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Substance Abuse Assistant Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The Substance Abuse Counselor assists in developing, organizing, and conducting groups to provide ... May assist with the assignment of cases. * Facilitates psycho-educational and behavior modification ...

SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELOR

Johnson City, TN

$21.75 - $29.50/hr

The Substance Abuse Counselor assists in developing, organizing, and conducting groups to provide ... May assist with the assignment of cases. * Facilitates psycho-educational and behavior modification ...

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Substance Abuse Assistant information

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$10

$67

$125

How much do substance abuse assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of May 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for substance abuse assistant in the United States is $67.68, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.32 and $92.31 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Substance Abuse Assistant, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Substance Abuse Assistant, you typically need a background in psychology, counseling, or social work, along with relevant certifications or training in substance abuse treatment. Familiarity with client intake software, case management systems, and basic documentation tools is often required. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and the ability to maintain confidentiality are essential soft skills for building trust and rapport with clients. These skills ensure effective support for individuals struggling with addiction and contribute to positive treatment outcomes.

What are the most common challenges a Substance Abuse Assistant faces when supporting clients in recovery programs?

Substance Abuse Assistants often encounter challenges such as managing clients’ fluctuating motivation levels, addressing relapses, and navigating emotional or behavioral crises. The role requires patience and strong communication skills to build trust and encourage consistent engagement with treatment plans. Additionally, balancing administrative duties—like maintaining accurate records and coordinating with counselors—while providing direct client support is a frequent part of the job. Working closely with a multidisciplinary team helps address these challenges and ensures comprehensive care for each client.

What are Substance Abuse Assistants?

Substance Abuse Assistants are professionals who support counselors and therapists in helping individuals struggling with drug or alcohol addiction. They assist with client intake, maintain records, lead group activities, and provide encouragement to clients during their recovery process. While they do not typically provide therapy, they play a vital role in daily operations and client support within rehabilitation centers or community programs. Their work helps ensure that clients receive consistent care and guidance as part of their treatment plan.

What is the difference between Substance Abuse Assistant vs Substance Abuse Counselor?

AspectSubstance Abuse AssistantSubstance Abuse Counselor
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; certification often preferredHigh school diploma; state certification or licensure often required; some roles require a master's degree
Work EnvironmentClinics, treatment centers, hospitals, community programsSimilar settings, often with more direct client therapy responsibilities
Employer & Industry UsageUsed by addiction treatment facilities, healthcare providersLicensed professionals working in similar environments, providing therapy and counseling
Common Search & ComparisonOften compared for entry-level roles and support positionsCompared for licensed, client-facing therapy roles

Substance Abuse Assistants typically support treatment teams with administrative tasks and basic client support, requiring less formal education. Substance Abuse Counselors provide direct therapy and require licensure or certification. Both roles work in similar environments, but counselors have more advanced responsibilities and credentials.

More about Substance Abuse Assistant jobs
What cities are hiring for Substance Abuse Assistant jobs? Cities with the most Substance Abuse Assistant job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Substance Abuse jobs? The most popular types of Substance Abuse jobs are:
What states have the most Substance Abuse Assistant jobs? States with the most job openings for Substance Abuse Assistant jobs include:
Infographic showing various Substance Abuse Assistant job openings in the United States as of May 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 69% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 8% Temporary, 1% Contract, and 1% Summer. Highlights an 74% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 25% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $140,766 per year, or $67.7 per hour.

Substance Abuse Counselor

Our Substance Abuse Facility

Princeton Junction, NJ • On-site

$23.50 - $31.50/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, PTO

Posted 18 days ago


Job description

Salary: 50,000

Wellness Recovery Center is hiring! WRC is an Outpatient Substance Abuse Treatment Center, new to Mercer County! We are Located in West Windsor, NJ, the facility will offer traditional & holistic methods for treating substance abuse in a Partial Hospitalization (PHP) and Intensive Outpatient (IOP) setting. Please view our website to see our facility -

https://wellnessrecoverynj.com/

WRC is looking to hire a Primary Therapist to join the clinical team!The Therapist is responsible for completing the Biopsychosocial assessment, developing treatment plans, conducting process groups and individual sessions with facility clients. The Therapist will also get the benefit of working side by side with our Clinical Director.

Responsibilities

  • Knowledge of current legal standards pertaining to professional practice, reporting requirements, professional boundaries, and related issues.
  • Knowledge of the philosophy and approach of the 12-step model of recovery (AA, CA, NA, Alanon).
  • Oversee the daily treatment experience of each of clients.
  • Maintain assigned documentation as required within the timelines required.
  • Conduct assessments of clients at the time of admission and re-assessments as required and if needed.
  • Conduct mental status examinations.
  • Provide appropriate treatment recommendations based on a review of the clients history, signs, and symptoms.
  • Provide individual, couple/family, and group psychotherapy as needed.

Qualifications

  • Fully understands and maintains policies regarding professional ethics, including appropriate boundaries and patient confidentiality.
  • Master or Doctorate degree in psychology, social work, counseling or social science. Licensed or registered in New Jerseys as an LMFT, LCSW, AMFT, ACSW; or LCADC by the Board of Psychology as a Licensed Psychologist or Psychological Assistant.
  • Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Possess valid drivers license.
  • CPR/First Aid certification required, obtained upon employment and maintained current thereafter.
  • Criminal background clearance required.
  • Health screen, proof of MMR vaccination or antibodies, negative TB test results.

***If you feel like you are a qualified candidate for this position please apply now as we have already started the interviews for this position and we are looking for the right fit!

Benefits:

  • Dental insurance
  • Flexible schedule
  • Health insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid time off
  • Professional development assistance
  • Vision insurance

Schedule:

  • 8 hour shift
  • Day shift
  • Monday to Friday

    Work Location: In person