ZipRecruiter

Log In

2

Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA

Avenues Recovery

Substance Abuse Counselor

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$21.25 - $28.75/hr

Now seeking to hire Substance Abuse Counselors for our brand new outpatient facility in Baton Rouge, LA!What You'll Do Create individualized, evidence-based treatment plans for each clientConduct ...

New

Avenues Recovery

Substance Abuse Counselor

Baton Rouge, LA

$21.25 - $28.75/hr

Now seeking to hire Substance Abuse Counselors for our brand new outpatient facility in Baton Rouge, LA! What You'll Do * Create individualized, evidence-based treatment plans for each client

New

Avenues Recovery

Substance Abuse Counselor

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$21.25 - $28.75/hr

Now seeking to hire Substance Abuse Counselors for our brand new outpatient facility in Baton Rouge, LA! What You'll Do * Create individualized, evidence-based treatment plans for each client

New

Acadia Healthcare

Substance Use Counselor

Baton Rouge, LA · On-site

$19.50 - $26.25/hr

Substance Use Counselor Full Time Hours: Monday - Friday 5:15 AM - 1:30 PM Our Benefits: * Semi-Annual Bonus Program * Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance * Competitive 401(k) plan * Paid vacation ...

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsSubstance Abuse Counselor JobsEntry Level Substance Abuse Counselor JobsEntry Level Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Baton Rouge, LA

Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor information

See Baton Rouge, LA salary details

$12

$22

$31

How much do entry level substance abuse counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level substance abuse counselor in Baton Rouge, LA is $22.29, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $18.70 and $25.24 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does an entry level substance abuse counselor do?

An entry level substance abuse counselor works with individuals struggling with drug or alcohol addiction, providing support, education, and counseling to help them recover. They typically conduct intake assessments, assist in developing treatment plans, lead individual or group therapy sessions, and monitor clients’ progress. Entry level counselors often work under the supervision of licensed professionals and may also help clients access community resources and support networks.

What are some common challenges faced by entry level substance abuse counselors when working with clients?

Entry level substance abuse counselors often encounter challenges such as building trust with clients who may be hesitant to engage or have a history of relapse. Managing emotional boundaries is also important, as clients may share difficult experiences that can be emotionally taxing. Additionally, counselors must navigate complex family dynamics and coordinate care with other professionals, such as social workers and medical staff, to provide comprehensive support. Developing effective communication and self-care strategies can help new counselors manage these challenges and thrive in the role.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an entry level substance abuse counselor, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor, you generally need a bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, or a related field, along with knowledge of addiction theories and treatment modalities. Familiarity with case management software, electronic health records, and sometimes state-specific certification or licensure is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, active listening, and empathy help counselors build trust and effectively support clients through recovery. These skills and qualifications are crucial for providing effective treatment, ensuring compliance with regulations, and fostering meaningful client progress.

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

AspectEntry Level Substance Abuse CounselorSubstance Abuse Technician
CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification may be preferredHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification often required
Work EnvironmentCounseling sessions, treatment centers, clinicsAssist in treatment settings, support counseling activities
Employer & IndustryRehab centers, clinics, mental health facilitiesRehab facilities, hospitals, outpatient clinics
Job Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level roles involving client interaction and counselingOften searched as a related support role in substance abuse treatment

In summary, Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselors and Substance Abuse Technicians both work in addiction treatment settings, often requiring similar certifications. Counselors typically engage directly in client counseling and treatment planning, while Technicians support these activities. Both roles are essential in the treatment process and are commonly sought by individuals starting their careers in substance abuse treatment.

How long does it take to become an entry level substance abuse counselor?

Becoming an entry-level substance abuse counselor typically requires completing a minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent, followed by obtaining a relevant certification or associate degree, which can take about 1-2 years. Additionally, some states require supervised clinical experience and passing a licensing exam, which may extend the process to around 2-3 years in total.

How much do entry level substance abuse counselors make?

Entry level substance abuse counselors typically earn between $30,000 and $40,000 annually, depending on location, education, and certification. Starting salaries may be lower in some areas, but with experience and additional credentials, earnings can increase. These roles often require a relevant degree and state certification or licensure.

Is it hard to become an entry level substance abuse counselor?

Becoming an entry-level substance abuse counselor typically requires a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant certification or training such as a state-approved counseling program. Some positions may require a bachelor's degree in a related field, and obtaining certification like the Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) can improve job prospects. The process involves gaining supervised experience and passing licensing exams, but overall, it is accessible with the proper education and training.
More about Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Baton Rouge, LA?

The most popular types of Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Baton Rouge, LA?

For Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Baton Rouge, LA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Baton Rouge, LA look for?

The top searched job categories for Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Baton Rouge, LA are:

What cities near Baton Rouge, LA are hiring for Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor jobs?

Cities near Baton Rouge, LA with the most Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor job openings:

Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor job openings in Baton Rouge, LA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 85% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 72% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 27% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $46,355 per year, or $22.3 per hour.

Substance Abuse Counselor

Avenues Recovery

Baton Rouge, LA • On-site

$21.25 - $28.75/hr

Full-time

Dental, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New

Job description

Who We Are Avenues Recovery Center is a nationwide network of drug and alcohol rehab centers with eighteen locations across seven states. With an unrivaled, evidence - based clinical curriculum and highly individualized care, Avenues continues to set new standards in the world of addiction treatment. Our programs - spanning detox, residential, PHP, IOP and outpatient services - have transformed the lives of thousands to date. But our secret superpower is our people. If you are a talented, passionate clinician looking to make a real difference in the recovery community, the Avenues family warmly welcomes you!Now seeking to hire Substance Abuse Counselors for our brand new outpatient facility in Baton Rouge, LA!What You'll Do Create individualized, evidence-based treatment plans for each clientConduct individual, group, family and couple therapy sessionsTake responsibility for all clinical needs, services, and aftercare for your client caseloadPrevent, intervene and de-escalate in event of a crisisMaintain impeccable documentation of client challenges, progress, relapse risk, and interventionCollaborate with Clinical Director, treatment team and family for seamless coordination of careModel ethics, morality and recovery principles in every professional interaction - honesty, accountability, dignity and respectWhat We're Looking For Bachelor's degree in psychology, counseling or related field required. Master's degree preferred.Valid state licensure / certification necessary to practice in this role (LPC, LCSW, PLPC, CIT, RAC, CSW)Excellent observational, collaborative and interpersonal skillsStrong oral and written communication skillsCompassionate, dignified character which models recovery principlesAbility to set strong boundaries and maintain absolute confidentialityWhy Join Us? Avenues features a rich, enjoyable workplace culture where each employee is valued and greatness is pursued. We support our employees unconditionally, and work to provide them with every resource they need to excel! Aside from generous PTO and compensation, when you join the Avenues family you'll be eligible for the following benefits package:401K with employer matchMedical Insurance Dental VisionAccidentCritical IllnessHospital IndemnityVoluntary Short-Term DisabilityVoluntary Long -Term DisabilityEmployer-Paid Life and AD&DLifeTime Benefit Term Insurance with Long Term CareLegal CoveragePet InsuranceIdentity Theft ProtectionEmployer-Paid Employee Assistance ProgramFlexible Spending Account (FSA) - MedicalDependent Care FSA (DCF)Join our growing team and discover the magic here at Avenues!Apply today!
Job Posted by ApplicantPro