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Drug Counselor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

EOSIS

Alcohol & Drug Counselor

Sauk Rapids, MN

$58K - $62K/yr

As a full time Alcohol & Drug Counselor - Temporary at EOSIS EOSIS Bridge in Sauk Rapids, MN, you'll have the unique opportunity to support individuals during one of the most vulnerable--and ...

Eosis

Alcohol & Drug Counselor

Sauk Rapids, MN · On-site

$29 - $33/hr

As a full time Alcohol & Drug Counselor - Temporary at EOSIS EOSIS Bridge in Sauk Rapids, MN, you'll have the unique opportunity to support individuals during one of the most vulnerable-and ...

County of Napa

Alcohol & Drug Counselor III

Napa, CA · On-site

$95K - $113K/yr

Alcohol & Drug Counselor III conducts more complex individual, family and group counseling services to clients involved in alcohol and drug abuse programs; to research, prepare and deliver ...

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Drug Counselor information

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$34

How much do drug counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for drug counselor in the United States is $23.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.47 and $26.20 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectDrug CounselorSubstance Abuse Counselor
CredentialsState certification, often a license or certification in addiction counselingSimilar credentials, often requiring certification or licensure in addiction or mental health counseling
Work EnvironmentRehabilitation centers, clinics, hospitals, community agenciesRehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, mental health facilities
Industry UsageCommonly used term in healthcare and addiction treatment settingsOften used interchangeably, but sometimes broader, including mental health aspects
Search & Comparison IntentPeople comparing roles, certifications, or job duties in addiction treatmentIndividuals seeking similar roles or understanding differences in addiction counseling careers

Both Drug Counselors and Substance Abuse Counselors typically hold similar credentials and work in addiction treatment settings. The terms are often used interchangeably, with slight variations in emphasis. Understanding these differences can help job seekers find the right role aligned with their certifications and career goals.

What is a Drug Counselor?

A Drug Counselor is a professional who helps individuals struggling with substance abuse or addiction issues. They provide support, guidance, and therapy to help clients understand their addiction, develop coping strategies, and work toward recovery. Drug Counselors may work in rehabilitation centers, hospitals, community health organizations, or private practices. Their responsibilities often include conducting assessments, developing treatment plans, facilitating group or individual counseling sessions, and providing education to clients and their families. Their ultimate goal is to support clients in overcoming addiction and leading healthier, substance-free lives.

What are some common challenges drug counselors face when working with clients in recovery programs?

Drug counselors often encounter challenges such as helping clients maintain motivation during difficult periods, addressing relapse incidents without judgment, and balancing empathy with professional boundaries. They may also work with clients who have co-occurring mental health disorders, which can complicate treatment plans. Effective counselors use evidence-based strategies and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams—including social workers, medical professionals, and family members—to provide comprehensive support and improve client outcomes.

Is it hard to become a drug counselor?

Becoming a drug counselor typically requires completing a relevant education program, such as a bachelor's or master's degree in counseling, social work, or a related field, along with obtaining state licensure or certification. The process involves gaining practical experience through supervised internships and developing strong interpersonal skills, but the difficulty varies depending on individual educational background and local licensing requirements.

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 background in psychology or counseling, knowledge of addiction treatment, and often state licensure or certification. Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems, assessment tools, and treatment planning software is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, active listening, and compassion help build trust and motivate clients through recovery. These skills are crucial for providing effective support, ensuring compliance with treatment protocols, and fostering positive outcomes for individuals struggling with substance abuse.

What are two skills required for a substance abuse counselor?

A substance abuse counselor must have strong communication skills to effectively support clients and active listening abilities to understand their needs. Empathy and problem-solving skills are also essential for helping clients develop coping strategies and achieve recovery goals.

What is the highest paid addiction counselor?

The highest paid addiction counselors are often those with advanced certifications, extensive experience, and specialized skills, such as clinical supervisors or program directors. Salaries can reach over $70,000 annually, especially in private practice or high-demand healthcare settings. Factors like location and employer also influence compensation levels.

How much does a drug counselor make per year?

