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Entry Level Addiction Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Visit Supervisor

Mishawaka, IN · On-site

$22.34/hr

Who We Are Oaklawn is the leading provider of mental health and addiction services in Elkhart ... * Entry level starting pay is $20.19/hr * Bachelor degree level pay starts at $22.34/hr * Start ...

Who We Are Oaklawn is the leading provider of mental health and addiction services in Elkhart ... * Entry level starting pay is $20.19/hr * Bachelor degree level pay starts at $22.34/hr * Start ...

Substance Abuse: Entry-level counselor assistants (Certified Addiction Counselor I, or CAC I) need only a high school diploma or GED, 40 hours of approved training, and 4,000 hours of supervised ...

Substance Abuse: Entry-level counselor assistants (Certified Addiction Counselor I, or CAC I) need only a high school diploma or GED, 40 hours of approved training, and 4,000 hours of supervised ...

Substance Abuse Counselor

Valdosta, GA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Certifications/Licensures are NOT required for Entry Level Counselors** Location: Valdosta State ... Acceptable Certifications include Certified Addiction Counselor from the Georgia Addiction ...

Substance Abuse Counselor

Valdosta, GA · On-site

$19 - $20/hr

Certifications/Licensures are NOT required for Entry Level Counselors** Location: Valdosta State ... Acceptable Certifications include Certified Addiction Counselor from the Georgia Addiction ...

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Entry Level Addiction information

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$21K

$50.9K

$87K

How much do entry level addiction jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 22, 2026, the average yearly pay for entry level addiction in the United States is $50,925.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $33,500.00 and $55,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectEntry Level AddictionEntry Level Substance Abuse Counselor
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification may be preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification or licensure often required
Work EnvironmentRehabilitation centers, clinics, community health programsRehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, hospitals
Employer & Industry UsageUsed broadly in addiction treatment settingsSpecific role within addiction treatment teams
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles in addiction treatmentClarifying responsibilities and qualifications for entry-level counselors

Entry Level Addiction roles generally refer to basic positions in addiction treatment, often requiring minimal certifications. Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselors are more specialized, typically needing certification or licensure, and focus on providing counseling services. Both roles work in similar environments but differ in responsibilities and qualification requirements.

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

To thrive as an Entry Level Addiction Counselor, you need a foundational knowledge of substance abuse treatment, basic counseling techniques, and typically a bachelor’s degree in psychology, social work, or a related field. Familiarity with case management software, documentation systems, and in some states, certification like CADC (Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor) is often required. Compassion, strong listening skills, and the ability to build trust with clients are essential soft skills in this role. These skills and qualifications are crucial for providing effective support, ensuring compliance, and fostering recovery in individuals struggling with addiction.

What are some common challenges faced by entry-level addiction counselors, and how can they be managed effectively?

Entry-level addiction counselors often encounter challenges such as building trust with clients, managing emotionally charged situations, and maintaining appropriate professional boundaries. These challenges can be managed effectively through ongoing supervision, seeking support from experienced colleagues, and participating in regular training. It's also important to practice self-care and utilize available resources within the team to prevent burnout. Many organizations offer mentorship programs to help new counselors navigate these early hurdles and develop their skills.

What are entry level addiction jobs?

Entry level addiction jobs are positions in the field of addiction treatment and recovery that require minimal prior experience or education. These roles often include titles such as addiction technician, behavioral health aide, or support staff in treatment centers. Employees in these positions assist with daily care of clients, monitor behavior, provide support for recovery activities, and help maintain a safe environment. Entry level addiction jobs are a great way to start a career in substance abuse counseling and behavioral health, often providing on-the-job training and opportunities to advance.
More about Entry Level Addiction jobs
What cities are hiring for Entry Level Addiction jobs? Cities with the most Entry Level Addiction job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Addiction jobs? The most popular types of Addiction jobs are:
What states have the most Entry Level Addiction jobs? States with the most job openings for Entry Level Addiction jobs include:
Substance Abuse Counselor/Therapist (Certified/Licensed & Entry Level) - Wrightsville, GA

Substance Abuse Counselor/Therapist (Certified/Licensed & Entry Level) - Wrightsville, GA

Gateway Foundation Inc

Wrightsville, GA

$18.75 - $25.25/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 9 days ago


Job description

Are you interested in Substance Abuse Counseling and want to get certified for FREE?

Who is Gateway Foundation?

Gateway Foundation, Inc. is a national non-profit dedicated to helping individuals with substance use and mental health disorders. Established in 1968, Gateway provides essential tools and knowledge for recovery, positively impacting hundreds of thousands of lives. Operating through its Community Services, Corrections Divisions, and Corporate Headquarters, the organization is recognized for innovative, effective treatment approaches and maintaining high standards.

Why join us?

