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Forensic Addictions Counselor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Delta-T Group Inc

Forensic Case Manager

PA · On-site

Bachelor Degree in criminal justice, psychology, social work, sociology, counseling. * 1 year ... Some experience working in addictions field DTG ADVANTAGES * Establish a relationship with one of ...

Racing For Recovery

Psychologist - PhD

Holland, OH · On-site

$75K - $95K/yr

Addiction counseling: Providing personalized strategies and support for overcoming addiction and ... Therapy/Therapeutical Services, Risk Assessment, Testing Procedures, Interviewing, Forensics

OneEighty

JUSTICE CENTER COUNSELOR

Wooster, OH · On-site

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

Experience in correctional, forensic, or community mental health * Training in suicide assessment ... Hope starts here. We're a private nonprofit serving Wayne and Holmes counties with addiction ...

OneEighty

JUSTICE CENTER COUNSELOR

Wooster, OH · On-site

$17.75 - $23.75/hr

Experience in correctional, forensic, or community mental health * Training in suicide assessment ... Hope starts here. We're a private nonprofit serving Wayne and Holmes counties with addiction ...

Horizon House Inc

Mental Health Professional

Swarthmore, PA

$50K - $65K/yr

Bachelor's Degree required. * 1 year experience working in forensics * 1 year experience working in behavioral health * Certified Addiction Counselor (CAC), preferred, with ongoing coursework in drug ...

Horizon House Inc

Mental Health Professional

Swarthmore, PA

$50K - $65K/yr

Bachelor's Degree required. * 1 year experience working in forensics * 1 year experience working in behavioral health * Certified Addiction Counselor (CAC), preferred, with ongoing coursework in drug ...

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Forensic Addictions Counselor information

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$32.5K

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How much do forensic addictions counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for forensic addictions counselor in the United States is $54,226.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $45,500.00 and $61,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

How much do forensic mental health counselors make?

Forensic addictions counselors in New York City typically earn between $50,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, certifications, and work setting. Salaries can vary based on the employer, caseload, and additional qualifications such as licensure or specialized training.

How to become a forensic counselor?

To become a forensic addictions counselor, you typically need a bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, or a related field, followed by specialized training or certification in addiction counseling. Many positions require state licensure or certification, which involves completing supervised clinical hours and passing an exam. Gaining experience in mental health or substance abuse treatment settings is also beneficial for this role.

What are some common challenges faced by Forensic Addictions Counselors working within the criminal justice system?

Forensic Addictions Counselors often encounter challenges such as managing clients who are resistant to treatment due to court mandates, navigating complex legal and ethical issues, and working with individuals who have co-occurring mental health disorders. Counselors must balance the requirements of the legal system with the needs of their clients, while maintaining confidentiality and building trust. Additionally, collaboration with probation officers, attorneys, and other professionals is frequent, requiring strong communication skills and adaptability.

What is the highest paid forensic job?

The highest paid forensic job is typically a forensic science director or senior forensic laboratory manager, who oversees forensic investigations and laboratory operations. These roles often require advanced degrees, certifications, and extensive experience, with salaries exceeding $100,000 annually depending on the location and organization.

Is it hard to get hired as a forensic psychologist?

Forensic addictions counselors typically need relevant education, such as a bachelor's or master's degree in counseling or psychology, along with specialized training in addiction and forensic settings. Competition can be moderate, and obtaining certifications like Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC) can improve job prospects. Experience and strong interpersonal skills are also important for employment in this field.

What is the difference between Forensic Addictions Counselor vs Substance Abuse Counselor?

AspectForensic Addictions CounselorSubstance Abuse Counselor
CredentialsState certification, CADC, or equivalent; may require additional forensic trainingState certification, CADC or CAC
Work EnvironmentCriminal justice settings, forensic facilities, courtsRehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, community health settings
Employer & IndustryCriminal justice, forensic hospitals, correctional facilitiesHealthcare, mental health clinics, community organizations
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared due to forensic focus and certification requirementsMore general addiction treatment roles

In summary, Forensic Addictions Counselors specialize in working within the criminal justice system and forensic settings, often requiring additional forensic training. Substance Abuse Counselors typically work in healthcare and community settings, focusing on addiction treatment without the forensic component. Both roles require certification but differ mainly in work environment and focus.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Forensic Addictions Counselor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Forensic Addictions Counselor, you need a background in counseling, addiction treatment, and criminal justice, often supported by a relevant degree and state licensure or certification. Familiarity with assessment tools, treatment planning software, and legal documentation systems is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to build trust and motivate clients are crucial soft skills. These competencies enable counselors to effectively support individuals within the justice system, ensuring ethical care and promoting recovery while addressing public safety concerns.

