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Substance Abuse Assistant Jobs in Indiana (NOW HIRING)

Substance Abuse Counselor

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$21.25 - $28.75/hr

Position will collaborate with the Treatment Team to formulate the Master Treatment Plan and assist ... Uses substance abuse and co-occurring therapeutic interventions and de-escalation techniques to ...

Substance abuse counselor conducts group sessions and individual sessions to assist with crisis management and coping strategies. Additionally, Substance abuse counselor will evaluate patients ...

Clinical Therapist PRN

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$56K - $76K/yr

We put behavioral health front and center, providing assistance to people with substance abuse ... and assist in coordinating discharge planning. The Clinician has primary responsibility for ...

Clinical Therapist PRN

Indianapolis, IN · On-site

$56K - $76K/yr

We put behavioral health front and center, providing assistance to people with substance abuse ... and assist in coordinating discharge planning. The Clinician has primary responsibility for ...

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Substance Abuse Assistant information

See Indiana salary details

$10

$64

$119

How much do substance abuse assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 17, 2026, the average hourly pay for substance abuse assistant in Indiana is $64.40, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.21 and $87.84 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a substance abuse assistant?

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 are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a substance abuse assistant?

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 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.

How much do substance abuse assistants make?

Substance abuse assistants typically earn a median annual salary of around $30,000 to $40,000, depending on experience, location, and work setting. Entry-level positions may start lower, while those with certifications or specialized skills can earn higher wages. Salaries often increase with additional training and responsibilities in treatment facilities or healthcare environments.

What do you need to become a substance abuse assistant?

To become a substance abuse assistant, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, relevant training or certification in substance abuse counseling, and sometimes a valid driver's license. Some positions may require prior experience working with individuals with substance use issues or in healthcare settings.

What are the most commonly searched types of Substance Abuse jobs in Indiana?

The most popular types of Substance Abuse jobs in Indiana are:

What cities in Indiana are hiring for Substance Abuse Assistant jobs?

Cities in Indiana with the most Substance Abuse Assistant job openings:

Infographic showing various Substance Abuse Assistant job openings in Indiana as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 83% Full Time, 13% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $133,947 per year, or $64.4 per hour.

$21.25 - $28.75/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 5 days ago


Advanced Recovery Systems rating

6.9

Company rating: 6.9 out of 10

Based on 7 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz


Job description

Description
The Recovery Village - Indianapolis is Hiring
Come Join Our Team! Saving Lives is What We Do!
We're building a top-tier clinical team of Substance Abuse Counselors who are passionate about supporting individuals on their journey to recovery.
️ Schedules
Preferred candidates are available to work Friday- Monday
  • Fri- Mon | 8:30 AM - 6:30 PM

Advanced Recovery Systems is an integrated behavioral healthcare management company dedicated to the treatment of addiction, substance abuse, and mental health issues. We put behavioral health front and center, providing assistance to people with substance abuse issues, addictions and mental health concerns.
With facilities in various regions of the U.S., we have been furthering this mission since our inception, applying our advanced approach to patient care.
Every facility in the Advanced Recovery Systems network strives to provide the highest quality of care, using evidence-based therapeutic models that really work. Our goal is to help men and women live healthy, happy lives without the burden of substance abuse or mental illness.
The Substance Abuse Counselor is responsible for performing patient care activities as directed by the Clinical Director. The primary duties include group therapy by providing comprehensives group therapy, creating evidence based group curriculum, developing group curriculum, participating in treatment plans to ensure service delivery. Position will collaborate with the Treatment Team to formulate the Master Treatment Plan and assist in coordinating discharge planning.
CORE JOB DUTIES:
  • Develops and provides daily group therapy to assigned patients following substance abuse and co-occurring program curriculum provided by Clinical Director.
  • Assists in ensuring group attendance/compliance by providing engaging and meaningful group content.
  • Uses substance abuse and co-occurring therapeutic interventions and de-escalation techniques to assist patients with accomplishing all treatment plans goals and objectives and successfully complete treatment.
  • Assesses patient for substance use disorders, risk to self or others and co-occurring mental health disorders.
  • Provides support for aftercare planning in collaboration with multidisciplinary team.
  • Demonstrates sufficient comprehension of Substance Use Disorders and Co-Occurring Mental Health Disorders.
  • Consistently identifies areas for improvement within the department by studying data and developing, implementing, and documenting plans for improvement and outcomes.

OTHER REQUIRED TASKS:
  • Maintains positive relationships with all staff.
  • Participates in multidisciplinary treatment plan reviews.
  • Maintains healthy boundaries with patients and staff.
  • Asks for and accepts feedback from supervisors.
  • Provides a safe and therapeutic environment to all staff and patients.
  • Communicates significant patient developments to supervisor.
  • Participates in Quality Improvement activities and contributes to the success of the organization.
  • Pursues professional development through participation in education and training programs.
  • Contributes positively to the morale of other staff members.
  • Complete all required documentation as needed, ensuring compliance with all company policies and procedures, state regulations, Joint Commission standards and Medical Needs Criteria. This includes the following documents:
    - Comprehensive Problem List
    - Integrated Master Treatment Plan and Updates
    - Group therapy session notes
    - Discharge Summary
  • Other duties as assigned.

Requirements
EDUCATION:
  • Bachelor's or Master's Degree in Behavioral Health Field preferred.
  • High School Diploma required.

EXPERIENCE:
  • Minimum one (1) year of work experience in behavioral health field preferred.

LICENSURE/CERTIFICATION DESIRED:
  • State SUD certification required if education is equivalent to High School or Bachelor's level.
  • CPR-AED and First Aid certification required.

KNOWLEDGE AND TRAINING REQUIRED:
  • Demonstrates Proficiency in Communication & Written skills.
  • Knowledge of State & Federal Statutes Regarding Patient Confidentiality laws.
  • Knowledge of licensing and accreditation standards.
  • Understanding addiction placement, continuing care, and discharge criteria, including American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) criteria.

Advanced Recovery Systems, a national integrated behavior healthcare management company dedicated to the treatment of addiction, substance abuse, and mental health issues.
The Company complies with state and federal nondiscrimination laws and policies that prohibit discrimination based on age, color, disability, national origin, race, religion, or sex. It is unlawful to retaliate against individuals or groups based on the basis of their participation in a complaint of discrimination or on the basis of their opposition to discriminatory practices/EEO.
We are proud to be a drug-free workplace.
Benefits
We offer great benefits including 401(k), paid time off plan, medical, dental, vision, and much more.

What Advanced Recovery Systems employees say

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Benefits

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