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Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

Avento Health

Substance Use Case Manager

Glen Ellen, CA · On-site

$27 - $30/hr

Current registered, trainee, or certified substance use counselor credential, such as RADT, SUDRC, RAC, CATC Trainee, CADC, SUDCC, CATC, or another qualifying credential. * High school diploma or GED ...

Living at Reflections

Program Assistant (Weekend)

Novato, CA · On-site

$44K - $55K/yr

Under the supervision of a delegated Substance Abuse Counselor or Program Director, work towards obtaining the Twelve (12) Core Functions hours needed to become a certified substance abuse counselor

Live Oaks Wellness

Residential Counselor

Novato, CA · On-site

$20 - $25/hr

Looking for a client-focused Residential Counselor, who has knowledge of mental health and substance abuse clientele! We are seeking to fill a Part-Time Residential Counselor position. General ...

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Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor information

See Santa Rosa, CA salary details

$15

$27

$38

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

As of Sep 5, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level substance abuse counselor in Santa Rosa, CA is $27.85, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.41 and $31.54 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 Santa Rosa, CA?

The most popular types of Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:

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For Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Santa Rosa, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

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The top searched job categories for Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Santa Rosa, CA are:

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Cities near Santa Rosa, 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 Santa Rosa, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $57,923 per year, or $27.8 per hour.

Substance Use Case Manager

Avento Health

Glen Ellen, CA • On-site

$27 - $30/hr

Full-time

Posted 16 days ago

Job description

Substance Use Case Manager

Location: Glen Ellen, California

Job Type: Full-time, W-2

Schedule: Tuesday–Saturday, 9:00 AM–5:30 PM

Pay: $27–$30 per hour, depending on experience and credential

Work Setting: Residential substance use treatment / detox

Position Overview

Avento Health is recruiting a full-time Substance Use Case Manager for a residential treatment program in Glen Ellen, California, near Santa Rosa.

This is a case-management-focused role supporting adults throughout the substance use treatment and recovery process. The Case Manager works with an assigned caseload of approximately 10–12 clients and is responsible for care planning, treatment documentation, admissions support, coordination of services, and aftercare planning.

This position is especially well suited to someone with substance use treatment experience who enjoys direct client support, strong documentation responsibilities, and collaborating with an interdisciplinary treatment team.

Key Responsibilities

  • Serve as the primary case manager for an assigned caseload of approximately 10–12 clients.
  • Complete assessments and help develop individualized treatment plans.
  • Maintain accurate and timely progress notes, treatment documentation, and client records.
  • Monitor client progress and update treatment plans as needs change.
  • Support admissions, orientation, and transitions into the treatment program.
  • Coordinate medical, behavioral health, legal, referral, and other client needs.
  • Communicate with families, referral sources, and members of the treatment team as appropriate.
  • Support clients with discharge and aftercare planning.
  • Observe client self-administration of medications when required and document appropriately.
  • Collaborate closely with clinical and support staff to promote continuity of care.

Required Qualifications

  • Experience working with individuals receiving substance use disorder, chemical dependency, addiction treatment, or related behavioral health services.
  • Current registered, trainee, or certified substance use counselor credential, such as RADT, SUDRC, RAC, CATC Trainee, CADC, SUDCC, CATC, or another qualifying credential.
  • High school diploma or GED with appropriate specialized training in chemical dependency, or higher education in a related field.
  • Strong case management, treatment planning, documentation, and care coordination skills.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work effectively with clients from diverse backgrounds.
  • Current First Aid and CPR certification.
  • Ability to work Tuesday through Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM.

Preferred Qualifications

  • Previous experience in residential substance use treatment or detox.
  • College-level education in counseling, behavioral health, social services, psychology, or a related discipline.
  • Experience working with clients with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders.
  • Experience coordinating medical, legal, behavioral health, or community referrals.
  • Familiarity with 12-Step programs and other recovery-support models.
  • MFT or LCSW licensure is a plus but is not required.

Why Consider This Opportunity

  • Predictable daytime schedule: Tuesday–Saturday, 9:00 AM–5:30 PM.
  • No regular on-call requirement.
  • Manage a defined caseload of approximately 10–12 clients.
  • Strong focus on case management rather than primarily running counseling groups.
  • Opportunity to work closely with an interdisciplinary substance use treatment team.
  • Employer pays approximately 70% of eligible employee benefit costs.
  • Full-time W-2 employment.

Equal Employment Opportunity

Avento Health and its clients are equal opportunity employers. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law.

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