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Independent Contractor Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Riverside, CA

unicare

Substance Use Disorder Counselor

Ontario, CA · On-site

$22.75 - $30.50/hr

Job Summary The Substance Use Disorder Counselor will work with individuals, families, and groups ... Serves as a mandated Child Protective Services (CPS) and Adult/Elder Abuse reporter. * Facilitates ...

Unicarechc

Substance Use Disorder Counselor

Ontario, CA · On-site

$60 - $85/hr

... Substance Use Disorder Counselor will work with individuals, families, and groups to provide ... Serves as a mandated Child Protective Services (CPS) and Adult/Elder Abuse reporter. * Facilitates ...

New

unicare

Substance Use Disorder Counselor

Ontario, CA · On-site

$22.75 - $30.50/hr

Job Summary The Substance Use Disorder Counselor will work with individuals, families, and groups ... Serves as a mandated Child Protective Services (CPS) and Adult/Elder Abuse reporter. * Facilitates ...

Acadia Healthcare

Substance Use Counselor

Anaheim, CA · On-site

$27 - $29/hr

Substance Use Counselor Requirements: * AOD Registration is required. * AOD Certification is preferred. * Registration/Certification must be obtained from a California-approved Counselor ...

Amity Foundation

Counselor I - CIM

Chino, CA · On-site

$20.50 - $27.75/hr

... Substance Abuse Counselor I at out in-prison facilities. This groundbreaking opportunity not only will be working in our prison programs to help the inmate population but will also enhance your ...

BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES INC

Counselor I/II

Pomona, CA · On-site

$24 - $29.05/hr

... substance abuse issues. To assist clients in identifying and achieving their treatment goals ... work independently and as part of a team. - Proficiency in documentation and record-keeping ...

Newport Healthcare

Milieu Counselor/Clinician

Orange, CA

$25.27 - $32.85/hr

The Milieu Counselor specifically addresses patients in need of immediate or emergent services. Key ... or substance abuse setting required. Compensation ranges from $25.27 to $32.85 depending on ...

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All JobsIndependent Contractor Substance Abuse Counselor JobsIndependent Contractor Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Riverside, CA

Independent Contractor Substance Abuse Counselor information

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How much do independent contractor substance abuse counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 4, 2026, the average hourly pay for independent contractor substance abuse counselor in Riverside, CA is $26.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.31 and $30.10 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an independent contractor substance abuse counselor?

An Independent Contractor Substance Abuse Counselor provides counseling services to individuals struggling with substance use disorders on a contractual basis. Instead of being a full-time employee, they work independently with treatment centers, clinics, or private clients. Their responsibilities include conducting assessments, developing treatment plans, facilitating therapy sessions, and providing relapse prevention strategies. They manage their own schedules, billing, and administrative tasks. This role requires licensure or certification, depending on state regulations.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an independent contractor substance abuse counselor?

To thrive as an Independent Contractor Substance Abuse Counselor, you need a solid understanding of addiction counseling principles, case management, and client assessment, usually backed by relevant licensure or certification. Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems, telehealth platforms, and progress tracking tools is often essential in this role. Excellent communication, active listening, and cultural competency are standout soft skills for building rapport and trust with diverse clients. These skills and qualifications are crucial for effectively supporting client recovery while managing the administrative and practical aspects of private practice.

What are some common challenges faced by independent contractor substance abuse counselors, and how can they be addressed?

Independent contractor substance abuse counselors often navigate challenges such as managing their own caseloads, establishing boundaries with clients, and ensuring consistent client engagement without a traditional workplace structure. Because they typically work independently, they must also handle tasks like scheduling, billing, and maintaining compliance with state regulations. To address these challenges, many counselors utilize organizational tools, set clear policies with clients, and participate in professional supervision or peer consultation groups. Building a strong support network and staying current with continuing education also helps maintain high standards of care while supporting professional growth.

Is it worth becoming an independent contractor substance abuse counselor?

Becoming an independent contractor substance abuse counselor offers flexibility in scheduling and the potential for higher hourly rates compared to salaried positions. However, it also requires managing own client acquisition, insurance, and taxes, and may lack benefits like health insurance and paid time off. Success depends on experience, networking, and the ability to handle administrative responsibilities.

Where do independent contractor substance abuse counselors make the most money?

Independent contractor substance abuse counselors tend to earn higher incomes in regions with higher living costs and greater demand for mental health services, such as urban areas or states with expanded healthcare funding. Earnings can also increase with specialized certifications, experience, and the ability to work in private practice or specialized treatment settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Riverside, CA?

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Independent Contractor Substance Abuse Counselor jobs near you

Substance Use Disorder Counselor

Unicare Health, LLC

Ontario, CA • On-site

$43 - $65/hr

Full-time

This job post has expired 1 day ago. Applications are no longer accepted.

