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Substance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Rochester, MN (NOW HIRING)

NUWAY

CD Tech - Part-Time

Rochester, MN · On-site

$19 - $22/hr

The ideal candidate would have past experience in mental health or substance abuse and have both ... They assist on-duty counselors as required in direct support of program goals and objectives. CD ...

Mayo Clinic

Mind Body Medicine Counselor

Rochester, MN

$78K - $117K/yr

Qualifications Master's degree, preferably in a human service field (counseling, psychology, chemical dependence, social work, sociology, nursing) is required. A minimum of two years clinical ...

Mayo Clinic

Mind Body Medicine Counselor

Rochester, MN · On-site

$17.75 - $22.75/hr

Master's degree, preferably in a human service field (counseling, psychology, chemical dependence, social work, sociology, nursing) is required. A minimum of two years clinical experience preferred.

Mayo Clinic

Mind Body Medicine Counselor

Rochester, MN · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

Master's degree, preferably in a human service field (counseling, psychology, chemical dependence, social work, sociology, nursing) is required. A minimum of two years clinical experience preferred.

Mayo Clinic

Mind Body Medicine Counselor

Rochester, MN · On-site

$16 - $20.75/hr

Qualifications Master's degree, preferably in a human service field (counseling, psychology, chemical dependence, social work, sociology, nursing) is required. A minimum of two years clinical ...

Headway

Licensed Mental Health Counselor

Rochester, MN

$146/hr

" Licensed Mental Health Counselor (LMHC) Wage: Up to $146/hour Licensed Mental Health Counselor -- Are you ready to launch or expand your private practice? Headway is here to help you start accepting ...

All JobsSubstance Abuse Counselor JobsSubstance Abuse Counselor Jobs in Rochester, MN

Substance Abuse Counselor information

See Rochester, MN salary details

$13

$23

$32

How much do substance abuse counselor jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 22, 2026, the average hourly pay for substance abuse counselor in Rochester, MN is $23.36, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $19.62 and $26.44 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 Rochester, MN?

The most popular types of Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Rochester, MN are:

What are popular job titles related to Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Rochester, MN?

For Substance Abuse Counselor jobs in Rochester, MN, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What cities near Rochester, MN are hiring for Substance Abuse Counselor jobs?

Cities near Rochester, MN with the most Substance Abuse Counselor job openings:

Substance Abuse Counselor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Substance Abuse Counselor job openings in Rochester, MN as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 85% Full Time, and 15% Part Time. Highlights an 77% In-person, and 23% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $48,586 per year, or $23.4 per hour.

Licensed Alcohol & Drug Counselor (LADC)

MN Adult and Teen Challenge

Rochester, MN • On-site

$21.75 - $29.25/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 10 days ago

Job description

Purpose: Counsel clients and help them to become mentally sound, emotionally balanced, socially adjusted, physically well and spiritually alive.

Essential duties and responsibilities:

The Licensed Alcohol & Drug Counselor (LADC) is responsible to ensure and/or deliver and properly document the provision of treatment services including the Initial Service Plan, Comprehensive Assessment, Individual Treatment Plan, Progress Notes, Summary at Termination of Services, and the maintenance of client records in accordance with Minnesota Rule 9530 and MnTC policy.

Treatment Services

  • Upon service initiation, ensure that each client has an initial service plan which addresses the client’s immediate health, safety, and preliminary service needs.
  • Complete a comprehensive assessment and an assessment summary of the client's chemical use problems within three calendar days after service initiation. The assessment summary must be formatted utilizing the ASAM criteria.
  • Provide an Individual Treatment Plan after completion of the comprehensive assessment which is subject to amendment until services to the client are terminated. The individual treatment plan must include treatment goals, specific methods to be used to address identified problems, resources to which the client is being referred, and client goals.
  • Enter progress notes in each client’s file weekly or after each treatment service. The progress notes must reference the individual treatment plan.
  • Complete a discharge summary within five days of the client’s termination of services.
  • Ensure the content and format of client records be uniform and entries in each case are signed and dated.
  • Provide individual and group counseling, client education strategies to avoid inappropriate chemical use and health problems related to chemical use, transition services, and services to address issues related to co-occurring mental illness.
  • Lead client education lecture classes as required.
  • Participate in the weekly treatment team meetings to review and update client progress notes.
  • Initiate and maintain ongoing communication with client referral, probation, social service agencies, etc.

Continuing Education and Training

  • Stay current regarding professional research, techniques, etc.
  • Complete continuing education courses in current treatment concepts and methods as required by the State of Minnesota to maintain Alcohol and Drug Counselor license.
  • Attend in-house training and staff meetings.

Other

  • Other duties assigned by Supervisor.

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