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Forensic Addictions Counselor Jobs (NOW HIRING)

... counseling, experimental psychology, industrial psychology, psychometrics, organizational ... addictions, sex offender assessment and treatment, or forensic mental health. The following ...

Associate Psychologist

Middletown, NY · On-site

$88K - $111K/yr

... counseling, experimental psychology, industrial psychology, psychometrics, organizational ... addictions, sex offender assessment and treatment, or forensic mental health. The following ...

Psychologist 2

Chester, NY · On-site

$88K - $111K/yr

... counseling, experimental psychology, industrial psychology, psychometrics, organizational ... addictions, sex offender assessment and treatment, or forensic mental health. The following ...

Bilingual Treatment Court Case Manager

Philadelphia, PA · On-site

$20.50 - $26/hr

Provide case management services to individuals or participants with current forensic affiliations ... counseling, or education and have 1+ years of experience in direct participant contact in an ...

Showing results 41-60

Forensic Addictions Counselor information

See salary details

$32.5K

$54.2K

$71K

How much do forensic addictions counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 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.

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 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?

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:
Infographic showing various Forensic Addictions Counselor job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 2% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 91% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 8% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $54,226 per year, or $26.1 per hour.

$4.7K - $6.0K/mo

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Re-posted 7 days ago


Job description

Description Mental Health Associate 1 - Forensics Team Mental Health Department (Classification 755) SEIU Represented Full-Time (37.5 hours/week) position This position is open until filled. First review of applications will be on July 15, 2026. Any applications received after July 15 will be reviewed and considered as needed, and this posting may close at any time after that date

Linn County requires on-site work. Remote work is not available. Job Summary The Qualified Mental Health Associate (QMHA) assigned to the Forensics Team, provides community based skills training, case management, and competency restoration support to individuals who have been found unable to aid and assist in their own defense due to mental illness.

Under the clinical supervision of a Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP), the QMHA implements individualized service plans designed to support stabilization, treatment engagement, and restoration of competency. Core duties include providing psychoeducation regarding court processes and roles within the legal system; assisting clients in developing coping, communication, and daily living skills; monitoring client progress toward restoration goals; coordinating services with courts, attorneys, corrections staff, and community providers; transporting clients to appointments and court as appropriate; and documenting all services in accordance with program policies, Medicaid requirements, and applicable Oregon Administrative Rules. The position requires the ability to work effectively with justice involved individuals experiencing serious mental illness, manage complex and high risk situations in community settings, and collaborate as part of a multidisciplinary forensic behavioral health team.

Minimum Qualifications Bachelor's Degree in psychology, social work, counseling or closely related behavior science field preferred; or four years of progressive experience in a mental health service program involving general client needs; or any satisfactory equivalent combination of experience, education and training which demonstrates the ability to perform the work described. Registration with The Mental Health and Addictions Certification Board of Oregon (MHACBO) as a Qualified Mental Health Associate-R (QMHA-R) or Qualified Mental Health Associate (QMHA) I within 30 days of employment. Must be able to be credentialed as a Qualified Mental Health Associate with all Medicaid insurances.

Must be able to pass a criminal history check and not be on the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) disqualified list. Possession of a valid motor vehicle operator's license and an acceptable driving record that meets the county's requirements. This is a non-supervisory position.

Lead work and coordination of work of others is not a typical function assigned to this position. Incumbents in this position may provide training and orientation to newly assigned personnel. PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIRONMENT: Work is generally performed in an office environment under usual office working conditions.

Work involves traveling all over Linn County including operation of a motor vehicle and movement from the vehicle to the office, clinics, community agencies, or schools. Within the office, typical office environment noise levels exist with some telephones, personal interruptions, and background noise. In the performance of job duties, the employee is required to remain in a stationary position most of the time and occasionally move to access and use office machinery or engage with other County employees and members of the public.

Position requires regularly attending meetings for prolonged periods of time and frequently communicating with County employees and members of the public to exchange information. Position requires interacting and accommodating individuals experiencing communication barriers and behavioral support needs. Must occasionally lift and/or move up to thirty (30) pounds.

Manual dexterity and coordination are required while operating equipment including, but not limited to, phone system and personal computer including word processing, spreadsheets and data base software; computerized record systems; copy and fax machines, calculator, computer keyboard, video display terminal and other related tools and equipment. Position requires the ability to operate a motor vehicle in order to travel between offices and in the community. Some out of County and overnight travel may be required for training.

May be required to flex schedule in order to accommodate community members and complete work. Special Requirements VISA SPONSORSHIP Linn County does not offer VISA sponsorship. Within three days of hire, applicants will be required to complete the US Department of Homeland Security's I-9 form confirming authorization to work in the United States.

If your employment authorization and documentation is contingent on sponsorship now or in the future, you will not meet Agency employment eligibility standards. Linn County is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer