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Drug Addiction Counselor Jobs in Reston, VA (NOW HIRING)

Addiction Counselor

Rockville, MD ยท On-site

$48K - $64K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Avery House for Women and Children is seeking a compassionate Addiction Counselor to join our ... Minimum of Alcohol and Drug Trainee (ADT) status or one of the following Maryland credentials:

Addiction Counselor

Rockville, MD ยท On-site

$48K - $64K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

Avery House for Women and Children is seeking a compassionate Addiction Counselor to join our ... Minimum of Alcohol and Drug Trainee (ADT) status or one of the following Maryland credentials:

Certified Substance Abuse Counselor

Washington, DC ยท On-site

$61K - $66K/yr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The Licensed Addiction Counselor is responsible for the designs, develops, and implements all ... Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) certification or Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor ...

Substance Use Counselor

Washington, DC

$28.13 - $29.13/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Retirement

  • PTO

... addiction. Counselor conducts individual sessions and group sessions to assist with crisis ... Satisfactory criminal background check and drug screen Salary Range: Salary ranges from $28.13 to ...

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Showing results 1-20

Drug Addiction Counselor information

See Reston, VA salary details

$33.8K

$56.4K

$73.9K

How much do drug addiction counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 20, 2026, the average yearly pay for drug addiction counselor in Reston, VA is $56,414.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $47,300.00 and $63,500.00 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 Reston, VA?

For Drug Addiction Counselor jobs in Reston, VA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Drug Addiction Counselor jobs in Reston, VA look for?

The top searched job categories for Drug Addiction Counselor jobs in Reston, VA are:

What cities near Reston, VA are hiring for Drug Addiction Counselor jobs?

Cities near Reston, VA with the most Drug Addiction Counselor job openings:

Infographic showing various Drug Addiction Counselor job openings in Reston, VA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 93% Full Time, and 7% Part Time. Highlights an 93% In-person, and 7% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $56,414 per year, or $27.1 per hour.

Addiction Counselor

Maryland Treatment Centers, Inc.

Rockville, MD โ€ข On-site

$48K - $64K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Job Description:

Maryland Treatment Centers Inc. is a growing regional behavioral health provider focused on clinical excellence, innovation, and scholarship. We are a thriving center for treatment of addictions and co-occurring disorders. We offer a full continuum of care, including inpatient, residential, intensive outpatient, and outpatient services.

Avery House for Women and Children is seeking a compassionate Addiction Counselor to join our treatment team. In this role, you will provide individual, group, and family counseling services to women in early recovery while supporting clients as they work toward long-term recovery goals. This position offers the opportunity to make a meaningful difference while working in a collaborative, supportive behavioral health environment focused on quality care and client success.

Shift

  • Monday - Friday

What You’ll Do

  • Provide individual, group, and family counseling sessions focused on addiction-related topics and recovery support.
  • Engage clients experiencing substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health concerns with compassion and professionalism.
  • Complete client intakes, assessments, treatment planning, progress notes, discharge planning, and continuing care reviews.
  • Develop and maintain accurate and timely clinical documentation.
  • Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT).
  • Collaborate with treatment teams to support individualized client care.
  • Maintain communication with referral sources and outside agencies involved in client care, including child welfare, criminal justice systems, and housing programs.
  • Apply evidence-based counseling practices when working with clients with co-occurring disorders.
  • Participate in a team-based approach to promote client recovery and successful outcomes.

Why You’ll Love Working Here

  • Purpose-driven work that truly changes lives • Supportive, team-oriented culture focused on recovery and patient care
  • Opportunities for professional growth and career advancement
  • Strong commitment to clinical development and continuing education
  • Clinical supervision provided for eligible certifications and licensure
  • An organization that values collaboration, compassion, and high-quality care
  • Convenient location with easy access to Metro
  • Free parking available

What We’re Looking For

  • Associate’s degree or higher in Chemical Dependency, Counseling, Social Work, Psychology, Human Services, or a related field
  • Two to four years of experience in behavioral healthcare, specifically addictions or a related field
  • Minimum of Alcohol and Drug Trainee (ADT) status or one of the following Maryland credentials:
    • Licensed Graduate Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LGADC)
    • Licensed Graduate Professional Counselor (LGPC)
    • Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW)
    • Certified Associate Counselor–Alcohol and Drug (CAC-AD)
    • Certified Supervised Counselor–Alcohol and Drug (CSC-AD)
  • Strong counseling, assessment, and documentation skills
  • Ability to effectively engage clients with substance use and mental health concerns
  • Strong organizational skills and ability to manage multiple responsibilities
  • Commitment to providing compassionate, client-centered care

Bonus Points

  • Experience working with women and families in recovery
  • Knowledge of trauma-informed care practices
  • Strong ability to multitask
  • Ability to complete documentation accurately and within required timelines

What You’ll Get: Outstanding Benefits

  • Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • 401(k), life insurance, and supplemental insurance options
  • Generous PTO, paid vacation, and paid holidays
  • PTO includes Vacation, Personal, and Sick time—no more using vacation days when you’re sick
  • Robust tuition reimbursement and continuing education support
  • License and certification renewal reimbursement—we cover the cost
  • Company-paid CEUs
  • Supportive, mission-driven workplace with clear opportunities for growth
  • An organization deeply committed to work-life balance

Benefits:

  • 401(k) • Dental insurance
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Professional development assistance
  • Tuition reimbursement

Work Location: In person