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Entry Level Addiction Psychology Jobs (NOW HIRING)

United States Probation Officer

Wheeling, WV · On-site +1

$53K - $120K/yr

... the entry level of CL 25. Specialized experience is described as progressively responsible ... addiction treatment, public administration, human relations, social work, psychology, or mental ...

... addiction treatment, public administration, human relations, social work, psychology, or mental ... Previous community corrections and/or social services experience is preferred for entry level (CL ...

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Entry Level Addiction Psychology information

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$37K

$53K

$70.5K

How much do entry level addiction psychology jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 14, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level addiction psychology in the United States is $52,998.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,000.00 and $56,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in entry-level addiction psychology roles, and how can they be managed?

Entry-level addiction psychology professionals often face challenges such as managing emotionally intense situations, building trust with clients, and navigating complex cases involving co-occurring mental health disorders. Support from supervisors, ongoing training, and regular team meetings can help address these challenges. Additionally, practicing self-care and seeking mentorship within the team are important strategies for maintaining resilience and professional growth.

What is an entry level addiction psychologist?

An entry level addiction psychologist is a professional who works under supervision to help individuals struggling with substance use disorders or addictive behaviors. They typically assist with assessments, support treatment plans, and provide counseling in clinical or community settings. Entry level roles often require at least a bachelor's degree in psychology or a related field, and may involve working as an assistant or technician while pursuing further credentials. With experience and additional education, they can advance to higher roles with greater responsibilities. This position is ideal for those interested in mental health and supporting recovery from addiction.

What can you do with an addiction psychology degree?

An entry level addiction psychology degree prepares individuals for roles such as addiction counselor, case manager, or behavioral health technician, often requiring certification or licensure. Graduates can work in treatment centers, hospitals, or community organizations, applying skills in counseling, assessment, and support for individuals with substance use disorders.

What is the difference between Entry Level Addiction Psychology vs Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor?

AspectEntry Level Addiction PsychologyEntry Level Substance Abuse Counselor
Required CredentialsBachelor's degree in psychology or related field; some roles may require certificationBachelor's degree; certification or licensure often preferred or required
Work EnvironmentClinics, hospitals, community health centers, research settingsRehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, community agencies
Employer & Industry UsageHealthcare, mental health, research institutionsSubstance abuse treatment facilities, rehab centers, social service agencies
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles in addiction psychologyEntry-level positions in substance abuse counseling

Entry Level Addiction Psychology roles focus on understanding addiction from a psychological perspective, often involving research or assessment, while Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselors primarily provide direct client support and treatment in rehab settings. Both roles require similar educational backgrounds and certifications, but their work environments and job functions differ slightly.

What jobs can I go straight into with a psychology degree?

With an entry-level psychology degree, you can pursue roles such as behavioral health technician, case manager, or research assistant, which often require strong communication and organizational skills. These positions typically do not require advanced licensure and may serve as stepping stones toward specialized careers like addiction counseling or therapy, which may require additional certification or training.

How to start a career in addiction recovery?

To start a career in addiction recovery as an addiction psychologist, obtain a relevant bachelor's degree such as psychology or social work, then pursue a master's or doctoral degree in addiction psychology or a related field. Gaining supervised clinical experience and obtaining licensure or certification are essential steps to work with clients in recovery settings.

What are the best entry level psychology jobs?

Entry level addiction psychology jobs include roles such as behavioral health technician, case aide, or mental health assistant, which often require a high school diploma or bachelor's degree. These positions involve supporting clients, assisting with treatment plans, and working under supervision in clinical or community settings, providing valuable experience for future advanced roles in psychology or addiction counseling.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Entry Level Addiction Psychologist, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Addiction Psychologist, you need a foundational understanding of psychological principles, addiction counseling techniques, and at least a bachelor’s degree in psychology or a related field, often working toward advanced licensure. Familiarity with evidence-based therapeutic modalities, client management systems, and documentation standards is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and active listening set top candidates apart in this role. These abilities are crucial for establishing trust, supporting clients in recovery, and ensuring effective, ethical treatment outcomes.
More about Entry Level Addiction Psychology jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Addiction Psychology jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Addiction Psychology job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Addiction Psychology jobs? The most popular types of Addiction Psychology jobs are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Addiction Psychology jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Addiction Psychology jobs are:
Infographic showing various Entry Level Addiction Psychology job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 4% Locum Tenens, 37% Full Time, 33% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 25% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,998 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Group Life Counselor I, II, or III

