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Substance Abuse Associate Jobs in Rio Rancho, NM

The GEO Group

SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELOR

Los Lunas, NM

$31.50/hr

Associate degree in a behavioral science field such as Psychology, Sociology or Human Relations. * Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor (LADAC) certified OR * Licensed Substance Abuse Associate ...

The GEO Group

SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELOR

Los Lunas, NM

$31.50/hr

Associate degree in a behavioral science field such as Psychology, Sociology or Human Relations. * Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor (LADAC) certified OR * Licensed Substance Abuse Associate ...

The GEO Group

SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELOR

Los Lunas, NM · On-site

$31.50/hr

Associate degree in a behavioral science field such as Psychology, Sociology or Human Relations. * Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor (LADAC) certified OR * Licensed Substance Abuse Associate ...

The GEO Group

SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELOR

Los Lunas, NM · On-site

$31.50/hr

Associate degree in a behavioral science field such as Psychology, Sociology or Human Relations. * Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor (LADAC) certified OR * Licensed Substance Abuse Associate ...

The GEO Group

SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELOR

Los Lunas, NM · On-site

$31.50/hr

Associate degree in a behavioral science field such as Psychology, Sociology or Human Relations. * Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor (LADAC) certified OR * Licensed Substance Abuse Associate ...

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Substance Abuse Associate information

See Rio Rancho, NM salary details

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How much do substance abuse associate jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average hourly pay for substance abuse associate in Rio Rancho, NM is $15.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $13.56 and $17.16 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectSubstance Abuse AssociateSubstance Abuse Counselor
Required CredentialsHigh school diploma or equivalent; some states require certification or trainingHigh school diploma or equivalent; state certification or licensure often required
Work EnvironmentClinics, treatment centers, hospitals, outpatient facilitiesSimilar settings, including outpatient and inpatient facilities
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in healthcare and addiction treatment settings, often as entry-level staffLicensed professionals providing therapy and counseling services
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding entry-level roles in substance abuse treatmentSeeking licensed professionals for counseling services

Substance Abuse Associates typically perform supportive roles under supervision, focusing on client monitoring and assistance. Substance Abuse Counselors are licensed professionals providing therapy and treatment plans. Both roles are vital in addiction treatment but differ mainly in certification requirements and scope of practice.

What can I do in the substance abuse associate field with an associate's degree?

A substance abuse associate with an associate's degree can work as a substance abuse counselor or technician, assisting clients with treatment plans and providing support under supervision. This role often involves documenting progress, participating in group sessions, and may require certification or licensing depending on the state or organization.

What is a substance abuse associate?

Substance Abuse Associates are professionals who assist individuals struggling with drug or alcohol addiction. They provide support through counseling, education, and connecting clients with resources such as treatment programs or support groups. These associates often work under the supervision of licensed counselors and may help with intake assessments, documentation, and relapse prevention planning. Their goal is to help clients achieve and maintain sobriety while supporting their overall well-being.

What are common challenges substance abuse associates face when working with clients, and how can they manage them?

Substance Abuse Associates often encounter challenges such as client relapse, resistance to treatment, and managing complex emotional or behavioral issues. Effectively managing these challenges involves building strong rapport with clients, employing evidence-based motivational interviewing techniques, and working closely with a multidisciplinary team to tailor treatment plans. Ongoing supervision, professional development, and self-care practices are also essential for associates to maintain resilience and provide the best support for their clients.

What do you need to become a Substance Abuse Associate?

To become a Substance Abuse Associate, candidates typically need a high school diploma or equivalent, along with relevant training or certification in substance abuse counseling or related fields. Some positions may require a bachelor's degree in social work, psychology, or a related area, and familiarity with state-specific licensing or certification requirements is important.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a substance abuse associate, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Substance Abuse Associate, you need a background in psychology, counseling, or social work, often supported by a relevant degree and state certification or licensure. Familiarity with case management software, treatment planning systems, and documentation protocols is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and effective communication are vital for building trust and supporting clients through recovery. These skills and qualifications are essential for delivering effective care, maintaining compliance, and fostering positive client outcomes.
What job categories do people searching Substance Abuse Associate jobs in Rio Rancho, NM look for? The top searched job categories for Substance Abuse Associate jobs in Rio Rancho, NM are:
Substance Abuse Associate jobs near you

SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELOR

The GEO Group

Los Lunas, NM

$31.50/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 29 days ago

The GEO Group rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 53 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

11th of 42 rated prisons

Job description

Overview

Are you looking for a career you can feel good about? We hire only those that strive to do their best. By joining our family, you'll receive the honor and recognition that comes with working for the industry's global leader in evidenced based rehabilitation.

Who We Are:

GEO provides complementary, turnkey solutions for numerous government partners worldwide across a spectrum of diversified correctional and community reentry services. From the development of state-of-the-art facilities and the provision of management services and evidence-based rehabilitation to the post-release reintegration and supervision of individuals in the community, GEO offers fully diversified, cost-effective services that deliver enhanced quality and improved outcomes.

Why Work for GEO:

  • We believe that work is more than a place you go to every day. It is about being inspired and motivated to achieve extraordinary things.
  • Employee benefits play an important role in making The GEO Group a great place to work. At GEO, we believe in the three pillars of employee wellbeing: physical, emotional, and financial. With comprehensive benefits and competitive wages, we trust that you will find all the resources you need here to be successful.

Responsibilities

Summary
The Substance Abuse Counselor assists in developing, organizing, and conducting programs to provide education for conditions and problems relating to drug and alcohol abuse. The Substance Abuse Counselor conducts or assists in conducting individual or group counseling sessions and programs.

Primary Duties and Responsibilities

  • The Substance Abuse Counselor provides relevant substance abuse information for class curriculum
  • Facilitates and co-facilitates didactic educational presentations, group counseling, and individual counseling sessions.
  • The Substance Abuse Counselor selects and recommends new instructional materials and programs for use in the substance abuse program.
  • Maintains knowledge of new developments in the field of substance abuse.
  • The Substance Abuse Counselor maintains a collegian relationship with other substance abuse professionals, programs, and associations.
  • Completes required testing, assessment, and psychosocial history on incoming residents as required.
  • The Substance Abuse Counselor participates in related training for substance abuse.
  • Performs other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

Minimum Requirements

  • Associate degree in a behavioral science field such as Psychology, Sociology or Human Relations.
  • Licensed Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselor (LADAC) certified OR
  • Licensed Substance Abuse Associate certification (LSAA) is required, subject to approval.
    • A waiver can be granted if the individual is currently working on acquiring the certification.
  • Preference given to experience within a correctional setting.
  • Working knowledge of the Twelve Step Program of Alcoholics Anonymous and Narcotics Anonymous.
  • Ability to interact in a professional manner in both individual and group counseling settings.
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work with a team of professionals and have the ability to implement team strategy approaches to work assignments.
  • Ability to work with computers and the necessary software typically used by the department.

GEO Reentry Services LLC.

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