Job description

Job Summary
The Substance Use Disorder Counselor will work with individuals, families, and groups to provide therapeutic support and education to those affected by substance misuse in a manner that upholds Unicare Community Health Center's mission to improve the health status and well-being of underserved segments of the population in the communities we serve through the direct provision or coordination of health care, health education, and services The Substance Use Disorder Counselor will help clients understand the nature of substance misuse develop coping strategies, and work toward reducing and/or eliminating use, guided by evidence-based harm reduction strategies.
Duties/Responsibilities:
The following reflects management's definition of essential functions for this job but does not restrict the tasks that may be assigned.
Management may assign or reassign duties and responsibilities to this job at any time with reasonable accommodation.
  • Conduct patient interviews to gather information, assess ASAM level of care and associated needs, determine the appropriate need, and develop a plan based on ASAM criteria.
  • Develop individualized treatment plans based on assessment of results and client needs.
  • Provide individual, group, or family counseling to help clients address their addiction.
  • Monitor client progress and adjust treatment plans as necessary
  • Assist clients in accessing additional resources, such as housing, employment, or medical care, to support their recovery.
  • Educate clients and their families about the effects of substance misuse and the importance of recovery.
  • Provide relapse prevention strategies and support during recovery.
  • Maintain accurate records of client interactions, treatment progress, and outcomes.
  • Maintain accuracy, completeness, and timeliness with SUD records. All SUD documentation must be closed within 48 hours of the encounter to ensure high standards of care and compliance with regulatory requirements.
  • Comply with legal and ethical standards related to confidentiality and patient privacy including 42 CFR in part 2.
  • Participate in the development of patients' individualized care plans, in a timely and thorough manner.
  • Collaborates closely with the Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT) team, including supporting patient adherence and engagement to this care.
  • Coordinates and collaborates with Behavioral Health Providers, Primary Care Providers, Behavioral Health Coordinators and MA's, Case Managers, Substance Use Disorder Counselor, Director of Behavioral Health, Chief Medical Officer, MAT team and other Staff to improve health outcomes and to support patient adherence and engagement to this care.
  • Facilitate referrals to other services and allied agencies as needed.
  • Works closely with Unicare's Psychiatrists and other therapists when needed.
  • Serves as a mandated Child Protective Services (CPS) and Adult/Elder Abuse reporter.
  • Facilitates and participates in chart reviews and audits of behavioral health clinicians.
  • Attends and participates in a variety of internal and external meetings.
  • Performs related duties as assigned.
  • Is engaged and facilitates outreach initiatives.
  • Proactively utilize clinical supervision and/or peer consultation.
  • Productivity expectations are balanced with quality of care and documentation requirements, though direct patient care usually comprises 7 hours/day.

Non-Essential Functions
  • As directed by the Director of Behavioral Health, performs other related and/or necessary tasks to achieve organizational and programmatic goals and objectives.

Professional Requirements
  • Adhere to dress code, appearance is neat and clean.
  • Maintain current license, registrations and/or certifications.
  • Maintain patient confidentiality at all times.
  • Report to work on time and as scheduled.
  • Maintain regulatory requirements, including all state, federal and local regulations.
  • Represent the organization in a positive and professional manner at all times.
  • Comply with all organizational policies and standards regarding ethical business practices.
  • Communicate the mission, ethics and goals of the organization.
  • Participate in performance improvement and continuous quality improvement activities.
  • Must have reliable transportation.

Qualifications
  • One (1) to (2) years' experience required.
  • Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor with one of the California Department of Health Care Services' currently approved certification organizations.
  • Bilingual English/Spanish strongly preferred.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
  • Requires a comprehensive knowledge of substance use disorder in outpatient settings including the most recent evidence-based harm reduction intervention and motivational interviewing techniques.
  • General knowledge of behavioral health counseling skills, including the ability to perform biopsychosocial assessments, crisis prevention, and coping skills development.
  • Knowledge and ability to find resources for patients and the ability to link and refer patients as needed.
  • Applied understanding of the ASAM Levels of Care.
  • General understanding of Medication Assisted Treatment as part of holistic SUD treatment.
  • Excellent people skills, with an ability to partner with a dynamic leadership team.
  • Knowledge of providing culturally competent services to a variety of diverse patients.
  • Possess personal qualities of integrity, credibility, and commitment to corporate mission.
  • Flexible and able to multitask; can work within an ambiguous, fast-moving environment, while also driving toward clarity and solutions; demonstrate resourcefulness in setting priorities.
  • Maintain current knowledge of policies and procedures as they relate to safe work practices.
  • Follow all safety procedures and report unsafe conditions.
  • Ability to work with a diverse population.
  • Willing to work flexible hours, including evening and/or weekends.
  • Must be self-directed and work productively with minimal supervision.
  • Ability to work effectively as a member of an interdisciplinary team
  • Demonstrated proficiency in using Microsoft applications such as Word, Excel, Access, Outlook
  • Knowledge of Electronic Health Records

Physical Requirements and Environmental Conditions
  • Prolonged periods of sitting and working on a computer.
  • Pushing and pulling objects up to 25 lbs.
  • Frequent wrist, hand, and finger dexterity to perform fine motor function.
  • Position requires light to moderate work with 25 lb. maximum weight to lift and carry.
  • Full range of body motion requires twisting body, pushing, pulling, reaching, bending, stooping, and handling objects with hands and/or fingers, listening, talking, and/or hearing, and seeing.
  • Reasonable accommodation will be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the position.

Working Conditions
  • Non-Ionizing Radiation (microwaves)
  • Hazardous Exposure (chemical [E.G. Latex] and infectious)

Work Schedule
  • You will generally be scheduled to work each day Monday through Friday, with starting times each day varying between 8:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. and ending time between 5:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m., as required to meet the operational needs of the company. There will be occasional Saturdays as needed.

You will need to travel to other clinic locations as needed for cross coverage support.
Our Mission
The mission of Unicare is to be a community health care organization that treats everyone with dignity, respect, and cultural sensitivity to help create an environment in which all can prosper.

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