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Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Springfield, MA

baymark

Substance use Counselor

Westfield, MA · On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Substance abuse counselors may also need to collaborate with doctors, nurses, and therapists for patients' therapy and treatment for the best overall outcome. Responsibilities: * Conducts individual ...

InterCommunity

CLINICIAN 1 - FULL-TIME

Hartford, CT · On-site

Substance Abuse Counselor An experienced counselor who possesses knowledge about substance abuse treatment. Trained in a variety of therapeutic techniques used to address issues, including but not ...

COMMUNITY RENEWAL TEAM INC

Substance Use Counselor

Hartford, CT · On-site

$22.50 - $30.25/hr

Substance Use Counselor DEPARTMENT: Clinical Services FLSA STATUS: Exempt PAY GRADE: 9 REPORTS TO: Director of Integrated Services-MAT GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES The Substance Use counselor will ...

Insight Global

Housing Case Manager

Hartford, CT · On-site

$20 - $22/hr

Housing Case Managers assist project-based and scattered-site tenant-clients by providing services and referrals for a variety of needs including general assistance, substance abuse counseling ...

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All JobsSubstance Abuse Counselor JobsEntry Level Substance Abuse Counselor JobsEntry Level Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Springfield, MA

Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor information

See Springfield, MA salary details

$14

$25

$35

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

As of Aug 23, 2026, the average hourly pay for entry level substance abuse counselor in Springfield, MA is $25.38, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.30 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.
More about Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor jobs

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The most popular types of Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Springfield, MA are:

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

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

What cities near Springfield, MA are hiring for Entry Level Substance Abuse Counselor jobs?

Cities near Springfield, MA 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 Springfield, MA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $52,793 per year, or $25.4 per hour.

Substance use Counselor

baymark

Westfield, MA • On-site

$22 - $26/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 21 days ago

Job description

Description
Position at Health Care Resource Centers
Compassionate Substance Use Counselor Needed!
Position Overview:
Substance use counselor will be in charge of assisting patients through medically assisting programs and offering techniques for handling opioid addiction. Counselor conducts group sessions and individual sessions to assist with crisis management and coping strategies. Additionally, the counselor will evaluate patients' progress during therapy. Substance abuse counselors may also need to collaborate with doctors, nurses, and therapists for patients' therapy and treatment for the best overall outcome.
Responsibilities:
  • Conducts individual initial assessment and evaluation interviews for service eligibility determination
  • Facilitates establishes and reviews with each patient the initial treatment plan
  • Completes Bio-psychosocial assessment.
  • Provide individual and group counseling services; direct service hours at regularly scheduled intervals; coordinate all services throughout treatment
  • Involve families and significant others in patient's recovery process whenever possible
  • Respond, as needed, to patient grievances and complaints
  • Develop aftercare plans and discharge plans
  • Other related duties as determined by the supervisor

Qualifications:
  • Bachelor's Degree with a minimum of 1 year of individual counseling experience
  • Master's Degree in Behavioral Science with a minimum of 1 year of individual counseling experience
  • Associate's Degree or High School Diploma with a current certification and 1 year of supervision. Certifications include CAC (Certified Addiction Counselor), CADC (Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor), or CADC II or Massachusetts state LADC II
  • Previous experience working with chemically dependent individuals a plus.
  • Must demonstrate a positive, non-judgmental, and accepting attitude toward our patient population
  • Satisfactory criminal background check and drug screen

Salary Range:
Salary ranges from $22.00 to $26.00 an hour.
The salary of the candidate(s) selected for this role will be set based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, experience, education, specialty, and training.
BayMark offers excellent benefits:
  • 401K match
  • Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance
  • Voluntary Worksite Benefits (i.e., Accidental Injury)
  • Company paid Short & Long Term Disability
  • Company paid Basic Life Insurance
  • Paid Time Off
  • Bereavement Leave
  • Flexible Sick Time
  • Employee Referral Program
  • BayMark Perks Program
  • Jury Duty & Witness Duty Leave
  • BayMark University Learning

Total compensation goes beyond the value on the paycheck. Please consider the total compensation package by contacting us at BayMark Health Services for more information.
What to expect from us:
Health Care Resource Centers, a BayMark Health Services Company, is a progressive substance abuse treatment program, committed to the highest quality of patient care in a comfortable outpatient clinic setting. Our ultimate goal is to address the physical, emotional, and mental aspects of opioid use disorder to help each of our patients achieve long-term recovery and an improved quality of life.
BayMark Health Services is committed to providing Equal Employment Opportunities (EEO) and to follow compliance guidelines with all Federal, State and local laws that prohibit employment discrimination on the basis of race, color, age, natural origin, ethnicity, religion, gender, pregnancy, marital status, sexual orientation, citizenship, genetic disposition, disability or veteran's status or any other classification protected by State/Federal laws

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