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Program Director Substance Abuse Jobs in Iowa (NOW HIRING)

CADAC

Iowa City, IA · On-site

$55K - $75K/yr

CADAC / Substance Use Disorder Counselor Facility: Renewal Falls Recovery Center Location: Iowa ... As a CADAC, you will provide direct counseling services, support individualized treatment planning ...

CADAC

Cedar Falls, IA · On-site

$20.75 - $28/hr

CADAC / Substance Use Disorder Counselor Facility: Renewal Falls Recovery Center Location: Cedar ... As a CADAC, you will provide direct counseling services, support individualized treatment planning ...

Showing results 41-60

Program Director Substance Abuse information

See Iowa salary details

$37.6K

$88.1K

$136.7K

How much do program director substance abuse jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average yearly pay for program director substance abuse in Iowa is $88,142.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $51,700.00 and $111,800.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a program director substance abuse?

A Program Director for Substance Abuse oversees the planning, implementation, and management of substance abuse treatment programs. They ensure compliance with regulations, manage staff, develop policies, and coordinate resources to support individuals in recovery. Their role includes budgeting, performance evaluation, and improving program effectiveness. They often work in rehabilitation centers, healthcare facilities, or community organizations to provide comprehensive addiction treatment services.

What are some common challenges faced by program directors in substance abuse treatment settings?

Program Directors in substance abuse treatment often face challenges balancing regulatory compliance, managing diverse teams, and ensuring high-quality client care. They may encounter resource limitations, staff burnout, or evolving treatment protocols that require ongoing adaptation and problem-solving. Collaborating effectively with clinical staff, administrative personnel, external agencies, and clients’ families is essential to address complex needs and support recovery. Staying organized and maintaining a client-centered focus helps directors navigate these challenges and drive program success.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a program director substance abuse?

To thrive as a Program Director Substance Abuse, you need a solid background in behavioral health, team leadership, program management, and typically a master's degree in counseling, social work, psychology, or a related field. Familiarity with electronic health record systems, state licensure (such as LCSW, LPC, or CADC), and regulatory compliance tools is often required. Strong communication, problem-solving, and motivational skills set standout directors apart by aiding staff development and client engagement. These qualifications ensure effective oversight of treatment programs, regulatory compliance, and positive client outcomes in a complex healthcare environment.

What are popular job titles related to Program Director Substance Abuse jobs in Iowa?

For Program Director Substance Abuse jobs in Iowa, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Program Director Substance Abuse jobs in Iowa look for?

The top searched job categories for Program Director Substance Abuse jobs in Iowa are:

Substance Use Counselor - CADC

Acadia Healthcare

Council Bluffs, IA • On-site

$20.75 - $28/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Acadia Healthcare rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 190 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

701st of 887 rated healthcare providers


Job description

Overview
Outpatient MAT Opioid Treatment Program
Seeking: Substance Use Counselor - CADC
Full Time Hours:
  • 5:30 AM - 12:00 PM: Monday - Friday

Our Benefits:
  • Semi-Annual Bonus Program
  • Medical, Dental, and Vision insurance
  • Competitive 401(k) plan
  • Paid vacation and sick time
  • Employer-paid clinical supervision (free to employees)
  • Free and unlimited access to 500+ accredited Continuing Education Units (CEUs)
  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offering continued support to employee lifestyle and well-being
  • Early morning hours offering a great work/life balance
  • Opportunity for growth that is second to none in the industry

Our Team:
Council Bluffs Comprehensive Treatment Center (CTC), located in Council Bluffs,IA, is part of Acadia Healthcare's Comprehensive Treatment Centers, the leading provider of medication-assisted treatment in the nation. Our counseling team provides compassionate, high-quality counseling and therapy to patients that are seeking recovery from Opioid Use Disorder.
Job Responsibilities:
  • Provide high quality, compassionate guidance in both individual and group counseling sessions.
  • Plan, oversee, facilitate and document patient's recovery.
  • Co-facilitate assigned group or family sessions as needed.
  • Ensure all documentation regarding patient care, treatment, and incidents is completed timely and in a clear, concise manner.
  • Prepare individual treatment plans for each assigned patient.
  • Initial assessments as well as follow up assessments.
  • Evaluate patient needs and determine if referrals to other programs or facilities are needed.
  • May plan for aftercare for assigned patients.
  • Provide crisis intervention to patients, as needed.
  • Provide case management duties for patients, ensuring individualized quality care as needed.
  • Act as a liaison between referral sources and patients, as needed.

Eligible positions may qualify for student loan forgiveness through HRSA, depending on clinic site eligibility. Check your eligibilty here: HRSA Eligibility
Qualifications
Required Education, Skills and Qualifications:
  • Minimum of an Associate's Degree in social or health services field required;
  • Prefer Bachelor's or Master's degree in social or health services field;
  • Degree must be from an accredited college or university.
  • Previous experience in addiction recovery or behavioral health settings, such as outpatient, residential, or correctional facilities.
  • Familiarity with Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT), including methadone, buprenorphine, and naltrexone.
  • Experience conducting individual and group counseling sessions focused on substance use recovery.
  • Knowledge of evidence-based practices, such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), and relapse prevention techniques.
  • Documentation experience, including maintaining clinical notes, treatment plans, and progress updates in accordance with state and federal guidelines.
  • Familiarity with state regulatory standards (e.g., 42 CFR Part 2, HIPAA, Joint Commission standards).
  • Experience collaborating in a multidisciplinary team with medical staff, case managers, and peer support specialists.

Licenses/Certifications:
  • Required: CADC or tCADC attained within 6-months of employment
  • Must be eligible to sit for the CADC exam to obtain tCADC (temporary certification)

We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants for employment regardless of an individual's characteristics protected by applicable state, federal and local laws.
#LI-BS1
#LI-CTC

What Acadia Healthcare employees say

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About Acadia Healthcare

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Acadia Healthcare is a leading provider in the healthcare and hospital industry, based in Franklin, Tennessee, United States. The company is recognised for its commitment to creating a behavioural health network that provides accessible, high-quality treatment options for individuals suffering from mental health issues, addiction, eating disorders, and PTSD. Acadia Healthcare was founded in 2005, with the mission to create a world-class organization that sets the standard of excellence in the treatment of specialty behavioural health and addiction disorders.

Industry

Hospitals

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Franklin, TN, US

Year founded

2005

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