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Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Decatur, GA

Georgia

Behavioral Hlth Counselor 1

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$45K - $47K/yr

Credentialing (i.e., Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CADC/CAC), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), or comparable credential). SOFT SKILLS:

Georgia

Behavioral Hlth Counselor 1

Morrow, GA · On-site

$45K - $47K/yr

Credentialing (i.e., Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CADC/CAC), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), or comparable credential). SOFT SKILLS:

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Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor information

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

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level substance abuse counselor in Decatur, GA is $24.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.87 and $28.17 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.
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The most popular types of Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Decatur, GA are:

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For Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Decatur, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Decatur, GA are:

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Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor job openings in Decatur, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,724 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Addictions / Substance Abuse Counselor

New Beginnings Today

Atlanta, GA

$18 - $25/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 26 days ago

Job description

The Addictions / Substance Abuse Counselor will provide ADSS and individualized one-on-one substance use recovery services and supports which build on the strengths and resilience of the individual


Minimum Qualifications, Education & Experience:

  • Must be certified in the state of Georgia as a CAADC, ICAADC, GCADC-III, MAC, GCADC-II, CADC-II, ICADC-II, or CAC-II. Opportunity to provide lower level clinicians supervision.
  • Current credential as a Substance Use Disorder/Addiction Counselor issued by a state, international or credentialing authority.
  • Person must have a minimum of 1-year experience working with clientele suffering from MH/SA issues and their families.
  • Under supervision of an appropriately licensed/credentialed professional upon employment, as needed.
  • Must maintain yearly professional liability insurance.
  • Certification education/degree/experience required:
    • Master's degree or above in human services with a clinical application (CAADC, ICAADC, GCADC-II) OR
    • Master's degree documentation of a minimum of 12 semester hours of graduate coursework in the area or 500 CE hours specifically in addictions OR Master's degree or higher in substance use disorders/addiction and/or counseling related subjects (MAC) OR
    • Bachelor's degree. Meet the legal standards set forth in GA Code 43- 10A-7 (GCADC-II, CADC-II, ICADC-II, CAC-II).


Duties Include:

  1. Provide individualized one-on-one substance use recovery services and supports which build on the strengths and resilience of the individual.
  2. Services limited to the provision of chemical dependency treatment.
  3. Responsible for staffing cases when assigned, when requested, and when you believe necessary.
  4. Provide designated services as dictated by active/current treatment plan of the individual in treatment.
  5. Render crisis protocol, as needed.
  6. Present cases in the treatment team meetings.
  7. Assist treatment team in revising goals.
  8. Evaluate and document consumer's progress towards their goals and make appropriate referrals.
  9. Provide crisis intervention, as needed.
  10. Adhere to all responsibilities identified by NBT Administrative personnel such as Clinical Director or Supervisor.

Teamwork & Communication:

  1. Demonstrate cooperation.
  2. Collaborating with other professionals.
  3. Be a productive member of the staff.
  4. Communicate effectively, clearly, and appropriately and ensure client care and clinician concerns are known.
  5. Use excellent judgment.
  6. Prompt arrival to sessions/meetings is strongly encouraged.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.






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