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Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Decatur, GA (NOW HIRING)

Georgia

Behavioral Hlth Counselor 1

Atlanta, GA · On-site

$45K - $47K/yr

  • Medical

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Credentialing (i.e., Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC), Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CADC/CAC), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), or comparable credential). SOFT SKILLS:

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How much do substance abuse counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average hourly pay for substance abuse counselor in Decatur, GA is $24.87, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.87 and $28.17 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What does a substance abuse counselor do?

A Substance Abuse Counselor helps individuals struggling with drug, alcohol, or other substance dependencies to overcome their addictions and lead healthier lives. They provide counseling, support, and treatment planning, often working with clients individually and in group settings. These counselors also educate clients on coping strategies, coordinate care with other healthcare professionals, and may assist with crisis intervention. Their work is essential in supporting recovery and preventing relapse.

What does a substance abuse counselor do?

A substance abuse counselor works with patients who struggle with addiction to drugs and alcohol. A substance abuse counselor provides treatment with the goals of crisis care, prevention, and recovery. Part of a substance abuse counselor’s work is to conduct individual and group counseling sessions. A substance abuse counselor also interviews potential patients for treatment programs, reviews and maintains patient records, and develops treatment plans for patients on their caseload.

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

To thrive as a Substance Abuse Counselor, you need a background in psychology, counseling, or social work, often requiring at least a bachelor's degree and state certification or licensure. Familiarity with case management software and standardized assessment tools is typically expected. Strong interpersonal skills, empathy, and the ability to build trust are crucial for supporting clients through recovery. These competencies enable counselors to provide effective treatment, foster client engagement, and navigate complex emotional and behavioral challenges.

What are some common challenges substance abuse counselors face when working with clients, and how are they addressed?

Substance Abuse Counselors often encounter challenges such as client relapse, resistance to treatment, and managing high caseloads. To address these, counselors employ evidence-based techniques like motivational interviewing, engage in continuous professional development, and collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams including social workers, medical professionals, and family members. Regular supervision, peer support, and self-care practices are also essential to manage the emotional demands of the role and maintain effectiveness in supporting clients through recovery.

What is the difference between Substance Abuse Counselor vs Mental Health Counselor?

AspectSubstance Abuse CounselorMental Health Counselor
CredentialsCertification (e.g., CADC, CAC)Licensing (e.g., LMHC, LCSW)
Work EnvironmentRehabilitation centers, clinics, outpatient programsHospitals, clinics, private practices
Employer & IndustrySubstance abuse treatment facilities, healthcare providersMental health clinics, hospitals, community agencies
Common Search/ComparisonYesYes

Substance Abuse Counselors primarily focus on helping clients overcome addiction and substance-related issues, often working in specialized treatment centers. Mental Health Counselors address a broader range of mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and trauma, in various settings. While both roles require counseling skills and relevant certifications, Substance Abuse Counselors typically hold specific credentials related to addiction treatment. Understanding these differences can help individuals choose the right career path or find appropriate support services.

Is a substance abuse counselor a good career?

A substance abuse counselor is a rewarding career that involves helping individuals recover from addiction through counseling and support. It typically requires relevant certifications, strong communication skills, and the ability to work in various settings such as clinics or community programs. Job growth in this field is steady, and it offers opportunities for personal fulfillment and professional development.

What degree is best for a substance abuse counselor?

A bachelor's degree in psychology, social work, counseling, or a related field is typically required to become a substance abuse counselor. Many employers prefer or require a master's degree in counseling, psychology, or social work for advanced positions and licensure eligibility.

Where do substance abuse counselors make the most money?

Substance abuse counselors tend to earn higher salaries in regions with a higher cost of living and greater demand for mental health services, such as urban areas or states with well-funded healthcare systems. Experience, certifications, and working in private practice or specialized facilities can also increase earning potential.
More about Substance Abuse Counselor jobs

What are the most commonly searched types of Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Decatur, GA?

The most popular types of Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Decatur, GA are:

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For Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Decatur, GA, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Decatur, GA look for?

The top searched job categories for Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Decatur, GA are:

What cities near Decatur, GA are hiring for Substance Abuse Counselor jobs?

Cities near Decatur, GA with the most Substance Abuse Counselor job openings:

Substance Abuse Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Substance Abuse Counselor job openings in Decatur, GA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 73% Full Time, 22% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,724 per year, or $24.9 per hour.

Addictions / Substance Abuse Counselor

New Beginnings Today

Atlanta, GA

$18 - $25/hr

Contractor

Re-posted 22 days ago

Job description

The Addictions / Substance Abuse Counselor will provide ADSS and individualized one-on-one substance use recovery services and supports which build on the strengths and resilience of the individual


Minimum Qualifications, Education & Experience:

  • Must be certified in the state of Georgia as a CAADC, ICAADC, GCADC-III, MAC, GCADC-II, CADC-II, ICADC-II, or CAC-II. Opportunity to provide lower level clinicians supervision.
  • Current credential as a Substance Use Disorder/Addiction Counselor issued by a state, international or credentialing authority.
  • Person must have a minimum of 1-year experience working with clientele suffering from MH/SA issues and their families.
  • Under supervision of an appropriately licensed/credentialed professional upon employment, as needed.
  • Must maintain yearly professional liability insurance.
  • Certification education/degree/experience required:
    • Master's degree or above in human services with a clinical application (CAADC, ICAADC, GCADC-II) OR
    • Master's degree documentation of a minimum of 12 semester hours of graduate coursework in the area or 500 CE hours specifically in addictions OR Master's degree or higher in substance use disorders/addiction and/or counseling related subjects (MAC) OR
    • Bachelor's degree. Meet the legal standards set forth in GA Code 43- 10A-7 (GCADC-II, CADC-II, ICADC-II, CAC-II).


Duties Include:

  1. Provide individualized one-on-one substance use recovery services and supports which build on the strengths and resilience of the individual.
  2. Services limited to the provision of chemical dependency treatment.
  3. Responsible for staffing cases when assigned, when requested, and when you believe necessary.
  4. Provide designated services as dictated by active/current treatment plan of the individual in treatment.
  5. Render crisis protocol, as needed.
  6. Present cases in the treatment team meetings.
  7. Assist treatment team in revising goals.
  8. Evaluate and document consumer's progress towards their goals and make appropriate referrals.
  9. Provide crisis intervention, as needed.
  10. Adhere to all responsibilities identified by NBT Administrative personnel such as Clinical Director or Supervisor.

Teamwork & Communication:

  1. Demonstrate cooperation.
  2. Collaborating with other professionals.
  3. Be a productive member of the staff.
  4. Communicate effectively, clearly, and appropriately and ensure client care and clinician concerns are known.
  5. Use excellent judgment.
  6. Prompt arrival to sessions/meetings is strongly encouraged.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, sex, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity, status as a veteran, and basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.






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