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Substance Abuse Assistant information

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$10

$66

$124

How much do substance abuse assistant jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for substance abuse assistant in Rochester, NY is $66.77, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $23.03 and $91.06 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 experience or training in substance abuse counseling, and may be required to obtain certification or licensure as specified by state regulations. Strong communication skills and knowledge of addiction treatment are also important for the role.

What are the most commonly searched types of Substance Abuse jobs in Rochester, NY?

The most popular types of Substance Abuse jobs in Rochester, NY are:

What cities near Rochester, NY are hiring for Substance Abuse Assistant jobs?

Cities near Rochester, NY with the most Substance Abuse Assistant job openings:

Substance Abuse Assistant jobs near you
Infographic showing various Substance Abuse Assistant job openings in Rochester, NY as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $138,889 per year, or $66.8 per hour.

Substance Abuse Counselor

The Salvation Army, ARC

Rochester, NY • On-site

$19.50 - $21/hr

Part-time

Posted 13 days ago

Salvation Army rating

6.0

Company rating: 6.0 out of 10

Based on 364 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

591st of 773 rated non-profit organizations

Job description

Title: Counselor
Reports To: Administrator(s)
Status: Non-exempt
Function:
The Counselor will counsel beneficiaries enrolled in the ARC program towards life transformation and change. They will work with the Center program staff to provide a caring, respectful, safe atmosphere to those seeking life transformation.
Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Is aware of and in agreement with The Salvation Army’s Christian spiritual approach to rehabilitation. Desires to be part of a team that provides a caring, respectful, safe atmosphere to those seeking life transformation through the ARC program.
  • Work cooperatively with all ARC staff, beneficiaries, and outside agencies.
  • Record statistical information specific to your area of responsibility. Ensure that all statistical data is submitted to the Administrator(s) (or designate) within three business days following the end of the month. Daily/weekly reporting is to be done on a daily basis.
  • Carry an individual caseload of approximately 20-25 individuals who are seen for scheduled appointments on a bi-weekly basis and for crisis counseling as needed. Maintain written documentation of all counseling sessions in both Bits-pro and in the hard file of the beneficiary. This must be completed within 24 hours of the session.
  • Responsible for maintaining organized beneficiary files for those on your assigned caseload. This includes keeping the files up to date with all relevant forms and paperwork, including Release of Information forms, work therapy evaluations, counseling notes (within 24 hours of the session and in both Bitspro and the hard file, other services provided, etc.
  • Conduct 2-4 counseling, education, and/or Bible/prayer groups per week, as scheduled.
  • Operate compliance screening for prohibited substances equipment as required.
  • Attend and participate in weekly staff meetings and all staff meetings assigned by Administrator(s), or their designate. Present case information as requested, including documentation of phase progress.
  • Process a quality intake system to interview, assess, and process necessary paperwork for applicants to the ARC program, striving to maintain a full capacity. Provide a positive, appealing, and uplifting first impression of the ARC program. Assist potential applicants with the completion of all required forms. Provide applicants who are not appropriate for admission with resources of other suitable services.
  • Attend retreats, conferences, and other Salvation Army events as scheduled and assigned to comply with Professional Development Plan and continuing education (which may include weekend and/or evening time).

Qualifications:
  • Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in rehabilitation counseling, pastoral counseling or a related field is preferred.
  • A minimum of one year of experience in the field of addiction rehabilitation is preferred.
  • Must have a working knowledge of issues such as spiritual formation, substance abuse, homelessness, displacement, etc.
  • Strong communication skills.
  • Flexibility in work schedule to include evenings and occasional weekend time.

Physical Requirements:
  • Sitting: Over 2/3 of the time
  • Lifting: Must be able to lift 10 pounds
  • Push/Pull Using Machinery: No
  • Standing: Under 1/3 of the time
  • Walking: Under 1/3 of the time
  • Reaching: Under 1/3 of the time
  • Climbing: Under 1/3 of the time
  • Stooping: Under 1/3 of the time

Statement of Confidentiality:
The Counselor occupies a position of trust and is expected to maintain confidentiality and exhibit loyalty to The Salvation Army and the staff of the Adult Rehabilitation Centers in all job-related matters.
Mission Statement:
The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.
Employment at 745 West Ave. Rochester NY 14611 

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About Salvation Army

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an evangelical part of the universal Christian Church. Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God. Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in His name without discrimination.

Industry

Non-profits, retail, amusement, gambling, and recreation and religious organizations

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alexandria, VA, US

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