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Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Santa Rosa, CA

Associate Therapist

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$35 - $45/hr

... Counseling, or Social Work and MFT or Clinical Psychologist credential - licensed in the State of California. * Minimum of one (1) year of related work experience in Substance Abuse Recovery.

Licensed Therapist

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$50 - $62/hr

Provides individual and group therapy to clients with Substance Abuse and/or Mental Health ... Applicant must be an LCSW, LMFT, LPCC, or Licensed Psychologist. * Full and unrestricted license ...

LVN/LPT Per Diem

Santa Rosa, CA · On-site

$37 - $45/hr

Additional $2.00 per hour differential for Bilingual English/Spanish speaking counselors with ... One year of experience in a substance abuse treatment setting (preferred). * Able to read, write ...

Staff Physician

Cloverdale, CA · On-site

$203K - $255K/yr

... the patient. · Counsel patients and families as to preventative care, medical problems ... Nutritional education, physical therapy, substance abuse, smoking cessation, weight loss ...

Staff Physician

Cloverdale, CA · On-site

$203K - $255K/yr

... the patient. · Counsel patients and families as to preventative care, medical problems ... Nutritional education, physical therapy, substance abuse, smoking cessation, weight loss ...

Staff Physician

Cloverdale, CA · On-site

$203K - $255K/yr

... the patient. • Counsel patients and families as to preventative care, medical problems ... Nutritional education, physical therapy, substance abuse, smoking cessation, weight loss ...

Certified Nurse Midwife- Per Diem

Napa, CA · On-site

$78.50 - $86.34/hr

... dental, substance abuse treatment, behavioral health, and outreach services to low income ... Demonstrated skills to provide culturally sensitive, age, and literacy appropriate counseling and ...

Certified Nurse Midwife- Per Diem

Napa, CA · On-site

$78.50 - $86.34/hr

... dental, substance abuse treatment, behavioral health, and outreach services to low income ... Demonstrated skills to provide culturally sensitive, age, and literacy appropriate counseling and ...

Showing results 21-40

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 1, 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.

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:

What are popular job titles related to Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Santa Rosa, CA?

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

What job categories do people searching Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Santa Rosa, CA look for?

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

What cities near Santa Rosa, CA are hiring for Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor jobs?

Cities near Santa Rosa, CA with the most Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor job openings:

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.

Financial Counselor (Santa Rosa)

Northern California Behavioral Health System

Santa Rosa, CA • On-site

$25 - $31.56/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 21 days ago


Job description

ABOUT US:

Formerly Aurora Santa Rosa Hospital, SRBHH was opened in 2016 and is regarded as an integral part of the greater Santa Rosa and Northern California mental health system of care. Conveniently located in the North Bay, this hospital consists of 144 acute psychiatric inpatient beds.

Santa Rosa Behavioral Healthcare Hospital (SRBHH) is regarded as an integral part of the greater Santa Rosa and Northern California mental health system of care.

Conveniently located in the North Bay, SRBHH serves adolescents and adults. We treat both mental health and co-occurring psychiatric and substance abuse conditions.

POSITION TITLE: Financial Counselor

Pay: $25.00-$31.56/hour

REPORTS TO (TITLE): Director of Business Office

DESCRIPTION OF POSITION:

The Financial Counselor will work closely with all members of the Revenue Cycle Team, Patient Access, Patient Accounts, and Case Management including case managers and social workers. Financial Counselors will also collaborate with nursing units,  physicians and their staff, insurance companies, attorneys and Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services. The Financial Counselor is responsible for admission of patients including patient interviews, and some cashiering. Duties include facilitating information to respond to inquiries pertaining to admissions and billing questions. Responsible for the coordination of all credit and collection procedures on the front end, assessing and rapid resolution of self-pay account balances, assessment of all private pay accounts, and verifying insurance and other governmental programs for inpatient and outpatient accounts. Financial Counselors are an integral part of the Revenue Cycle Team and a key component of Patient Access. Responsible for assisting with decreasing denials, increasing reimbursements, and being pro-active in assessing disposition of high dollar accounts.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

  • Patient Admissions:  Arranges patient admission to facility. Receives and interviews incoming patients or relatives to obtain pertinent data and verify insurance coverage.  Types and processes necessary admission paperwork. Ensures timely communication of patient admission to other departments.
  • Financial Counseling:  Provides financial options to patients and authorized family members prior to admission.  Assists in resolution of routine admitting inquiries.  May also interface with medical staff for information required for patient admissions.
  • Maintain patient valuables:  Collect monies and accept patient valuables for safekeeping for patients during his or her stay at the hospital.
  • Set up and record payments for patient services:  Set up payment arrangement with self-pay patients.  Collects co-payments when applicable.
  • Supplemental Receptionist Coverage: Able to fill in to help the reception desk if needed, including answering and redirecting phone calls, greeting and providing callers or visitors with information, and duties related to this coverage as requested.
  • Knowledge of Third-Party payers, Medi-Cal TAR processes, billing requirements, and reimbursement methods
  • Knowledge of Medical Terminology
  • Thorough understanding of charity care processing, federal poverty guidelines and indigent criteria
  • Timely reporting of appropriate accounts is essential.
  • Ability to understand charge description master, provide price estimates, analyze and work daily, weekly and monthly reports.
  • Excellent Communication Skills
  • Professional Appearance
  • Good PC Software Skills
  • Must work independently and maintain workflow.
  • Knowledge of multi-registration and front-end processing.
  • Service Excellence
  • Handle incoming calls professionally and timely.
  • Demonstrate service and commitment in working with peers, management team and other hospital staff.

Requirements

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

Knowledge and Experience:

  • High school degree or equivalent required.
  • Knowledge of CPT/ICD-10 coding helpful. Demonstrated knowledge of medical terminology and insurance billing.
  • Minimum of two years of healthcare billing and insurance knowledge
  • English proficiency required.

Skills and Abilities:

  • Maintains confidentiality of patients at all times.
  • Sensitivity to and willingness to interact with persons of various social, cultural, economic and educational backgrounds.
  • Proficiency with software and/or equipment (Microsoft Office applications including Outlook, Word, Excel and PowerPoint.)
  • Strong organizational skills with ability to prioritize projects, work relatively independently, manage multiple tasks, and meet deadlines.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Good judgment, problem solving and decision-making skills.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced, expanding organization.

Physical Requirements:

While performing the duties of this job, this position is frequently required to do the following:

  • Use standard office equipment and access, input, and retrieve information from a computer. Use computer keyboard with manual and finger dexterity and wrist-finger speed sufficient to perform repetitive actions efficiently for extended periods of time.
  • Communicate effectively in person or via telephone in a manner which can be understood by those with whom the person is speaking, including a diverse population.
  • Give and follow verbal and written instructions with attention to detail and accuracy.
  • Perform complex mental functions and basic arithmetic functions; interpret complex laws, regulations, and policies; collect, interpret, and/or analyze complex data and information.
  • Vision: see details of objects at close range.
  • Coordinate multiple tasks simultaneously.
  • Reach forward, up, down, and to the side.
  • Sit or stand for minimum periods of one hour at a time and come and go from the work area repeatedly throughout the day.
  • Lift up to fifteen (15) pounds.

#INDASR2

Benefits

    • Health Insurance
    • Vision Insurance
    • Dental Insurance
    • 401k Retirement Plan
    • Healthcare Spending Account
    • Life Insurance
      (Supplemental Life, Term and Universal plans are also available)
    • Short and Long-Term Disability
      (with additional buy-in opportunities)
    • PTO Plan with Holiday Premium Pay
    • Discounted Cafeteria Meal Plan
    • Tuition Reimbursement