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Drug Alcohol Trainee Counselor Jobs in Springfield, MA

Residential Counselor Work Location: Springfield, MA Full time and Part Time availabilities *Bilingual Candidates Encouraged to Apply *EOE M/F/D/V *Union/Non-Union Job Summary: To work within the DDS ...

Substance use Counselor

Westfield, MA · On-site

$21.60 - $24/hr

Certifications include CAC (Certified Addiction Counselor), CADC (Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor), or CADC II or Massachusetts state LADC II * Previous experience working with chemically ...

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Substance Abuse Counselor

Chicopee, MA · On-site

$25.20 - $28/hr

Certifications include CAC (Certified Addiction Counselor), CADC (Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor), or CADC II or Massachusetts state LADC II * Previous experience working with chemically ...

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Drug Alcohol Trainee Counselor information

See Springfield, MA salary details

$13

$25

$36

How much do drug alcohol trainee counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for drug alcohol trainee counselor in Springfield, MA is $25.15, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.66 and $28.75 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectDrug Alcohol Trainee CounselorSubstance Abuse Counselor
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; ongoing trainingCertification or license often required; relevant degrees
Work EnvironmentInternship or supervised setting, entry-levelClinics, rehab centers, or hospitals
Employer & Industry UsageTraining role within addiction servicesProfessional role providing treatment

The main difference is that a Drug Alcohol Trainee Counselor is an entry-level position focused on gaining experience and training, while a Substance Abuse Counselor is a licensed professional providing direct treatment. Trainees work under supervision, whereas licensed counselors operate independently. Both roles are essential in addiction treatment settings, but the Trainee role is a stepping stone toward becoming a fully licensed Substance Abuse Counselor.

What is a drug alcohol trainee counselor?

A Drug Alcohol Trainee Counselor is an individual who is in the process of receiving training and supervision to provide counseling and support services to people struggling with substance abuse. They typically work under the guidance of a licensed or certified counselor while gaining the necessary experience and education to become fully certified. Their duties may include conducting intake interviews, assisting with treatment planning, facilitating group sessions, and providing resources to clients. The trainee counselor plays a crucial role in helping clients begin their recovery journey while ensuring all actions adhere to ethical and legal standards. This position is often a stepping stone to becoming a certified or licensed substance abuse counselor.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a drug alcohol trainee counselor?

To thrive as a Drug Alcohol Trainee Counselor, you need foundational knowledge of addiction counseling, strong interpersonal skills, and typically a relevant degree or progress toward certification. Familiarity with case management software, electronic health records, and counseling documentation systems is often required. Outstanding active listening, empathy, and cultural sensitivity set individuals apart in this role. These skills and qualifications are vital for building trust, supporting recovery, and ensuring effective treatment planning for clients struggling with substance use disorders.

What are some common challenges drug alcohol trainee counselors face during their initial months on the job?

Drug Alcohol Trainee Counselors often encounter challenges such as building trust with clients, managing emotionally charged situations, and adapting to the fast-paced environment of treatment facilities. New counselors may also find it demanding to balance documentation requirements with direct client care. However, most teams provide strong supervision and peer support, which helps trainees develop their counseling skills and confidence over time.
What job categories do people searching Drug Alcohol Trainee Counselor jobs in Springfield, MA look for? The top searched job categories for Drug Alcohol Trainee Counselor jobs in Springfield, MA are:
What cities near Springfield, MA are hiring for Drug Alcohol Trainee Counselor jobs? Cities near Springfield, MA with the most Drug Alcohol Trainee Counselor job openings:

Counselor-Case Manager

Behavioral Health Network, Inc.

Springfield, MA • On-site

$22.50 - $24/hr

Full-time

Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 13 days ago


Job description

Behavioral Health Network (BHN) is the largest provider of behavioral health services in Western Massachusetts and a Certified Great Place to Work. We were recently recognized by The Boston Globe as a Top 10 Employer in Massachusetts.
We are seeking Counselor-Case Managers to engage and support adults in early drug & alcohol addiction recovery at the Carlson Recovery Center program at Behavioral Health Network!
What We Offer:
  • Ability to support life-changing services for the local community
  • Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits
  • Educational Assistance opportunities
  • Excellent PTO
  • 403(b) retirement plan
  • Direct collaboration with program leadership
  • Ability to expand your knowledge of mental & behavioral health resources

What You'll Do:
At the Carlson Recovery Center, we believe in the unique strengths, skills, and empowerment of the individual to motivate their treatment and recovery from drug and/or alcohol addiction. In our 32-bed program, adults aged 18 and older who need CSS stabilization services can receive individualized recovery supports for up to 30 days.
As a Counselor-Case Manager, you will provide direct support and case management services to individuals served by promoting mental health, recovery, and overall well-being. This position assesses individuals' needs, develops service plans, coordinates care with interdisciplinary teams, and facilitates access to community resources.
Responsibilities include:
  • Supporting the growth, independence, and safety of the individuals they serve.
  • Overseeing and providing guidance and direct counseling.
  • Overseeing the activities and services provided to individuals to ensure compliance.
  • Completing assessments and developing individual treatment plans using knowledge of the range of addiction, dual diagnosis, medication assisted treatment issues, and aftercare planning, as well as the special needs, strengths and weaknesses of individuals served.
  • Meeting with individuals on the caseload regularly for one-on-one counseling.
  • Facilitating diverse psycho-educational groups for individuals served.
  • Documenting all notes regarding the care for individuals served, including admission, discharge, and aftercare planning information, in a timely fashion.
  • Recognizing and reporting licensing, funding, safety, and maintenance concerns.
  • Providing crisis intervention and emergency services, as needed.

What You'll Need:
  • Commitment to empowerment and growth, human rights, and community integration for individuals served.
  • Ability to understand, empathize, and work with an addicted, dually-diagnosed and/or MAT maintained population.
  • At least one year of experience working in substance treatment environment (required).
  • High School Diploma or G.E.D. equivalent (required); Associate's Degree or higher in related field (preferred).
  • Bilingual in Spanish & English (preferred).
  • Strong verbal & written communication skills.
  • Familiarity with Internet, word processing, and email systems.

We Hire for HEART!
Since 1938, BHN has delivered high-quality, culturally responsive behavioral health care across Western Massachusetts. Our core values - Humanity, Empowerment, Accountability, Respect, and Teamwork - guide how we lead, how we serve, and how we support one another.
If you're ready to support individuals on the road to addiction recovery, we encourage you to apply. Apply today at www.bhnworks.org !
BHN maintains its commitment to social justice and diversity and strongly encourages diverse candidates to apply.
All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
Anticipated Schedules:
Full Time: Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, & Friday, 10:00am-6:30pm
Pay Range:
$22.50/hr-$24/hr based on related experience
Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.