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Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Reno, NV

Overview The Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Counselor provides evaluation, treatment, and ongoing support to individuals recovering from substance use disorders through telehealth services. This role ...

SUD Counselor Telehealth

Carson City, NV · On-site

$21.75 - $29.50/hr

The Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Counselor provides evaluation, treatment, and ongoing support to individuals recovering from substance use disorders through telehealth services. This role works as ...

SUD Counselor Telehealth

Carson City, NV

$21.75 - $29.50/hr

How you make a difference The Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Counselor provides evaluation, treatment, and ongoing support to individuals recovering from substance use disorders through telehealth ...

SUD Counselor Telehealth - Zenova

Carson City, NV · On-site

$21.75 - $29.50/hr

How you make a difference The Substance Use Disorder (SUD) Counselor provides evaluation, treatment, and ongoing support to individuals recovering from substance use disorders through telehealth ...

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Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor information

See Reno, NV salary details

$14

$25

$35

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

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level substance abuse counselor in Reno, NV is $25.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.35 and $28.75 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.

What are the most commonly searched types of Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Reno, NV?

The most popular types of Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Reno, NV are:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Reno, NV?

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

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Reno, NV look for?

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

What cities near Reno, NV are hiring for Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor jobs?

Cities near Reno, NV with the most Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor job openings:

Infographic showing various Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor job openings in Reno, NV as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 91% Full Time, 5% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 93% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,823 per year, or $25.4 per hour.

SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELOR 1 - UNDERFILL

State of Nevada (NV)

Carson City, NV • On-site

$57K - $84K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 18 hours ago


State Of Nevada rating

7.1

Company rating: 7.1 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

39th of 50 rated states


Job description

***THIS RECRUITMENT MAY CLOSE WITHOUT FURTHER NOTICE DEPENDING ON THE NUMBER OF APPLICATIONS RECEIVED. APPLICANTS ARE ENCOURAGED TO APPLY AS SOON AS POSSIBLE*** Job Summary The Department of Corrections is seeking to fill a Substance Abuse Counselor 1 (underfill for the Substance Abuse Counselor 2) in Indian Springs. Progression to Substance Abuse Counselor 2 may only occur upon meeting minimum qualifications and with the recommendation of the appointing authority.

The Substance Abuse Counselor will provide direct clinical work for adults who are incarcerated. Services include but not limited to intakes/assessments, development of individualized treatment plans, group facilitation, individual counseling, and oversight of therapeutic community activities. Substance Abuse Counselors perform professional duties in areas of screening, assessment, case management, education, and treatment of clients and perform related administrative duties and recordkeeping in accordance with the standards and requirements of the Nevada Board of Examiners for Alcohol, Drug and Gambling Counselors.

Essential Qualifications Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university in a field of social science approved by the Nevada Board of Examiners for Alcohol, Drug and Gambling Counselors and eligibility for certification as an Alcohol and Drug Counselor Intern as established by State law and the Board. Job Duties Perform initial screenings and assessments of clients; review personal history files and court documents and conduct personal interviews; gather pertinent information with the use of screening and assessment instruments such as Nevada Risk Assessment System (NRAS), American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) and Diagnostic Statistical Manual (DSM) standards; diagnose and/or classify substance abusers, extent of alcohol and drug abuse and personality traits; determine classification, level of care, treatment needs and continuity of care. Prepare written treatment plans; monitor and document client progress in relation to treatment plans, goals and objectives and adjust level of care accordingly; document contacts and services; prepare assessment, discharge, and progress reports and summaries as required.

Plan, develop, organize and conduct alcohol and drug abuse cessation and prevention classes; prepare course curriculum based upon the goals and objectives set by the facility; conduct orientation and individual and/or group counseling, intervention, education and referral; facilitate crisis and behavior intervention to include referral for mental health services and/or other resources; consult with and utilize other services, agencies, resources and professionals as needed. Provide in-service training regarding counseling programs, education and services related to alcohol and drug abuse. Prepare statistical documentation and reports on caseload activities and services.

Maintain ethics and confidentiality standards according to regulation. Perform related duties as assigned. Under close supervision of a Licensed Substance Abuse Counselor, incumbents gain knowledge of, and are trained in, the full range of duties described in the series concept.

Incumbents must be certified as an Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor Intern by the Nevada Board of Examiners for Alcohol, Drug and Gambling Counselors. This is the entry level in the series. Progression to Substance Abuse Counselor II may only occur upon meeting minimum qualifications and with the recommendation of the appointing authority.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities General knowledge of: federal and State alcohol and drug abuse laws, rules and regulations; illegal substances, drug classifications and psychiatric medications used to treat abusers of alcohol and/or drugs; concepts, principles and techniques used in the screening, assessment and evaluation of abusers of alcohol and/or drugs; counseling and treatment of substance abusers in group and individual settings; American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) levels of service and treatment and the current edition of the Diagnostic Statistical Manual (DSM). Ability to: read technical, legal and scientific documents; interact and communicate effectively with persons of various social, cultural, economic and educational backgrounds; establish and maintain cooperative working relationships with others; write concise, logical and grammatically correct reports; explain policies, procedures, theories, and concepts to clients and families; make oral group presentations; follow through on assignments as directed. Recruiter Contact Information: Susan Ashley - q.ashley@admin.nv.gov The State of Nevada is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to building diverse, inclusive, and innovative work environments with employees who reflect our communities and enthusiastically serve them

All applicants are considered without regard to race, color, national origin, religion or belief, age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, domestic partnership, genetic information (GINA), or compensation and/or wages. Please send direct Inquiries or correspondence to the recruiter listed on this announcement.


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About State of Nevada

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The State of Nevada isn't a company in the traditional sense, but rather a governing body that manages and directs the operations of the state of Nevada. Its headquarters are located in Carson City, NV, United States. The organisation is engaged in various sectors like education, transportation, business and industry, health and human services, conservation and natural resources, and many more. It is responsible for implementing and maintaining the law and order of the state, in addition to providing essential services to its residents.

Industry

Health care and social assistance

Company size

501 - 1,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Carson City, NV, US

Year founded

1864