What is a Forensic Addictions Counselor?

A Forensic Addictions Counselor is a specialized professional who works with individuals involved in the criminal justice system who struggle with substance abuse or addiction. These counselors assess, treat, and support clients as they work toward recovery, often as part of court-mandated programs or rehabilitation efforts. They collaborate with legal and healthcare professionals to develop treatment plans, provide therapy, and help clients navigate legal obligations related to their substance use. Their goal is to reduce recidivism and promote long-term sobriety. The role requires knowledge of addiction, counseling techniques, and the criminal justice system.
More about Forensic Addictions Counselor jobs
What job categories do people searching Forensic Addictions Counselor jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Forensic Addictions Counselor jobs are:
Forensic Addictions Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Forensic Addictions Counselor job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $54,226 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

Community Addiction & Recovery Counselor II (Forensic Assertive Community Treatment)

Cascadia Health

Portland, OR • On-site

$48K - $64K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 10 days ago

Cascadia Health rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 18 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

Job description

Community Addiction & Recovery Counselor II (Forensic Assertive Community Treatment)
Job Overview
Location/Schedule: This position is based at Kerns Building located in NE Portland, OR, but work is primarily performed in the community. The schedule for the position is typically Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with some night and weekend availability needed as necessary, as well as participation in an on-call rotation.
Position: Community Addiction and Recovery Counselor II
Program: Forensic Assertive Community Treatment
Cascadia's Mission and Vision
Mission: Cascadia Health delivers whole health care integrated mental health and addiction services, primary care, and housing to promote hope and support the well-being of the communities we serve.
Vision: We envision a community where everyone benefits from whole health care, experiences well-being, and has a self-directed, connected life.
Position Description: The Community Addiction and Recovery Counselor II provides comprehensive, person-centered care through collaboration with interdisciplinary team. This position supports those receiving services, in achieving effective and individualized outcomes.
This position must understand, appreciate, and respect the differences within our Cascadia community. As such, it is expected that this position promotes integrated care, our vision of trauma-informed and person-first approaches and helps create a work environment of acceptance.
Essential Responsibilities
This position description is not intended to be an all-inclusive list of responsibilities, skills, or working conditions associated with the position. Management reserves the right to modify, add or remove duties as necessary.
General
  • Collaborate within a team setting to ensure continuity of care and coordinate with internal and external service providers.
  • Provide Alcohol and Drug Assessments and create collaborative and clinically informed service plans.
  • Integrate best practices into clinical services and day-to-day operations including minimizing harm, goal-oriented approaches and person first solutions.
  • Support the individuals we serve in setting personal goals and identifying realistic steps to achieve them.
  • Develop, implement, and evaluate service plans using established treatment models throughout an individual's duration of care, as clinically indicated.
  • Facilitate group and individual therapy and conduct family/support person sessions.
  • Identify risk factors associated with recurring substance use or recidivism, monitor treatment effectiveness, and recommend alternative strategies as needed.
  • Support individuals we serve to build sustained recovery plans.
  • Provide transitional care planning and coordination, including when individuals meet criteria for higher or lower levels of care, or are transitioning back to the community.
  • Provide case management, including coordinating and monitoring services.
  • As needed, perform sample collections for drug testing, ensuring adherence to the chain of custody.
  • Act as the liaison between individuals served and community agencies.
  • Advocate for resources and access to services such as housing, benefits, employment, legal and other resources for the individuals we serve.
  • Apply Feedback Informed Treatment (FIT) practices as part of service delivery team and in alignment with Cascadia and program's current level of FIT implementation.

