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

Habilitation Counselor Are you looking for a way to further your career in human services ... substance abuse disorders, and/or conduct disorders preferred. * Active RBT and/or CNA license ...

As a Habilitation Counselor at Devereux, you will gain valuable experience while working alongside ... substance abuse disorders, and/or conduct disorders preferred. * Active RBT and/or CNA license ...

As a Habilitation Counselor at Devereux, you will gain valuable experience while working alongside ... substance abuse disorders, and/or conduct disorders preferred. * Active RBT and/or CNA license ...

As a Habilitation Counselor at Devereux, you will gain valuable experience while working alongside ... substance abuse disorders, and/or conduct disorders preferred. * Active RBT and/or CNA license ...

As a Habilitation Counselor at Devereux, you will gain valuable experience while working alongside ... substance abuse disorders, and/or conduct disorders preferred. * Active RBT and/or CNA license ...

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Substance Abuse Counselor information

See Decatur, GA salary details

$13

$24

$34

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.

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:

What are popular job titles related to Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Decatur, GA?

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:

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.

Primary Therapist

Mosaic Wellness & Recovery

Johns Creek, GA • On-site

$55K - $70K/yr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago


Job description

DESCRIPTION
Job description:
Mosaic Wellness and Recovery is hiring a qualified professional for the role of Primary psychotherapist. This position will be responsible to provide mental health and substance abuse counseling for our detox and residential programs located in Johns Creek. The idea candidate will hold a Master's Degree in psychology, counseling, social work or related field. In addition, the candidate will hold a professional license as a social worker, professional counselor or chemical dependency counselor in the state of Georgia. Additional requirements include at least 3 years of experience in the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavioral Therapy, Internal Family Systems, as familiarity with the treatment of substance abuse disorders.
Key Responsibilities:
  • Conduct Assessments: Perform initial and ongoing assessments to determine clients' mental health and substance use treatment needs.
  • Individual Therapy: Provide evidence-based individual therapy, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), Internal Family Systems (IFS), and other appropriate modalities.
  • Group Therapy: Facilitate group therapy sessions focused on the treatment of co-occurring disorders (mental health and substance use disorders), trauma recovery, relapse prevention, and other related topics.
  • Treatment Planning: Develop, implement, and regularly update individualized treatment plans in collaboration with clients, ensuring that all interventions align with their recovery goals.
  • Case Management: Coordinate care with other healthcare providers, social services, and support networks to ensure holistic treatment.
  • Crisis Intervention: Provide crisis intervention as needed, assessing risk, developing safety plans, and connecting clients with emergency services if required.
  • Documentation: Maintain accurate and timely clinical documentation in compliance with state regulations, licensing requirements, and company policies.
  • Collaboration: Work closely with psychiatrists, nurses, case managers, and other therapists to provide integrated care.
  • Education and Support: Educate clients and their families about substance use disorders, mental health conditions, treatment options, and healthy coping strategies.
  • Continued Professional Development: Stay current with advancements in the field of mental health and substance use treatment through ongoing training and professional development.

Qualifications:
  • Education: Master's degree in Social Work, Counseling, Psychology, or a related field.
  • Licensure: Appropriate licensure (e.g., LCSW, LPC, LMFT) in the state of Georgia.
  • Experience: Minimum of 2 years of clinical experience in substance use disorder treatment and/or mental health counseling.
  • Certifications: Certification in substance use disorder treatment (e.g., CADC, CAC) is preferred but not required. CPR certification, de-escalation, and restraint certification (training provided upon hire if needed).

Skills:
  • Proficiency in mental health counseling, and evidence-based therapies (CBT, DBT, Motivational Interviewing, Trauma-focused treatment modalities).
  • Skilled in individual and group therapy, crisis de-escalation, and relapse prevention for clients with co-occurring disorders.
  • Strong active listening, verbal, and written communication skills; works effectively with medical teams, case managers, and social workers.
  • Experience in treatment planning, client advocacy, cultural competency, and adherence to HIPAA and regulatory standards.
  • Ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple clients, adapt to high-stress environments, and think critically in complex cases.

Work Environment:
  • Full-time, on-site position
  • Weekend Coverage

Mosaic Wellness and Recovery is a drug free workplace.
Mosaic Wellness and Recovery is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to creating an inclusive and diverse workplace. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, veteran status, or any other protected status under applicable laws. We are dedicated to fostering a supportive and equitable environment for all employees and encourage individuals from underrepresented groups to apply.
REQUIREMENTS
Mosaic Wellness & Recovery is a leading behavioral health organization providing compassionate, evidence-based care for individuals struggling with substance use. At our beautiful facility located in Johns Creek, we offer detox and residential treatment. Our team is driven by purpose, excellence, authenticity, and hospitality, creating an environment where both our guests and employees can thrive. If you're passionate about making a meaningful difference, we'd love to have you join our team.