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Master Of Science In Addiction Counseling Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Addiction Counselor

Pittsburgh, PA · On-site

$35K - $42K/yr

Master's, bachelor's degree in counseling, Social Work, Psychology, or a related mental health ... Strong knowledge of behavioral health principles and psychotherapy techniques. Preferred ...

Licensed Addiction Counselor

Mcpherson, KS · On-site

$41K - $54K/yr

Bachelor's degree in Addiction Counseling or a related field required * Will consider a Kansas ... Minimum of one (1) year of experience in behavioral health, clinical counseling, or case management

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Master Of Science In Addiction Counseling information

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$37K

$53K

$70.5K

How much do master of science in addiction counseling jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for master of science in addiction counseling in the United States is $52,998.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $46,000.00 and $56,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What types of organizations typically hire professionals with a Master of Science in Addiction Counseling, and how does the work environment differ across these settings?

Professionals with a Master of Science in Addiction Counseling can find employment in diverse settings such as hospitals, outpatient clinics, residential treatment facilities, community health centers, and private practices. Each environment offers unique challenges: for example, residential facilities may require shift work and managing clients in crisis, while outpatient clinics often follow more regular hours and emphasize ongoing therapy. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams—including physicians, social workers, and case managers—is common, ensuring holistic client support. The work environment can also influence caseloads, administrative responsibilities, and opportunities for professional development.

What degree is best for addiction counseling?

A Master of Science in Addiction Counseling is considered the most relevant degree for addiction counseling roles, providing specialized training in addiction treatment, counseling techniques, and related skills. Many states also require certification or licensure, which often necessitates completing a relevant degree and supervised clinical hours.

What is the highest paid addiction counselor?

The highest paid addiction counselors are often those with advanced degrees, extensive experience, and specialized certifications, working in private practice or in high-demand healthcare settings. Salaries can reach over $70,000 annually, with some senior or specialized counselors earning higher compensation based on location and employer.

What is a Master of Science in Addiction Counseling?

A Master of Science in Addiction Counseling is a graduate degree program designed to prepare students for careers helping individuals and families affected by substance use disorders and other addictive behaviors. The program typically includes coursework in counseling theories, assessment, treatment planning, and ethical practices, as well as supervised clinical experience. Graduates are equipped to pursue licensure as addiction counselors and work in various settings, such as rehabilitation centers, hospitals, and private practices. The degree also provides a foundation for further specialization or doctoral study in the field.

What can you do with a master's degree in addiction counseling?

A master's degree in addiction counseling qualifies individuals to work as licensed addiction counselors, providing treatment and support to individuals with substance use disorders. Graduates can work in settings such as clinics, hospitals, or community agencies, often requiring certification or licensure to practice independently. The degree also prepares professionals for roles involving case management, counseling, and relapse prevention strategies.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Master of Science in Addiction Counseling, and why are they important?

To thrive as an addiction counselor with a Master of Science in Addiction Counseling, you need advanced knowledge of counseling theories, substance use disorders, assessment techniques, and typically a relevant master's degree and state licensure or certification. Familiarity with electronic health records, diagnostic tools like the DSM-5, and motivational interviewing techniques is crucial. Outstanding interpersonal communication, cultural competence, and emotional resilience set top professionals apart in this field. These competencies ensure effective treatment planning, support client recovery, and uphold ethical standards in diverse clinical environments.

What can someone with a master's in counseling do?

A person with a master's in addiction counseling can work as a licensed addiction counselor, providing therapy and support to individuals with substance use disorders. They may also work in healthcare settings, community agencies, or private practice, often requiring certification or licensure to practice independently.
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Addiction Counselor

Addiction Counselor

Tadiso Incorporated

Pittsburgh, PA • On-site

$35K - $42K/yr

Full-time

Posted 21 days ago


Job description

About Company:

TADISO, INCORPORATED

HISTORICAL AND GENERAL INFORMATION

58 YEARS (1968 – 2026)

The program was conceived and implemented by the African American citizens of Manchester responding to the urgent need and desire to save, and hopefully, to better their community.

Tadiso started in August 1968 with two physicians, Dr. Charles Burk and Marshall Johnson and two staff members Bobby Wiles and Ronnie Barfield, volunteering their services until funds were secured from the State of Pennsylvania, which regards drug addiction as a mental health problem. The synthetic narcotic methadone did not become an official part of the program until June 1969.

Two hospitals, Allegheny General and St. John’s General, offered 14 beds to the center’s patients. The youngest person was a 14-year old with a three-year habit behind him. [EBONY Magazine, November 1970, Johnson Publication – “The Methadone Method”]

About the Role:

The Addiction Counselor plays a critical role in supporting individuals struggling with substance use disorders by providing comprehensive mental health and behavioral health services. This position focuses on guiding clients through the recovery process using evidence-based therapeutic techniques, including individual and group therapy sessions. The counselor collaborates with multidisciplinary teams to develop and implement personalized treatment and discharge plans that promote sustained recovery and relapse prevention. Crisis intervention is a key component, requiring the counselor to respond effectively to clients in acute distress. Ultimately, the role aims to empower clients to achieve long-term sobriety and improved mental health through compassionate, client-centered care.

Minimum Qualifications:

  • Master’s, bachelor's degree in counseling, Social Work, Psychology, or a related mental health field.
  • Demonstrated experience in mental health counseling and addiction recovery services.
  • Proficiency in crisis intervention and discharge planning.
  • Strong knowledge of behavioral health principles and psychotherapy techniques.

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Certification in addiction counseling (e.g., Certified Addiction Counselor or equivalent).
  • Experience facilitating group therapy sessions specifically for substance use disorders.
  • Training in motivational interviewing and other evidence-based addiction treatment modalities.
  • Familiarity with electronic health record (EHR) systems used in behavioral health settings.
  • Bilingual abilities or experience working with diverse populations.

Responsibilities:

  • Conduct thorough assessments to evaluate clients' mental health and addiction-related needs.
  • Develop and implement individualized treatment plans incorporating psychotherapy and motivational interviewing techniques.
  • Facilitate group therapy sessions to foster peer support and enhance recovery outcomes.
  • Provide crisis intervention and support during acute episodes to ensure client safety and stability.
  • Collaborate with healthcare professionals to coordinate care and create effective discharge plans.
  • Maintain detailed documentation of client progress, treatment plans, and interventions.
  • Educate clients and their families about addiction, recovery processes, and available resources.
  • Stay current with best practices and emerging trends in addiction counseling and behavioral health.

Skills:

The required skills such as mental health counseling, psychotherapy, and behavioral health are applied daily to assess client needs and deliver tailored therapeutic interventions. Motivational interviewing techniques are utilized to enhance client engagement and foster intrinsic motivation for change. Crisis intervention skills are critical for managing emergencies and ensuring client safety during high-risk situations. Group therapy facilitation promotes peer support and shared learning among clients, which is essential for recovery. Preferred skills like certification in addiction counseling and experience with diverse populations further enhance the counselor’s ability to provide culturally competent and effective care.