A drug counselor's annual salary typically ranges from $35,000 to $55,000, depending on experience, education, and location. Certified counselors with advanced training or working in specialized settings may earn higher wages.
More about Drug Counselor jobs
What cities are hiring for Drug Counselor jobs? Cities with the most Drug Counselor job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Drug Counselor jobs? The most popular types of Drug Counselor jobs are:
What states have the most Drug Counselor jobs? States with the most job openings for Drug Counselor jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Drug Counselor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Drug Counselor jobs are:
Drug Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Drug Counselor job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 75% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,812 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Alcohol & Drug Counselor

EOSIS

Sauk Rapids, MN

$58K - $62K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement

Re-posted 16 days ago

Job description

Why You’ll Love this Alcohol & Drug Counselor - Trainee Job! 
 
Are you passionate about helping others navigate life’s toughest challenges? As a full time Alcohol & Drug Counselor - Temporary at EOSIS EOSIS Bridge  in Sauk Rapids, MN, you’ll have the unique opportunity to support individuals during one of the most vulnerable—and courageous—moments in their lives. 
 
Under the supervision of a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor, this position is responsible for providing chemical health education and therapeutic interventions to assist client’s recovery relating to chemical health. 
 
Pay: $29 - $33 / hour   
Shift: Full-Time, 1st Shift  
 
Why EOSIS?  
  • Time Off: 20 days of paid-time-off + 6 paid holidays 
  • Insurance: Health, dental, and vision insurance + HSA/FSA 
  • Education: Tuition reimbursement and discounted tuition at select colleges 
  • Future Planning: 401(k) – ROTH and traditional options 
  • Career Path Opportunities 
  • Discount with Verizon Cell Phone Plans 
  • Clinical license reimbursement available. Tuition reimbursement available for most Human Service fields.
 Each day, you’ll help rebuild lives by making a real impact on people recovering from addiction and mental health challenges. With approachable leaders who listen, support, and encourage growth, you’ll experience what it means to be rising together in your career. A strong culture of care, where team members look out for one another and stand together through challenges, keeps you rooted in teamwork as you do meaningful, life-changing work.
Ready to help clients build healthy routines and find their path to lasting recovery? Join EOSIS EOSIS Bridge  as a full time Alcohol & Drug Counselor-Temporary in Sauk Rapids, MN, and be a steady source of support and guidance. Apply today and make a difference where it matters most! Responsibilitieshe following duties are normal for this position. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned. 
  • Learning and perfecting skills the 12 core functions: 
    • Screening 
    • Intake 
    • Orientation 
    • Assessment 
    • Treatment planning 
    • Group and individual counseling 
    • Case management 
    • Crisis intervention 
    • Client education 
    • Referral 
    • Reports and recordkeeping 
    • Consultations with other professionals regarding client treatment and services 
  • Knowledge of Minnesota Matrix Six Dimension 
  • Assists clients in maintaining county or 3rd party payer mechanisms and for communicating clinical criteria to payers for appropriate services. 
  • Obtain authorization for funding. 
  • Maintain Temporary license. 
  • The ADC-T may not admit, transfer, or discharge clients, except under the direction and supervision of their supervisor. They may be directed to follow through with the process of implementation of the above by the director or designee, which will then be reviewed and signed off. 
  • Attend all staff in services and meetings. 
  • Other duties as assigned 
Required SkillsRequired: 
  • The individual will have a Temporary Permit issued by the Minnesota Board of Behavioral Health and Therapy to practice alcohol and drug counseling to an individual prior to being licensed meeting the requirement of 148F.035. 
  • Must know and understand all rules, regulations, and requirements of the assigned program. 
  • A minimum of two-year freedom from chemical abuse problems. 
  • On-going training on of cultural awareness and demonstration of sensitivity to various cultural norms and values. 
  • Computer literate. 
Preferred: 
  • Strong verbal skills and ability to communicate abstract concepts in a simple format 
  • Ability to communicate with a variety of people from diverse cultures, socioeconomic and educational backgrounds. 
  • Flexibility to meet a variety of changing priorities 
  • Computer skills to draft emails, memos and reports 
Physical Requirement   
  • Extended periods of sitting, 80% of time 
  • Occasionally reaching for and lifting client charts, 5 lbs. 10% of time 
  • Heavy Data Entry on computer, 25% of time 
  • Frequent handling of paperwork, binders, writing 
EOSIS (formerly Meridian Behavioral Health) is a leader in behavioral health care and addiction recovery services, with a network of addiction treatment centers in Minnesota.