Consider joining our team, where your impact can be truly meaningful. Our organization focuses on delivering high quality clinical services as a recognized leader in evidence-based treatment proven to get results. By joining our team, you'll have the chance to provide essential services to underserved populations, all while working for an organization that values you and aims to be an employer of choice.  You can expect to be part of a vibrant culture that emphasizes teamwork and professional growth. When you join us, you'll discover personal and professional fulfillment by aligning your career with your values.

We are honored to offer behavioral healthcare services in Corrections

Perks of working in correctional healthcare:

  • Opportunity to make a positive impact on a marginalized population
  • Exposure to diverse patient demographics
  • Focus on driving change, tracking progress, and improving care
  • Development of skills in a unique healthcare setting

**Certifications/Licensures are NOT required for Entry Level Counselors**

Location: Johnson State Prison - 290 Donovan Harrison Rd. Wrightsville, GA 31096

Work Schedule: Monday through Thursday from 6:45 AM - 5:15pm (4-10 hour Shifts)

Substance Abuse Counselors are responsible for:

  • Conducts client interviews and assessments to review substance use disorder and treatment history.
  • Evaluates client response to treatment to recommend modifications to the treatment plan and assist with caseloads and development of individualized treatment plan and preparing individually appropriate goals, interventions, and necessary support. 
  • Assists with and provides didactic group counseling, including psychoeducation, drug education, and family education to ensure peer support occurs.
  • Provides individual client counseling, educational programs and lectures to address relapse prevention, problem solving, behavior modification, anger management, etc., and to assist in overcoming substance use disorder, adjusting to pro-social life, and making cognitive and behavioral changes.
  • Carries case load up to 25 clients, per State and contract requirements.
  • Collaborates with clients to develop discharge summary and continuing care and relapse prevention plans for supervisor’s approval to integrate aftercare treatment with referral resource services.
  • Coordinates required services to resolve emergency problems in crisis situations in support of continued recovery. 
  • Collects and maintains treatment records and reports to ensure organizational, regulatory, accreditation, and contractual compliance.
  • Performs office administrative duties, such as answering telephones; relaying messages; responding to inquiries regarding program services and policies; filing, photocopying and faxing documents; planning special events, assembling intake packets, etc.

 Job Requirements:

  • Must have a minimum of a Bachelor's Degree in a helping profession from an accredited college or university
  • Some previous counseling experience, experience in substance use disorder or mental health treatment is preferred
  • Must obtain certification as identified by state within 30 months of the first date that the counseling services are provided. Acceptable Certifications include Certified Addiction Counselor from the Georgia Addiction Counselor’s Association (GACA), Certified Addiction Counselor from the National Association of Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Counselors (NAADAC), Certified Drug and Alcohol Counselor from the International Certification and Reciprocity Consortium (ICRC), and Certification as a Certified Clinical Supervisor (CCS). Acceptable Licensures include Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Licensed Associate Professional Counselor (LAPC), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT), and Certified Professional Counselor Supervisor (CPCS).
  • Must be able to obtain Georgia Department of Corrections clearance to work in the correctional institution

Physical Requirements:

  • Works in a correctional facility
  • Ability to walk and move about the facilities for up to two hours at a time, to monitor and interact with clients
  • Exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and/or negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects.
  • Ability to use a keyboard and video display terminal to receive, retrieve, and/or audit information and data
  • Ability to record, proofread and check documents and files for accuracy
  • Ability to respond to telephones, and to hear and detect alarms and unusual noises

Compensation (based on experience and credentials): 

  • Range begins at $20.50 - $21.50 per hour - Uncertified Counselor
  • Range begins at $26.00 - $28.00 per hour - Certified Counselor
  • $1,500 Sign On Bonus for Non-Credentialed Counselors and $3,000 Sign On Bonus for Certified Counselors
  • Gateway Foundation conducts annual reviews including merit increases.

Benefits at Gateway Foundation:

Health and Wellness:

  • Medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and dependents
  • Employee wellness program promoting health and fitness and offering cash-saving premiums
  • Employee assistance programs focused on mental health

Financial Wellbeing:

  • 403(b) Retirement Plan with 3% employer match 
  • Short-term and Long-term Disability and Life and AD&D Insurance paid for by Gateway
  • Flexible Spending Accounts for medical and dependent care
  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) 

Flexibility and Time Off:

  • 18 paid time off days per year – accrual rates increase with years of service
  • 9 paid company holidays
  • Work-life-balance

Personal Development:

  • Training & Development Programs
  • Tuition Reimbursement - up to $5,250 per calendar year
  • eLearning access to online courses that provide CEU’s and job-related training
  • Clinical Supervision: Formal and informal guidance

Gateway Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer: Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/ Gender Identity/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Vets. Please view Equal Employment Opportunity Posters provided by OFCCP here.