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Substance Abuse Counselor Internship Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Clarvida

Substance Abuse Counselor

Orange, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Substance Abuse Counselor Location: Pico Rivera, CA Employment Type: Permanent Salary: $25 - 28.00/hour Date Posted: August 06, 2026 Summary Manages and coordinates the substance abuse clinical ...

The GEO Group

SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELOR

Los Lunas, NM · On-site

$31.50/hr

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 ...

Clarvida

Substance Abuse Counselor

Long Beach, CA · On-site

$25 - $28/hr

Substance Abuse Counselor Location: Pico Rivera, CA Employment Type: Permanent Salary: $25 - 28.00/hour Date Posted: August 06, 2026 Summary Manages and coordinates the substance abuse clinical ...

The GEO Group

SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELOR

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$31.50/hr

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 ...

The GEO Group

SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELOR

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$31.50/hr

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 ...

UHS

Substance Abuse Counselor

Maitland, FL · On-site

$20.75 - $28/hr

Responsibilities Adult Certified Substance Abuse Counselor Per Diem Position * Free supervision for ... Supervision available for interns of marriage and family, mental health, and social work * Report ...

The GEO Group

SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELOR

Albuquerque, NM · On-site

$31.50/hr

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 ...

The GEO Group

SUBSTANCE ABUSE COUNSELOR

Los Lunas, NM · On-site

$31.50/hr

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 ...

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How much do substance abuse counselor internship jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for substance abuse counselor internship in the United States is $25.47, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $21.39 and $28.85 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a substance abuse counselor internship?

Substance Abuse Counselor Internships are supervised training positions for individuals pursuing a career in addiction counseling. Interns work under licensed professionals to gain hands-on experience helping clients with substance use disorders through counseling, assessment, and education. These internships are often required for students or recent graduates seeking certification or licensure as substance abuse counselors. Interns learn practical skills, ethical standards, and intervention techniques while supporting individuals on their recovery journey.

What are the qualifications to get a substance abuse counselor internship?

Substance abuse counselor internship opportunities are typically available to students actively completing a bachelor’s or master’s degree in public health, behavioral and social sciences, or a similar program. Some internship programs accept recent graduates as well. Most training occurs on-the-job, but you should be familiar with common terminology and general addiction and mental health knowledge. Additional qualifications include the ability to work with individuals from different backgrounds and excellent written and verbal communication skills.

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

To thrive as a Substance Abuse Counselor Intern, you typically need coursework in psychology or counseling, knowledge of addiction treatment principles, and enrollment in or completion of a relevant degree program. Familiarity with documentation systems, treatment planning software, and sometimes state-specific certification or supervision requirements are important. Strong interpersonal skills, active listening, and empathy help build trust and rapport with clients undergoing recovery. These competencies are crucial for effectively supporting clients, coordinating care, and fostering positive treatment outcomes in a sensitive environment.

What types of supervision and support can substance abuse counselor interns expect during their internship?

Substance Abuse Counselor Interns typically work closely under the guidance of licensed professionals who provide regular supervision, feedback, and mentorship. Interns can expect to participate in weekly supervision meetings where they discuss client cases, ethical considerations, and counseling techniques. Many organizations also offer structured training sessions, peer support groups, and opportunities to observe experienced counselors in action. This supportive environment is designed to help interns build confidence, develop essential counseling skills, and ensure compliance with industry standards and legal requirements.

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

AspectSubstance Abuse Counselor InternshipSubstance Abuse Counselor
Required CredentialsOften pursuing relevant certifications or degrees, some states require licensureRequires state licensure or certification, such as CADC or LCADC
Work EnvironmentInternship settings include clinics, rehab centers, and community programsFull-time roles in similar settings with more responsibilities
Employer & Industry UsageUsed as a training position within healthcare and mental health organizationsFull professional role within healthcare, mental health, and addiction services

The Substance Abuse Counselor Internship is a training position for individuals gaining experience and credentials, while the Substance Abuse Counselor is a licensed professional providing ongoing treatment and support. Internships serve as a stepping stone toward full licensure and career development in the field.

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Cities with the most Substance Abuse Counselor Internship job openings:

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

The most popular types of Substance Abuse Counselor jobs are:

What states have the most Substance Abuse Counselor Internship jobs?

States with the most job openings for Substance Abuse Counselor Internship jobs include:

Substance Abuse Counselor Internship jobs near you
Infographic showing various Substance Abuse Counselor Internship job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 86% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 67% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 32% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $52,978 per year, or $25.5 per hour.

