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MnTC

Alcohol & Drug Counselor

Minneapolis, MN · On-site

$61K - $64K/yr

Current alcohol and drug counseling license in the state of Minnesota. * Complete continuing education courses in current treatment concepts and methods as required by the state of Minnesota to ...

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How much do drug counseling jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for drug counseling in the United States is $25.24, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.71 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is drug counseling?

Drug counseling is a professional service that helps individuals who are struggling with substance abuse or addiction. Counselors work with clients to identify the underlying causes of their substance use, develop coping strategies, and create personalized treatment plans. They may provide one-on-one therapy, group sessions, and support for families. The goal of drug counseling is to support recovery and promote healthier lifestyles.

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

To thrive as a Drug Counselor, you need a solid understanding of addiction, counseling techniques, and treatment planning, typically supported by a degree in psychology or counseling and relevant state licensure or certification. Familiarity with case management software, documentation systems, and evidence-based therapeutic modalities is often required. Exceptional listening skills, empathy, and cultural sensitivity help build trust and rapport with clients navigating recovery. These skills ensure clients receive effective support and guidance, leading to better treatment outcomes and long-term sobriety.

What are some common challenges faced by drug counselors when supporting clients through recovery?

Drug counselors often encounter challenges such as client relapse, resistance to treatment, and co-occurring mental health disorders. Building trust with clients can take time, especially if they have had negative experiences with previous interventions. Counselors also need to balance empathy with maintaining professional boundaries and self-care, as the emotional demands of the role can be significant. Collaboration with other healthcare professionals and ongoing training are essential for navigating these challenges effectively.

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

AspectDrug CounselingSubstance Abuse Counselor
CredentialsOften requires certification or licensure, such as CADC or LPCRequires similar certifications, often including CADC or state licensure
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, rehab centers, community health programsRehab centers, outpatient clinics, correctional facilities, community agencies
Industry UsageCommonly used term for professionals providing addiction supportMore specific role focusing on addiction treatment and recovery
Search IntentPeople looking for addiction support or counseling servicesIndividuals seeking addiction treatment or counseling careers

Drug Counseling and Substance Abuse Counselor roles often overlap, with both requiring similar credentials and working in addiction treatment settings. The term "Drug Counseling" is broader, encompassing various support services, while "Substance Abuse Counselor" specifically refers to professionals specializing in addiction recovery. Both roles aim to help individuals overcome substance dependence and improve their well-being.

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 communication skills, with job growth driven by increasing awareness of mental health and addiction issues. The role often involves working in clinical or community settings and may require ongoing training to stay current with treatment methods.

What degree is best for a drug counseling?

A bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, counseling, or a related field is typically required for drug counseling positions. Many employers prefer candidates with a master's degree in counseling, addiction studies, or social work, along with relevant certifications such as Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC).

What do you have to do to be a drug counselor?

To become a drug counselor, you typically need to obtain a relevant degree such as a bachelor's or master's in addiction counseling, psychology, or social work. 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 and knowledge of addiction treatment are essential for the role.
More about Drug Counseling jobs

What cities are hiring for Drug Counseling jobs?

Cities with the most Drug Counseling job openings:

What states have the most Drug Counseling jobs?

States with the most job openings for Drug Counseling jobs include:

What are popular job titles for Drug Counseling?

Popular job titles for Drug Counseling:

Drug Counseling jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drug Counseling job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 76% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,492 per year, or $25.2 per hour.

Alcohol & Drug Counselor

Minneapolis, MN • On-site

MN Adult & Teen Challenge
Non-Profits • 501 - 1,000 employees
Learn more about MN Adult & Teen Challengeexternal

$61K - $64K/yr

Other

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Mpls - Portland Building
1619 Portland Ave
Minneapolis, MN 55404, USA

Mpls - Portland Building
1619 Portland Ave
Minneapolis, MN 55404, USA

Be the backbone of hope and healing. At Minnesota Adult & Teen Challenge, every role matters in helping people overcome addiction and find a new path forward. Whether you’re working directly with clients or supporting behind the scenes, your contributions make recovery possible. In return, we offer a values-driven workplace, supportive managers, and opportunities to grow. That commitment has earned us recognition from Newsweek as a Best Addiction Treatment Center and seven straight Star Tribune Top Workplace awards.

$5000 Hiring Incentive!

Job Summary

The Alcohol and Drug Counselor plays an important role in the delivery of treatment services to clients and is responsible for ensuring that all clients receive services mandated by the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS). In addition, counselors provide essential services to support achievement of effective personal development by working with clients individually or in group settings to identify and resolve issues including substance use, mental health, personal and/or emotional challenges, including family issues.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential job duty satisfactorily. The essential functions include the following:

  • Evaluate and modify program design for the purpose of meeting licensure requirements and needs of clients.
    Complete a comprehensive assessment and an assessment summary of the client's problematic chemical use within five calendar days after service initiation, utilizing ASAM criteria.
  • Provide an individual treatment plan after completion of the comprehensive assessment which is subject to amendment until services to the client are terminated. The individual treatment plan must include treatment goals, specific methods to be used to address identified problems, resources to which the client is being referred, and client goals.
  • Provide case management/file documentation for individual caseload, noting all treatment related activities and services in an accurate, professional, and timely manner including assessment of chemical use and mental health problems.
  • Create and monitor individualized treatment plans, provide group therapy and individual counseling services to individuals with co-occurring chemical use and mental health problems.
  • Facilitate groups regarding the disease of addiction and the recovery process consistent with maintaining good mental health.
  • Facilitate psychoeducation in a lecture style to clients on topics related to addiction and recovery.
  • Responsible for complying with federal and state statutes, upholding ethical standards established and implied by the profession, DHS regulations, etc.
  • Participate in weekly treatment team meetings to review and update client progress notes.
  • Initiate and maintain ongoing communication with client referrals, probation, and social service agencies, etc.
  • Complete discharge summaries for each client at the conclusion of treatment services.

Required Skills & Experience (Minimum Qualifications):

  • Current alcohol and drug counseling license in the state of Minnesota.
  • Complete continuing education courses in current treatment concepts and methods as required by the state of Minnesota to maintain alcohol and drug counselor license.
  • Must be at least 21 years of age or older.
  • At least 1 year of freedom from problematic substances.
  • Must be comfortable working with people with life-controlling challenges, including mental health and addiction.
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to effectively manage time.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to interact with clients, staff, and leadership.
  • The ability to live and work by MnTC’s culture of honor & core values – practicing compassion, honor, respect, integrity, servanthood, and trust.
  • Must be able to meet specific requirements for licensure outlined in Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health & Therapy. Reference: BHHT LADC Licensure Requirements
  • Must be able to meet specific staff requirements outlined in Minnesota Statutes 245G.11. Reference: Sec. 245G.11 MN Statutes

Physical Requirements:

  • Able to stand and walk frequently during shift.
  • Able to climb up and down multiple flights of stairs several times during a regular shift.
  • Must be able to lift up to 15 pounds at a time.

Target Compensation (Negotiable based on Qualifications)

LADC: $61,000-64,000

ADC-T: $57,000-$61,000

We seek to recruit, develop and retain the most talented people from a diverse candidate pool in order to successfully meet our mission of helping every Minnesotan find help and healing from addiction.

Mn Adult & Teen Challenge is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate based on any category protected by federal, state or applicable laws.

Reasonable accommodation is provided upon request.

Qualifications Skills Behaviors Motivations Preferred Ability to Make an Impact

Inspired to perform well by the ability to contribute to the success of a project or the organization

Education Experience Licenses & Certifications Required

LADC

Equal Opportunity Employer
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.

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