Regulatory & Compliance
  • Comply with and implement regulations, policies, and procedures under which the program operates.
  • Assist in crisis situations as appropriate, following emergency protocols/procedures and coordinating with the treatment team with interventions which support a trauma informed environment for residents and staff.
  • Respect and honor client rights and responsibilities and demonstrate professional boundaries.
  • Document and maintain clinical records in a manner that assures compliance with all agency policies and procedures and local, state, and federal regulations, as well as billing requirements.
  • Maintain accurate and up-to-date documentation as required, associated with assessment, treatment, client's progress, and other activities. Complete electronic medical records (EMR) as required using Cascadia software.
  • Demonstrate responsibility for safety of those served.
  • Understand fire regulations and evacuation procedures; participate in regular safety drills with residents in compliance with program policies and procedures.
  • Adhere to mandatory abuse reporting laws and HIPAA requirements.
  • Complete annual employee training requirements on a timely basis as indicated in the licensing requirements for the facility as well as agency requirements.
  • Participate in all scheduled staff meetings, supervision sessions, and other departmental and agency meetings.
  • Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications
Education:
Required:
  • Must be at least a CADC-R with completion of an Addictions Counseling program and eligible for a CADC I and obtain CADC within two years of applicant status per MHACBO requirements.

Preferred:
  • CADC I, CADC II

Experience:
Required:
  • A minimum of one year's experience serving the addiction needs of individuals.

Specialized Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
  • Effective communication and active listening skills.
  • Demonstrated effective interpersonal and customer service skills.
  • Philosophy and values consistent with a patient-centered care model.
  • Ability to work proactively and effectively in a team as well as independently.
  • Basic Knowledge of Trauma Informed Care (TIC), Motivational Interviewing, and Evidence based practices
  • Basic Understanding of recovery model, illness management and strength-based philosophies
  • Operate computer hardware and software at a level needed to effectively perform job functions.

Other:
  • Employee must possess a valid driver's license, one year driving history; clean driving record, ability to pass Driver Motor Vehicle (DMV) check and complete the Cascadia online Defensive Driving course.
  • Must have access to a reliable mode of transportation to commute around the Portland metro area.
  • All client-facing positions must have the ability to perform Basic Life Support (BLS) and properly use AED equipment. BLS certification training will be provided within the first 60 days of hire. Certification must remain current.

Working Conditions
Environmental: This role is centered on direct client, staff and community engagement, it is designed for in-person work and does not include hybrid or remote work options.
Work is performed in one or more of the following: administrative office, clinical office, acute care settings and community setting including client residences, correctional facilities, shelters, hospitals, public places and other social service sites. Meal periods and breaks are subject to interruption. Universal Precautions and remaining alert to the environment are critical to address the potential for aggressive behavior, exposure to disease, biohazards, noise, and contaminants. Ability to be able to work weekends, evenings, and provide on call support to assigned team.
Mental Demands: The work assigned is diverse and involves addressing new and unusual circumstances. The work regularly involves a degree of unpredictability and disruption of planned tasks requiring a flexible time management approach. In addition, this position requires exercising sound judgment.
Cascadia is an Equal Opportunity Employer. If you need assistance or accommodation due to a disability, contact us at 503-963-7654.
Benefits
We offer generous benefits for our full-time and part-time employees (20 hours + pro-rated) including:
  • Generous Paid Time Off Package Full-time employees earn 6 weeks of PTO in their first year!
  • Medical and Dental Coverage (begins 1st of the month following 30 days after hire date)
  • VSP Vision Discount Plan
  • 403(B) Retirement Savings (Pre and post-tax plans with up to 8% employer matching contribution!)
  • Flexible Spending Account (FSA) (Medical, dependent care, and transportation options)
  • Short-Term Disability, Long-Term Disability, and Life Insurance
  • Paid Bereavement and Jury Duty Leave
  • Length of Service Award
  • Voluntary Life Insurance
  • Supplemental Insurance
  • Student loan forgiveness options

Wellness Benefits:
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
  • Bicycle Reimbursement
  • Discounted Fitness Memberships
  • Trauma Support Team

Starting Rate Range in USD ($)
$26.45 - $27.65

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