Substance Abuse Counselor

Military Treatment Facilities under DHA

Portsmouth, VA • On-site, Remote

$62K - $81K/yr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago

Defense Health Agency rating

8.1

Company rating: 8.1 out of 10

Based on 84 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

68th of 898 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Summary
About the Position: This position is in the Directorate for Mental Health, Substance Abuse and Rehabilitation Program(SARP) Department, Naval Medical Center Portsmouth (NMCP), Virginia. This position is physically located on the NMCP campus. Work is performed in a multi-story SARP outpatient clinic, residential treatment facility, and inpatient mental health unit. The main SARP facility does not have an elevator.
This is a Direct Hire Solicitation
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Duties
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  • Provides initial patient interview, screening, biopsychosocial assessment, and individual and group counseling to patients (i.e., military members and family members with substance use and co-occurring disorders) following specified guidance.
  • Performs educational workshops, presentations, treatment coordination and appropriate clerical documentation in accordance with American Society of Addiction Medicine (ASAM) .
  • Assess patients for substance abuse disorders and other mental disorders according to the latest version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM).
  • Evaluates and makes professional judgments and decisions for situations that require immediate crisis intervention under the supervision of the Senior Counselor and Licensed Independent Provider (LIP).
  • Facilitates therapy, leads psychoeducational substance abuse and dependency issues groups, performs assessments, and makes treatment recommendations.
  • Assists in the training and supervision of addiction counselor interns and students. The incumbent is responsible for attending all required clinical supervision sessions.

Requirements
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Conditions of employment
  • Appointment may be subject to a suitability or fitness determination, as determined by a completed background investigation.
  • This position is required to be screened for and obtain necessary immunizations/vaccinations (hepatitis, influenza, etc.), unless exempted by a licensed physician.
  • This position requires a pre-employment physical and annually thereafter.
  • This position is designated Tier 3, Non-Critical Sensitive, Moderate Risk and requires the incumbent to obtain and maintain a Secret Security Clearance Level as a condition of employment.
  • Must obtain and maintain currency in Basic Life Support (BLS).
  • International Certification and Reciprocity Consortium (IC and RC) for Alcohol and Drug Counselors (ADC) OR an independent clinical license is required.

Qualifications
Who May Apply: US Citizens
In order to qualify, you must meet the education and/or experience requirements described below. Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application. Additional information about transcripts is in this document.
Basic Requirement for Substance Abuse Counselor
A. Degree: Bachelor's degree (or higher degree) in behavioral or social science, or related disciplines appropriate to the position, such as social work, psychology or substance abuse.
OR
B. Combination of Education and Experience: A combination of education and experience that provided the applicant with knowledge of one or more of the behavioral or social sciences equivalent to a major in the field.
OR
C. Experience: Four years of appropriate experience that demonstrated that the applicant has acquired knowledge of one or more of the behavioral or social sciences equivalent to a major in the field.
In addition to meeting the basic requirement above, to qualify for this position you must also meet the qualification requirements listed below:
Specialized Experience: One year of specialized experience which includes assisting healthcare providers with behavioral health treatment options for patients such as assisting with conducting interviews with patients to evaluate for substance abuse or other behavioral health disorders; assisting with maintaining patient treatment plan records to track patient's treatment progress; and assisting with the development of treatment plans to address psychosocial needs of patients. This specialized experience is equivalent to the GS-07 grade level in the Federal service.
Education
FOREIGN EDUCATION: If you are using education completed in foreign colleges or universities to meet the qualification requirements, you must show the education credentials have been evaluated by a private organization that specializes in interpretation of foreign education programs and such education has been deemed equivalent to that gained in an accredited U.S. education program; or full credit has been given for the courses at a U.S. accredited college or university. For further information, visit: https://sites.ed.gov/international/recognition-of-foreign-qualifications/.
Additional information
  • Male applicants born after December 31, 1959 must complete a Pre-Employment Certification Statement for Selective Service Registration.
  • You will be required to provide proof of U.S. Citizenship.
  • This position requires a 1 year probationary period during which the agency evaluates your fitness and whether your continued employment advances the public interest. In making this determination, the agency may consider your performance and conduct; agency needs and interests; whether your continued employment supports organizational or Government goals; and whether it promotes the efficiency of the Federal service. Continued employment requires written certification that it advances the public interest.
  • Direct Deposit of Pay is required.
  • Selection is subject to restrictions resulting from Department of Defense referral system for displaced employees.
  • Recruitment or relocation incentives MAY be authorized for highly qualified candidates.
  • Multiple positions may be filled from this announcement.
  • Salary includes applicable locality pay or Local Market Supplement.
  • If you have retired from federal service and you are interested in employment as a reemployed annuitant, see the information in the Reemployed Annuitant information sheet.
  • Payment of Permanent Change of Station (PCS) costs is not authorized, based on a determination that a PCS move is not in the Government interest.

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Candidates should be committed to improving the efficiency of the Federal government, passionate about the ideals of our American republic, and committed to upholding the rule of law and the United States Constitution.
Benefits
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A career with the U.S. government provides employees with a comprehensive benefits package. As a federal employee, you and your family will have access to a range of benefits that are designed to make your federal career very rewarding. Opens in a new windowLearn more about federal benefits.
Review our benefits
Eligibility for benefits depends on the type of position you hold and whether your position is full-time, part-time or intermittent. Contact the hiring agency for more information on the specific benefits offered.

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