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Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Racine, WI (NOW HIRING)

Gateway Foundation

Substance Abuse Counselor III

Gurnee, IL · On-site

$21.25 - $28.75/hr

Monday through Thursday from 12pm-9pm or 12:30pm-9:30pm and Friday day shift hours Certified Substance Abuse Counselors are responsible for: * Conducts comprehensive assessments and develops and ...

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All JobsSubstance Abuse Counselor JobsSubstance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Racine, WI

Substance Abuse Counselor information

See Racine, WI salary details

$13

$23

$33

How much do substance abuse counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for substance abuse counselor in Racine, WI is $23.88, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $20.05 and $27.07 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 more comprehensive healthcare funding. Experience, certifications, and working in private practice or specialized facilities can also increase earning potential.

What is the highest paid type of counselor?

In the counseling field, substance abuse counselors with advanced certifications, specialized skills, or experience in private practice tend to earn higher salaries. However, licensed mental health counselors and clinical psychologists generally have the highest earning potential among counseling professions due to their advanced education and broader scope of practice.

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 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.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Substance Abuse Counselor, and why are they important?

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 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 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.

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.

Is a substance abuse counselor a good career?

A substance abuse counselor is a rewarding career focused on helping individuals recover from addiction, often requiring relevant certifications and strong interpersonal skills. The job typically involves working in clinical or community settings and may offer opportunities for advancement and specialization. Job stability and demand are generally steady due to ongoing need for addiction treatment services.
More about Substance Abuse Counselor jobs
What are the most commonly searched types of Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Racine, WI? The most popular types of Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Racine, WI are:
What are popular job titles related to Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Racine, WI? For Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Racine, WI, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Racine, WI look for? The top searched job categories for Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Racine, WI are:
What cities near Racine, WI are hiring for Substance Abuse Counselor jobs? Cities near Racine, WI with the most Substance Abuse Counselor job openings:
Substance Abuse Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Substance Abuse Counselor job openings in Racine, WI as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 74% Full Time, 19% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 3% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $49,677 per year, or $23.9 per hour.
Substance Abuse Counselor

Substance Abuse Counselor

Community Medical Services

Milwaukee, WI • On-site

$22 - $29.50/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Description

Community Medical Services (CMS) is hiring a Substance Abuse Counselor to assist patients recovering from addictions to opioids and other illicit substances. Whether facilitating individual or group sessions, or assisting patients with treatment plans and coping strategies, your work will help foster a safe place for anyone looking to start their recovery journey with us.


At Community Medical Services, we believe our team members grow best in a culture that matches our patient-focused, outcomes-driven mission. Through our performance-based pay model, employees are eligible for quarterly increases in base pay that recognize dedication and results.


In line with our value of Continuous Learning, we support career progression through company-sponsored education, professional development, and reimbursement programs. Whether you're pursuing a leadership path or deepening expertise as an individual contributor, CMS offers mobility and opportunities to grow your career while making a difference.


Along the way, we'll invest in your well-being through a benefits package for full-time employees that includes:

  • Subsidized medical, dental, and vision insurance
  • Health savings account
  • Short and long-term disability insurance
  • Life insurance
  • Paid sick, vacation, and holiday time
  • 401K retirement plan with match
  • Tuition and CME reimbursement up to 100%
  • Employee assistance program to support your mental health and wellness
  • Ongoing professional development 

We're looking for someone who:

  • Is excited to work in an outpatient setting, much like a doctor's office or behavioral health clinic.
  • Enjoys a consistent schedule.
  • Is open to working with multi-cultural and low socio-economic individuals.

To thrive in this role, you must be able to:

  • Maintain and manage a caseload in compliance with regulatory standards and ratios.
  • Conduct individual sessions, facilitate group counseling and didactic educational presentations.
  • Complete comprehensive behavioral health assessments and individualized treatment plans, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and unique client needs.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of treatment through the ongoing assessment of the client and his/her natural supports that may result in modification to the service plan.
  • Coordinate care with other recovery and community-based service providers, engage in case management activity by sending referrals, completing documentation necessary to secure services, maintain chart compliance, etc.
  • Include family and natural supports in the client's treatment, per the client's preference.
  • Maintain and apply knowledge of new developments in the field of substance use as required by specific state licensure.
  • Maintain a collegian relationship with other substance use professionals, programs, and associations.
  • Maintain a thorough and comprehensive client record.
  • Serve as the point of contact for coordination and communication with other systems where clinical knowledge of the case is crucial.
  • Assist in screening and coordinating primary care services for clients.

Requirements

  • High School Diploma, GED or higher required with completion of 360 hours of specialized education in substance use disorder through a post-secondary institution or department approved education program.

ONE of the following licenses required:

  • License for Substance Use Counseling: SAC-IT, SAC or CSAC
  • License for Mental Health Counseling: LPC-IT, LPC, LMFT, APSW or LCSW
  • Behavioral health experience preferred

Notice to Wisconsin Employees:

  • All new hires must provide proof of MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) and Varicella (Chickenpox) vaccinations.
  • In addition, new hires should have a current flu vaccination or be willing to receive one.
  • Medical or religious exemptions for the flu vaccine are permitted. CMS will provide exemption forms, which must be completed and submitted prior to the start date.


#CONSL


About Community Medical Services

Community Medical Services (CMS) is a CARF-accredited addiction treatment program providing services in the form of outpatient medication-assisted treatment and one-on-one and group counseling to those seeking help with their opioid use disorder. Headquartered in Arizona with more than 70 treatment clinics in 14 states, CMS is dedicated to meeting the challenges presented by the growing opioid epidemic in communities where treatment is lacking.


Our Commitment

We are an equal employment opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.


Other Conditions

Please note this job description is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities that are required of the employee for this job. Duties, responsibilities, and activities may change at any time with or without notice.

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