Sea Mar Community Health Centers

Tacoma, WA • On-site

$20.80 - $23.66/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement

Posted 29 days ago


Job description

Sea Mar Community Health Centers, a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) founded in 1978, is a community-based organization committed to providing quality, comprehensive health, human, housing, educational and cultural services to diverse communities, specializing in service to Latinos in Washington State. Sea Mar proudly serves all persons without regard to race, ethnicity, immigration status, gender, or sexual orientation, and regardless of ability to pay for services. Sea Mar's network of services includes more than 90 medical, dental, and behavioral health clinics and a wide variety of nutritional, social, and educational services. We are recruiting for the following position:

Sea Mar is a mandatory COVID-19 and flu vaccine organization

Group Life Counselor I, II, or III - Posting #27446

Hourly Rate: $20.80 - 23.66

Position Summary:

Full-time Group Life Counselor position available for our Treatment Center located in Tacoma, WA.  The descriptions below outline the job duties and requirements of a GLC I, GLC II and GLC III. The person hired will either work in a GLC II or GLC III capacity if the requirements are met. We have open positions for Evening, Graveyard, or day shift.

The Group Life Counselor I  is an entry level Human Service position that is part of the multi-disciplinary treatment team providing direct services to patients in a residential setting. Direct services may include a combination of all or the following: group care, intake procedures, evaluation, individual and group counseling, milieu management, evaluation and supervision of patients. An entry level person is expected to have a "base to moderate" understanding of how to provide the direct services listed above. Must understand that chemical dependency is a treatable illness and a public health problem. 

The Group Life Counselor II is a mid-level Human Service position that is part of the multi-disciplinary treatment team providing direct services to patients in a residential setting.  Direct services may include a combination or all of the following:  group care, intake procedures, evaluation, individual and group counseling, milieu management, evaluation, and supervision of patients.  Services are provided to out-of-control, high-risk, chronic runaway youth.  These youth/adult have a primary diagnosis of chemical dependency and may also have mental health problems.  The person in this position must be of good character and able to maintain the understanding, physical health, emotional stability, and personality suited to meet the physical, mental, emotional, and social needs of the adolescent population served. A mid-level person is expected to have a, “moderate to complete” understanding of how to provide the direct services listed above.

GLC II – Education and or/Experience:

  • B.A. degree in Psychology, Sociology, Human Services, or has at least two years of experience working with high-risk youth.
  • This person must receive a background check from DSHS and Washington State Patrol at hire and yearly.  Must have a Washington State driver’s license if applicable. 
  • Must have and maintain CPR Certification every two years and First-Aid every three years.

The Group Life Counselor III is a position that is part of the multi-disciplinary treatment team providing direct services to patients in a residential setting. Direct services may include a combination or all of the following: group care, intake procedures, evaluation, individual and group counseling, milieu management, and supervision of patients. These patients have a primary diagnosis of chemical dependency and may also have mental health problems.   GLC III will be responsible to facilitate treatment educational groups with the Individuals.  The GLC III is the agent for providing services to patients in individual or group sessions.  GLC III will work closely with CDP in treatment activities.

GLC III – Education and or/Experience

  • B.A. degree in Psychology, Sociology, Human Services, Addictions or related field.
  • Associates degree in Chemical Dependency and at least two years’ experience in working with at-risk population. 
  • Experience working with high-risk youth or adults preferred.
  • Must have and maintain CPR Certification every two years and First-Aid every three years.

What We Offer:

Sea Mar offers talented and motivated people the opportunity to work in a dynamic and growing community health organization. Working at Sea Mar Community Health Centers is more than just a job, it’s a fulfilling career with opportunity for advancement. The fringe benefits surpass most companies. For example, Full-time employees working 30 hours or more, receive an excellent benefit package of:

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Prescription coverage
  • Life Insurance
  • Long Term Disability
  • EAP (Employee Assistance Program)
  • Paid-time-off starting at 24 days per year + 10 paid Holidays.

We also offer 401(k)/Retirement options and an exciting opportunity to work in a culturally diverse environment. 

How to Apply:

To apply for this position, complete the online application and click SUBMIT or APPLY NOW. If you have any questions regarding the position, email Joshua Sweet, Program Manager at JoshuaSweet@seamarchc.org.

Sea Mar is an Equal Opportunity Employer

Posted 04/03/2025

External candidates considered after 04/08/2025

This position is represented by Office and Professional Employees International Union (OPEIU).

Please visit our website to learn more about us at www.seamar.org. You may also apply through our Career page at https://www.seamar.org/jobs-general.html

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