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Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Decatur, GA

Prime Healthcare

Intake Accessor

Riverdale, GA

$33K - $38K/yr

Considerable knowledge of adult mental health and substance abuse issues and psychological evaluation techniques. Knowledge of group, individual, and family counseling techniques. Ability to ...

New

CHRIS 180

Licensed Therapist

Atlanta, GA

... group counseling/training, and skill building to consumers with MH, co-occurring or substance abuse disorders as classified by the DSM-V TR Documentation Requirements o Complete timely and ...

Chris 180

Therapist (At Promise Centers)

Atlanta, GA · On-site

... group counseling/training, and skill building to consumers with MH, co-occurring or substance abuse disorders as classified by the DSM-VTR · Documentation Requirements o Complete timely and ...

Chris 180

Licensed Therapist

Atlanta, GA · On-site

... group counseling/training, and skill building to consumers with MH, co-occurring or substance abuse disorders as classified by the DSM-V TR · Documentation Requirements o Complete timely and ...

Chris180

Licensed Therapist

Atlanta, GA · On-site

... group counseling/training, and skill building to consumers with MH, co-occurring or substance abuse disorders as classified by the DSM-V TR • Documentation Requirements o Complete timely and ...

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All JobsEntry Level Substance Abuse Counselor JobsEntry Level Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Decatur, GA

Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$13

$24

$34

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

As of Jun 13, 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 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.

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 Does an Entry-Level Substance Abuse Counselor Do?

As an entry-level substance abuse counselor, your job is to help protect and support the mental health of a patient and guide them through the rehabilitation process. In this role, you may discuss drug and alcohol abuse with each client, determine whether or not they need an intervention, and create a personalized therapy or treatment plan based on their unique needs. This job title can be confusing because some substance abuse counselors perform counseling work before becoming licensed counselors, so be sure to check whether any job posting you are interested in is for recent college graduates or for fully-licensed counselors.

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 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.

Can I be an addiction counselor without a degree?

Entry level substance abuse counselor roles typically require at least a high school diploma or equivalent, but many states and employers prefer candidates with a relevant associate or bachelor's degree. Certification or licensing, such as a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), often requires completing specific education and supervised work hours. Having a degree can improve job prospects and advancement opportunities in the field.

What steps do I need to take to become a substance abuse counselor?

To become an entry-level substance abuse counselor, you typically need to earn a relevant bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, or a related field, complete any required state-specific certification or licensing, and gain supervised experience. Many positions also require certification such as the Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) credential, which involves passing an exam and accumulating supervised hours.

What do you need to become a LSAA in New Mexico?

To become a Licensed Substance Abuse Associate (LSAA) in New Mexico, you must complete a state-approved substance abuse counseling program, accumulate supervised work experience, and pass the required licensing exam. Additionally, applicants must submit a background check and adhere to continuing education requirements to maintain licensure.

How much does Cadc make?

In North Carolina, entry-level Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselors (CADCs) typically earn between $35,000 and $45,000 annually. Salaries can vary based on experience, certification level, and work setting, with additional opportunities for advancement and specialization in substance abuse counseling.
More about Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Decatur, GA? The most popular types of Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Decatur, GA? For Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Decatur, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Decatur, GA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Decatur, GA are:
What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor jobs? Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor job openings:
Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor jobs near you
Intake Accessor

Intake Accessor

Southern Regional Medical Center

Riverdale, GA • On-site

$33K - $38K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 3 days ago

Job description

Overview
The behavioral health intake assessor is a licensed professional counselor or social worker with extensive knowledge and experience in the behavioral health setting, preferably in a crisis center or in an emergency department. This position will be for our geriatric psych unit.
Shift's Available: Days
Employment Type: Flexible
Hours: 8am to 430pm
Location: Southern Regional Medical Center - Riverdale, GA
Here are some of the benefits of working at Prime Healthcare:
  • Health, dental, and vision insurance options
  • Paid vacation, sick time and holidays
  • Bereavement leave, FMLA and other leave options
  • Employer 401K options
  • Tuition reimbursement options
  • Life, disability, and other insurance options
  • Many other amazing benefits

Responsibilities
Essential Duties and Responsibilities (includes, but not limited to):
The behavioral health assessor must possess excellent assessment skills, communication skills, and knowledge of community resources as well as a working knowledge of legal holds. The assessor must feel comfortable with making recommendations for placement and/or discharge to the community. He or she will work closely with the ED physicians and on call psychiatrists.. Coordinates and prioritizes disposition of behavioral health patients in the emergency department, ensure the seamless transfer of the patient to the appropriate level of care.
Qualifications
Education and Work Experience
1. Required Minimum Education: Master's degree in Social work, Psychology or related field and
2. Required Minimum Certification: Current licensure as a LMSW, LCSW, LPC, or LMFT in the State of Georgia.
3. Required Minimum Skills: Considerable knowledge of adult mental health and substance abuse issues and psychological evaluation techniques. Knowledge of group, individual, and family counseling techniques. Ability to communicate and counsel effectively with patients, staff, and other professionals Ability to develop basic treatment plans for patients with psychiatric and /or substance abuse issues
4. Assaultive Behavior Management training within 6 months of hire and maintain current annually.
Full benefits at Prime Healthcare: https://www.primehealthcare.com/careers/benefits/
#LI-HM1
Employment Status
Full Time
Shift
Days
Equal Employment Opportunity
Company is an equal employment opportunity employer. Company prohibits discrimination against any applicant or employee based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, national origin, age (subject to applicable law), disability, military status, genetic information or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state, or local laws. The Company also prohibits harassment of applicants or employees based on any of these protected categories. Know Your Rights: https://www.eeoc.gov/sites/default/files/2022-10/EEOC_KnowYourRights_screen_reader_10_20.pdf

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