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Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Riverside, CA

Newport Academy

Credentialed Recovery Counselor

Orange, CA · On-site

$23.75 - $32/hr

... and substance abuse issues located in Orange County. The program combines the key elements ... Looking for Credentialed or Credential Eligible Recovery Counselor to work with adolescents ...

Newport Academy

Credentialed Recovery Counselor

Orange, CA · On-site

$23.75 - $32/hr

... and substance abuse issues located in Orange County. The program combines the key elements ... Looking for Credentialed or Credential Eligible Recovery Counselor to work with adolescents ...

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All JobsSubstance Abuse Counselor JobsEntry Level Substance Abuse Counselor JobsEntry Level Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Riverside, CA

Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor information

See Riverside, CA salary details

$14

$26

$37

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

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level substance abuse counselor in Riverside, CA is $26.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.31 and $30.10 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.

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.

Is becoming a substance abuse counselor worth it?

Becoming an entry-level substance abuse counselor can be a rewarding career for those interested in helping others and making a positive impact. It typically requires relevant certifications, strong communication skills, and the ability to work in a challenging environment. Job satisfaction and growth opportunities depend on experience, additional training, and the setting in which you work.

Can I become a substance abuse counselor without a degree?

Entry level substance abuse counselor positions typically require at least a high school diploma or equivalent, but many states and employers prefer candidates with some post-secondary education or certification. Certification programs or specialized training in addiction counseling can also be necessary, and licensing requirements vary by location. Having relevant skills, such as empathy and communication, is important for success in this role.

How to get experience in substance abuse?

To gain experience as an entry-level substance abuse counselor, individuals can volunteer or intern at treatment centers, community organizations, or healthcare facilities to develop relevant skills. Obtaining certification such as the Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) or similar credentials can also enhance practical knowledge and job prospects.
More about Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Riverside, CA? For Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA 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 Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 81% Full Time, and 14% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $55,271 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Case Manager Substance Use Counselor - Mental Health 345

Telecare Corporation

San Bernardino, CA • On-site

$25.35 - $31.32/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New

Telecare Corporation rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

305th of 887 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Description

"They made it easier for me to live, breathe, eat, and stay clean. Without them, I'd be waiting somewhere, waiting for someone to give me a chance to live..." - Client from Telecare

What You Will Do to Change Lives

The Case Manager Substance Use Counselor Certified serves as the primary support and case manager for individuals with mental illness by assisting them to live as independently as possible in their chosen community, focusing on substance abuse and addictions

Shifts Available:

Full-Time | AM | Shifts: 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM | Days: Monday - Friday

Expected starting wage range is $25.35 - $31.32. Telecare applies geographic differentials to its pay ranges. The pay range assigned to this role will be based on the geographic location from which the role is performed. Starting pay is commensurate with relevant experience above the minimum requirements.

What You Bring to the Table (Must Have)

  • High School Diploma or G.E.D and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), or Certified Addiction Treatment Counselor (CATC), Substance Use Disorder Certified Counselor (SUDCC, SUDCC II, III, IV), or Chemical Dependency Professional (CDP in the state of WA). In AZ must be certified as Minimum state requirements as a Licensed Independent Substance Abuse Counselor (LISAC), Licensed Associate Substance Abuse Counselor (LASAC) or Licensed Substance Abuse Technician (LSAT)
  • Six (6) months' experience in addictions setting
  • All certifications must be maintained for duration of employment
  • Within two (2) months of employment, ability to apply financial requirements for billing and learn billing codes
  • Sensitivity to multi-cultural populations and issues
  • Must be credentialed as a qualified mental health professional, where applicable
  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • Must be CPR, First Aid, and CPI certified (hands-on course) on date of employment or prior to providing direct client care and maintain current certification throughout employment
  • Valid and current driver's license, and personal vehicle insurance with your name listed as a driver.
  • Willingness to use the company vehicle to drive clients to appointments and groups, etc.

What's In It For You*

  • Paid Time Off: Eligible employees (20+ hours/week) earn PTO each pay period for vacation and personal needs, with pro-rated accrual for part-time schedules and annual carryover up to set caps.
  • Nine Paid Holidays & Shift differentials for hourly staff (6% for PM Shift, 10% for Overnight Shift). Weekend Shift differentials for hourly staff (5% for Weekend AM Shift, 11% for Weekend PM Shift, 15% for Weekend Overnight Shift)
  • Free CEUs, free Supervision for BBS Associate License, coaching, and mentorship
  • Online University Tuition Discount and Company Scholarships
  • Medical, Vision, Dental Insurance, 401K, Employee Stock Ownership Plan
  • For more information visit:https://www.telecarecorp.com/benefits

Join Our Compassionate Team

Telecare's mission is to deliver excellent and effective behavioral health services that engage individuals in recovering their health, hopes, and dreams. Telecare continues to advance cultural diversity, humility, equity, and inclusion at all levels of our organization by hiring mental health peers, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, veterans, and all belief systems.

The Windsor Center is a short-stay crisis stabilization unit (CSU) that offers 24/7 services to adults and youth. The Windsor Center aims to increase access to crisis services, reduce inpatient hospitalization, reduce the amount of time that law enforcement is involved in a mental health crisis, and strengthen the existing outpatient behavioral health services.

EOE AA M/F/V/Disability

*May vary by location and position type

Full Job Description will be provided if selected for an interview.

If job posting references any sign-on bonus internal applicants and applicants employed with Telecare in the previous 12 months would not be eligible.

Qualifications

Education
High School (required)
GED (required)

Licenses & Certifications
Cert Alcohol Drug Couns (required)
Cert Addict Trtmnt Cnslr (required)
Chemical Depndcy Prof-WA (required)

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

What Telecare Corporation employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Telecare logo

About Telecare

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in 1965, Telecare is a rapidly growing mental health care company dedicated to making a difference for our clients, the community, and our employees. We offer an array of mental health services to adults with serious mental illness. We partner with public sector entities and behavioral health organizations and have over 155 programs and over 4,300 employees across the country. And we're growing all the time! When you work at Telecare, you help to empower thousands of individuals every day in their journeys of recovery.

Industry

Offices of mental health practitioners

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alameda, CA, US

Year founded

1965

Social media

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