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Remote Addiction Counselor Jobs in California (NOW HIRING)

Provide intake, assessment, treatment planning, group and individual counseling to clients in the Substance Use Disorders/Addiction program * Provide after-care plan for clients returning to the ...

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Remote Addiction Counselor information

See California salary details

$32.1K

$53.5K

$70.1K

How much do remote addiction counselor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 31, 2026, the average yearly pay for remote addiction counselor in California is $53,516.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $44,900.00 and $60,200.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a remote addiction counselor?

A remote addiction counselor is a trained professional who provides support, guidance, and therapy to individuals struggling with substance use disorders or addictive behaviors through virtual platforms such as video calls, phone calls, or online chat. These counselors help clients develop coping strategies, set recovery goals, and address underlying issues related to addiction, all while working remotely. This approach increases access to care, especially for those who may have barriers to attending in-person sessions.

How does a remote addiction counselor build rapport and trust with clients in a virtual setting?

Building rapport and trust remotely requires intentional communication and the use of secure, user-friendly technology. Remote Addiction Counselors often rely on video calls to foster face-to-face connection, active listening, and empathy, just as they would in person. Consistently maintaining confidentiality, creating a safe digital space, and following up regularly with clients are essential practices. Counselors also frequently collaborate with multidisciplinary teams virtually to provide comprehensive support, ensuring clients feel connected and supported throughout their recovery journey.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a remote addiction counselor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Remote Addiction Counselor, you need a background in psychology, counseling, or social work, along with relevant licensure such as LADC, CADC, or LPC. Familiarity with telehealth platforms, secure video conferencing tools, and electronic health record (EHR) systems is typically required. Strong communication, empathy, and the ability to build rapport virtually are standout soft skills for this role. These competencies ensure effective client support, confidentiality, and successful treatment outcomes in a remote setting.

What is the difference between Remote Addiction Counselor vs Remote Substance Abuse Therapist?

AspectRemote Addiction CounselorRemote Substance Abuse Therapist
CredentialsCertification in addiction counseling (e.g., CADC, CCADC)Licensed therapist with specialization in substance abuse (e.g., LCSW, LPC with addiction focus)
Work EnvironmentOnline counseling platforms, telehealth servicesTelehealth, private practices, clinics
Employer & IndustryRehab centers, outpatient clinics, telehealth companiesHealthcare providers, mental health clinics, private practices
Search & Comparison IntentYesYes

Remote Addiction Counselors and Remote Substance Abuse Therapists both work in telehealth settings helping clients overcome substance issues. While credentials may overlap, addiction counselors often hold specific certifications like CADC, whereas therapists are typically licensed mental health professionals with addiction specialization. Both roles are vital in the addiction treatment industry and are frequently searched for by those seeking remote mental health support for substance abuse.

What are the most commonly searched types of Addiction Counselor jobs in California?

The most popular types of Addiction Counselor jobs in California are:

What job categories do people searching Remote Addiction Counselor jobs in California look for?

The top searched job categories for Remote Addiction Counselor jobs in California are:

What cities in California are hiring for Remote Addiction Counselor jobs?

Cities in California with the most Remote Addiction Counselor job openings:

Infographic showing various Remote Addiction Counselor job openings in California as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 79% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 100% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,516 per year, or $25.7 per hour.

PART TIME- Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor - Remote

Recover Medical Group

Escondido, CA โ€ข On-site, Remote

$45 - $75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 16 days ago


Job description

About the company
Recover is working to make addiction treatment and mental healthcare more effective, accessible, and affordable. We work with governments to use medicine to improve outcomes for people who need care.
Our program is an outpatient and intensive outpatient treatment program for people with substance use and mental challenges. We use a harm reduction approach to treatment, and are focused on serving marginalized and underserved communities. We are a small team growing quickly, and looking for people to grow with us.
Our team includes people from Yale Law, UCLA School of Medicine, Harvard Medical School, and White House alums.
The opportunity
As a counselor for Recover, you'll work directly with patients to treat a variety of substance use disorders and co-occurring mental health conditions. The majority of your time will be spent providing counseling to patients in one-on-one, group, and family settings. You will be expected to develop relationships with your patients and help guide them through their recovery journey. You will also collaborate regularly with the rest of the treatment team, including the medical director, physicians, nurse practitioners, and case managers, to develop and implement comprehensive treatment plans for patients. This position is best suited for someone comfortable working independently, takes ownership of patient care, builds rapport, and works well in a collaborative team environment.
This role is part-time contract employee. You will report to Recover's Clinical Supervisor. Salary is commensurate with experience and qualifications. Role is less than 30 hours/week across 5 days.
Requirements
Need to have:
  • CAADC / LAADC certification valid in California from one of the three state-recognized certifying organizations
  • OR be an AMF / ASW / APCC in need of supervised practice hours
  • 2+ years of experience in mental health and/or substance use treatment

Nice to have:
  • Availability for Evening hours
  • Experience treating addiction
  • Lived experience with substance use
  • Fluent in Spanish

Benefits
  • Training & Development
  • Work From Home
  • Salary Range: $45-75 per hour