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Drug Addiction Counselor Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA

All JobsDrug Addiction Counselor JobsDrug Addiction Counselor Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA

Drug Addiction Counselor information

See Baton Rouge, LA salary details

$31.2K

$52.1K

$68.2K

How much do drug addiction counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average yearly pay for drug addiction counselor in Baton Rouge, LA is $52,070.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $43,700.00 and $58,600.00 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.

What are popular job titles related to Drug Addiction Counselor jobs in Baton Rouge, LA?

For Drug Addiction Counselor jobs in Baton Rouge, LA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Drug Addiction Counselor jobs in Baton Rouge, LA look for?

The top searched job categories for Drug Addiction Counselor jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:

What cities near Baton Rouge, LA are hiring for Drug Addiction Counselor jobs?

Cities near Baton Rouge, LA with the most Drug Addiction Counselor job openings:

Drug Addiction Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drug Addiction Counselor job openings in Baton Rouge, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,070 per year, or $25 per hour.

Substance Abuse Counselor - Remote Opportunity

Behavioral Health Group

Baton Rouge, LA

$23 - $26/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Remote Counselor

Early morning / Set Schedule (Mon - Friday) 5:00am - 1:30pm

$23.00 - $26.00 per Hour

Hybrid Opportunity

Seeking the following requirements:

  • Master's Degree with PLPC, LMSW, LAC
  • Or bachelor's with CAC

As a Counselor at Behavioral Health Group (BHG), you will assist patients in identifying and leveraging their strengths to achieve social, educational, and occupational goals. You will help patients prepare for and adjust to a drug-free life, providing emotional and physical support for various challenges. Reporting to the Counselor Supervisor or Program Director, you will ensure adherence to schedules, program policies, and all regulatory requirements, performing duties within the scope of your license or certification.

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Conduct regular alcohol and drug abuse counseling sessions and group sessions as required.
  • Orient patients to treatment program operations and procedures.
  • Collect and assess social, educational, economic, and vocational information.
  • Develop and revise patient treatment plans, maintaining comprehensive records.
  • Make appropriate referrals and perform necessary follow-ups.
  • Assist in implementing new programs and advise on caseload management.
  • Provide in-service training to staff and hold a basic understanding of addiction.
  • Conduct intake/readmission services and provide supportive follow-up counseling.
  • Provide crisis intervention and inter-agency documentation.
  • Coordinate care with community providers as needed.
  • Participate in and provide in-service training required by federal, state, local, and accrediting agencies.
  • Attend conferences, meetings, and training programs.
  • Schedule and attend regular in-service training.
  • Perform OBOT services and report any work-related issues immediately.
  • Other duties as assigned by the supervisory team.
  • Comply with all federal, state, and local regulatory agency requirements.
  • Adhere to accrediting agency standards.
  • Participate in community and public relations activities as assigned.
  • Demonstrate a commitment to valuing diversity and contributing to an inclusive working and learning environment.

Minimum Requirements:

  • As per the requirements for your state, individuals with human service related (Masters or Bachelors) degrees and current counseling credentials should apply
  • Experience in behavioral health preferred, not required.
  • In addition to meeting the qualifications, the ideal candidate will embody the following characteristics and possess the knowledge, skills and abilities listed below:
    • Ability to make decisions and use proper judgment with confidential and sensitive issues
    • Ability to deal appropriately with patient and team members in stressful or other undesirable situations and to seek direction from supervisors when necessary
    • Must be able to react quickly and make effective decisions
    • Ability to demonstrate sufficient knowledge and understanding of human behavior to show potential for rehabilitating drug dependent patients
    • Knowledge of the substance abuse population, treatment planning and the field of human social services to work toward the rehabilitation of the patient community
    • Compliance with federal and state regulations regarding certification, licensure, and degree.

Why Join BHG?

  • Work-Life Balance: Enjoy generous paid time off, holidays, and personal needs. Benefit from flexible schedules with early in/early out hours, no nights, and no Sundays.
  • Investment in Your Growth: Prioritize your development with role-based training and advancement opportunities.
  • Comprehensive Benefits: Choose from three benefits programs, including health, life, vision, and dental insurance. Enjoy tuition reimbursement and 401K plan with discretionary match.
  • Recognition and Rewards: Experience competitive pay, quarterly bonuses, and incentives for certifications or licenses.
  • Employee Perks: Access exclusive discounts on various services and entertainment options, and benefit from our Employee Assistance Program and self-care series.

At BHG, we thrive on the greatness of our people. Join us and become part of a community that values excellence, integrity, and making a real difference in the lives of others.

BHG is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer providing equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, or any other legally protected basis, in accordance with applicable law.