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Drug Counselor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Eosis

Licensed Alcohol & Drug Counselor (LADC)

Waverly, MN · On-site

$66K - $75K/yr

As a Licensed Alcohol & Drug Counselor you'll have the unique opportunity to support individuals during one of the most vulnerable-and courageous-moments in their lives. This position reports to the ...

Eosis

Licensed Alcohol & Drug Counselor (LADC)

Owatonna, MN · On-site

$66K - $74K/yr

As a Licensed Alcohol & Drug Counselor at EOSIS in Owatonna, MN you'll have the unique opportunity to support individuals during one of the most vulnerable-and courageous-moments in their lives. This ...

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How much do drug counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 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 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 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 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.

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.

How much money does a drug counselor make a year?

The average annual salary for a drug counselor is around $40,000 to $50,000, depending on experience, location, and work setting. Salaries can vary based on certifications, education level, and whether they work in outpatient or inpatient facilities.

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 field can provide job stability and the chance to make a positive impact on clients' lives.

Is it worth becoming a drug counselor?

A drug counselor helps individuals recover from substance abuse by providing support, education, and therapy. The role often requires certification or licensing, and employment can offer meaningful work with opportunities for specialization and growth in mental health and addiction services.

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.

Where do drug counselors make the most money?

Drug counselors tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for mental health services, such as urban areas or states with robust healthcare funding. Salaries can also increase with experience, advanced certifications, and working in private practices or specialized treatment centers.
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 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 $48,812 per year, or $23.5 per hour.

Alcohol and Drug Counselor

Peace Healthcare Incorporated

Dundalk, MD

$25 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago

Job description

Position Summary:
The SUD Counselor is responsible for providing direct counseling services to clients with substance use and co-occurring mental health needs. This role includes conducting assessments, developing individualized treatment plans, and facilitating ongoing therapeutic support while ensuring compliance with state and federal regulations.
Primary Responsibilities
  • Maintain an assigned client caseload.
  • Complete an individualized treatment plan within 5 days of a client’s admission.
  • Monitor, document, and evaluate client progress toward treatment goals.
  • Provide substance use education during counseling sessions.
  • Ensure all client records are accurate, timely, and updated in accordance with program requirements.
  • Coordinate and document random urinalysis testing per State and Federal guidelines.
  • Conduct Intake Assessments and complete related documentation.
  • Ensure all services are provided in strict compliance with client confidentiality laws (42 CFR Part 2 & HIPAA).
  • Attend weekly supervision and additional supervision as required.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by the Clinical Supervisor.
Qualifications
  • Associate or Bachelor’s degree in a Human Services–related field required.
  • Minimum of 2 years of direct experience working with individuals with substance use disorders.
  • Must be licensed or certified as an Alcohol & Drug Counselor by the Maryland Board of Professional Counselors & Therapists, or approved by the Board to provide services under supervision.
Compensation & Benefits
  • Compensation is based on experience and employment status (Contract, Part-time, or Full-Time, Evening and Weekend-Remote).
  • Benefits available for full-time employees, including health and paid time off.
  • Locations: Forest Hill & Dundalk, Maryland