On-site

$42K - $56K/yr

Provide clinical services and patient care and education and opiate addiction counseling services ... Satisfactory drug screen and criminal background check. Benefits: * Competitive salary

baymark

Addiction Counselor

Uniontown, PA · On-site

$42K - $56K/yr

Provide clinical services and patient care and education and opiate addiction counseling services ... Satisfactory drug screen and criminal background check. Benefits: * Competitive salary

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsDrug Addiction Counselor Jobs

Drug Addiction Counselor information

See salary details

$32.5K

$54.2K

$71K

How much do drug addiction counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 18, 2026, the average yearly pay for drug addiction counselor in the United States is $54,226.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,500.00 and $61,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a drug addiction counselor do?

A Drug Addiction Counselor helps individuals struggling with substance abuse by providing guidance, support, and treatment planning. They conduct assessments, develop personalized recovery plans, and offer individual or group counseling sessions. Counselors also educate clients and their families about addiction, help them identify triggers, and teach coping strategies for long-term recovery. Additionally, they may coordinate with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive care.

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

To thrive as a Drug Addiction Counselor, you need a background in psychology, counseling, or social work, often supported by a relevant degree and state certification or licensure. Familiarity with assessment tools, treatment planning software, and evidence-based addiction intervention methods is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, active listening, and resilience help counselors build trust and support clients through challenging situations. These skills and qualifications are crucial for effectively guiding individuals toward recovery and ensuring positive treatment outcomes.

What are some common challenges drug addiction counselors face when supporting clients through recovery?

Drug Addiction Counselors often encounter challenges such as clients experiencing setbacks or relapses, resistance to treatment, and navigating complex emotional or mental health issues. Building trust with clients can take time, and counselors must use motivational interviewing and empathy to encourage progress. Additionally, collaborating with families, healthcare providers, and support groups is essential to create a comprehensive recovery plan. Continuous professional development and self-care are important to manage the emotional demands of the role.

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

AspectDrug Addiction CounselorSubstance Abuse Counselor
CredentialsCertification (e.g., CADC), relevant degreesCertification (e.g., CAC, CADC), relevant degrees
Work EnvironmentClinics, rehab centers, hospitalsCommunity agencies, outpatient programs, rehab centers
Industry UsageHealthcare, mental health servicesBehavioral health, social services
Common Search IntentDrug Addiction Counselor vs Substance Abuse Counselor

Both roles involve helping individuals overcome substance-related issues, often requiring similar certifications and working in healthcare or community settings. The terms are frequently used interchangeably, but 'Drug Addiction Counselor' specifically emphasizes addiction to drugs, while 'Substance Abuse Counselor' covers a broader range of substances, including alcohol and drugs.

How much do drug addiction counselors make a year?

Drug addiction counselors typically earn a median annual salary of around $40,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and work setting. Salaries can increase with additional certifications, advanced degrees, and specialized skills in counseling or therapy tools.

How to be a drug addiction counselor?

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

Is addiction counseling a good career?

Addiction counseling is a rewarding career that involves helping individuals recover from substance use disorders. It typically requires relevant education, certification, and strong interpersonal skills, and offers opportunities in healthcare, mental health, and social services settings. The profession can be emotionally demanding but provides meaningful work and job stability due to ongoing demand for addiction treatment services.

What degree is best for a drug addiction counselor?

A drug addiction counselor typically benefits from a bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, counseling, or a related field. Many employers prefer candidates with a master's degree in counseling or a similar discipline, along with relevant certification or licensure. Education combined with supervised experience and certification enhances job prospects in this field.
More about Drug Addiction Counselor jobs

What cities are hiring for Drug Addiction Counselor jobs?

Cities with the most Drug Addiction Counselor job openings:

What states have the most Drug Addiction Counselor jobs?

States with the most job openings for Drug Addiction Counselor jobs include:

What job categories do people searching Drug Addiction Counselor jobs look for?

The top searched job categories for Drug Addiction Counselor jobs are:

Drug Addiction Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drug Addiction Counselor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 94% Full Time, and 6% Part Time. Highlights an 94% In-person, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,226 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Licensed Drug Addiction Counselor - Henning TN

Amergis Healthcare Staffing

Henning, TN

$39K - $52K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Job description

The Licensed Addiction Counselor provides one on one drug and alcohol consultation to patients/clients; along with individual and group therapy in a variety of settings including inpatient and outpatient programs. The Licensed Addiction Counselor also provides crisis intervention and assists with behavioral health needs and issues including mental illness, developmental and learning disabilities, substance use, etc.

Minimum Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s degree in psychology, sociology, social work or public health required
  • Current license or certificate in addictions/substance abuse counseling in the state of assignment required
  • Experience in behavioral health guidelines, to include behavioral health assessments, individual and group therapy, clinical management of patients with mental illness and / or substance abuse issues preferred
  • Complies with all relevant professional standards of practice 
  • Current CPR if applicable
  • TB questionnaire, PPD or chest x-ray if applicable 
  • Current Health certificate (per contract or state regulation) 
  • Must meet all federal, state and local requirements 
  • Must be at least 18 years of age  

Apply