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Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Riverside, CA (NOW HIRING)

Newport Academy

Credentialed Recovery Counselor

Orange, CA · On-site

$23.75 - $32/hr

... and substance abuse issues located in Orange County. The program combines the key elements ... Looking for Credentialed or Credential Eligible Recovery Counselor to work with adolescents ...

Newport Academy

Credentialed Recovery Counselor

Orange, CA · On-site

$23.75 - $32/hr

... and substance abuse issues located in Orange County. The program combines the key elements ... Looking for Credentialed or Credential Eligible Recovery Counselor to work with adolescents ...

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All JobsSubstance Abuse Counselor JobsSubstance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Riverside, CA

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$14

$26

$37

How much do substance abuse counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 2, 2026, the average hourly pay for substance abuse counselor in Riverside, CA is $26.57, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $22.31 and $30.10 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 Riverside, CA? The most popular types of Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What are popular job titles related to Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Riverside, CA? For Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Riverside, CA, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Riverside, CA look for? The top searched job categories for Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Riverside, CA are:
What cities near Riverside, CA are hiring for Substance Abuse Counselor jobs? Cities near Riverside, CA with the most Substance Abuse Counselor job openings:
Substance Abuse Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Substance Abuse Counselor job openings in Riverside, CA as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 3% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 16% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,271 per year, or $26.6 per hour.

Case Manager Substance Use Counselor - Mental Health 345

Telecare Corporation

San Bernardino, CA • On-site

$25.35 - $31.32/hr

Other

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted yesterday

New

Telecare Corporation rating

7.3

Company rating: 7.3 out of 10

Based on 56 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

305th of 887 rated healthcare providers

Job description

Description

"They made it easier for me to live, breathe, eat, and stay clean. Without them, I'd be waiting somewhere, waiting for someone to give me a chance to live..." - Client from Telecare

What You Will Do to Change Lives

The Case Manager Substance Use Counselor Certified serves as the primary support and case manager for individuals with mental illness by assisting them to live as independently as possible in their chosen community, focusing on substance abuse and addictions

Shifts Available:

Full-Time | AM | Shifts: 7:00 AM - 3:30 PM | Days: Monday - Friday

Expected starting wage range is $25.35 - $31.32. Telecare applies geographic differentials to its pay ranges. The pay range assigned to this role will be based on the geographic location from which the role is performed. Starting pay is commensurate with relevant experience above the minimum requirements.

What You Bring to the Table (Must Have)

  • High School Diploma or G.E.D and Certified Advanced Alcohol and Drug Counselor (CADC), or Certified Addiction Treatment Counselor (CATC), Substance Use Disorder Certified Counselor (SUDCC, SUDCC II, III, IV), or Chemical Dependency Professional (CDP in the state of WA). In AZ must be certified as Minimum state requirements as a Licensed Independent Substance Abuse Counselor (LISAC), Licensed Associate Substance Abuse Counselor (LASAC) or Licensed Substance Abuse Technician (LSAT)
  • Six (6) months' experience in addictions setting
  • All certifications must be maintained for duration of employment
  • Within two (2) months of employment, ability to apply financial requirements for billing and learn billing codes
  • Sensitivity to multi-cultural populations and issues
  • Must be credentialed as a qualified mental health professional, where applicable
  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • Must be CPR, First Aid, and CPI certified (hands-on course) on date of employment or prior to providing direct client care and maintain current certification throughout employment
  • Valid and current driver's license, and personal vehicle insurance with your name listed as a driver.
  • Willingness to use the company vehicle to drive clients to appointments and groups, etc.

What's In It For You*

  • Paid Time Off: Eligible employees (20+ hours/week) earn PTO each pay period for vacation and personal needs, with pro-rated accrual for part-time schedules and annual carryover up to set caps.
  • Nine Paid Holidays & Shift differentials for hourly staff (6% for PM Shift, 10% for Overnight Shift). Weekend Shift differentials for hourly staff (5% for Weekend AM Shift, 11% for Weekend PM Shift, 15% for Weekend Overnight Shift)
  • Free CEUs, free Supervision for BBS Associate License, coaching, and mentorship
  • Online University Tuition Discount and Company Scholarships
  • Medical, Vision, Dental Insurance, 401K, Employee Stock Ownership Plan
  • For more information visit:https://www.telecarecorp.com/benefits

Join Our Compassionate Team

Telecare's mission is to deliver excellent and effective behavioral health services that engage individuals in recovering their health, hopes, and dreams. Telecare continues to advance cultural diversity, humility, equity, and inclusion at all levels of our organization by hiring mental health peers, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, veterans, and all belief systems.

The Windsor Center is a short-stay crisis stabilization unit (CSU) that offers 24/7 services to adults and youth. The Windsor Center aims to increase access to crisis services, reduce inpatient hospitalization, reduce the amount of time that law enforcement is involved in a mental health crisis, and strengthen the existing outpatient behavioral health services.

EOE AA M/F/V/Disability

*May vary by location and position type

Full Job Description will be provided if selected for an interview.

If job posting references any sign-on bonus internal applicants and applicants employed with Telecare in the previous 12 months would not be eligible.

Qualifications

Education
High School (required)
GED (required)

Licenses & Certifications
Cert Alcohol Drug Couns (required)
Cert Addict Trtmnt Cnslr (required)
Chemical Depndcy Prof-WA (required)

Equal Opportunity Employer/Protected Veterans/Individuals with Disabilities
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.

What Telecare Corporation employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

Telecare logo

About Telecare

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in 1965, Telecare is a rapidly growing mental health care company dedicated to making a difference for our clients, the community, and our employees. We offer an array of mental health services to adults with serious mental illness. We partner with public sector entities and behavioral health organizations and have over 155 programs and over 4,300 employees across the country. And we're growing all the time! When you work at Telecare, you help to empower thousands of individuals every day in their journeys of recovery.

Industry

Offices of mental health practitioners

Company size

1,001 - 5,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Alameda, CA, US

Year founded

1965

Social media

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