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Substance Abuse Evaluation Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Substance Abuse Counselor

Ames, IA · On-site

$21.75 - $29.25/hr

Completes and documents comprehensive substance abuse evaluation and psychosocial assessment of the patient and/or the situation. * Analyzes the assessment data to develop the patient's problems list.

New

Participates in the evaluation of counseling methods for the effective treatment of substance abuse related problems * Prepares correspondence and reports as required * Properly documents client ...

Participates in the evaluation of counseling methods for the effective treatment of substance abuse related problems * Prepares correspondence and reports as required * Properly documents client ...

Actively pursues and develops referrals from probation and evaluating agencies. * The Substance Abuse Counselor provides re-entry follow up services at regular intervals, in coordination with other ...

Actively pursues and develops referrals from probation and evaluating agencies. * The Substance Abuse Counselor provides re-entry follow up services at regular intervals, in coordination with other ...

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Substance Abuse Evaluation information

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How much do substance abuse evaluation jobs pay per hour?

As of Aug 29, 2026, the average hourly pay for substance abuse evaluation in the United States is $20.28, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.79 and $21.88 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a substance abuse evaluation?

A substance abuse evaluation is a professional assessment used to determine if an individual has problems related to drug or alcohol use. The process typically involves an interview, questionnaires, and sometimes drug testing to gather information about a person's substance use history, mental health, and social circumstances. The results help professionals make recommendations for treatment, counseling, or other necessary support. Evaluations are often required by courts, employers, or treatment programs to guide decision-making and ensure appropriate care. The evaluation is confidential and conducted by trained and licensed professionals.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a substance abuse evaluator, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Substance Abuse Evaluator, you need a background in psychology, social work, or counseling, often supported by relevant licensure or certification such as LCDC or CADC. Familiarity with assessment tools like the Addiction Severity Index (ASI), DSM-5 diagnostic criteria, and electronic health record systems is typically required. Strong interpersonal skills, nonjudgmental communication, and cultural sensitivity help build trust and accurately assess clients. These competencies are crucial for delivering effective evaluations, determining appropriate treatment plans, and supporting individuals on their path to recovery.

What are the main challenges faced by professionals conducting substance abuse evaluations, and how can they prepare for them?

Professionals conducting substance abuse evaluations often encounter challenges such as building trust with clients who may be reluctant to disclose sensitive information, navigating complex cases involving co-occurring mental health disorders, and maintaining objectivity while adhering to legal and ethical guidelines. To prepare, evaluators should develop strong communication and interviewing skills, stay updated on current assessment tools and best practices, and participate in ongoing training related to substance use disorders and cultural competency. Collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, including counselors, medical professionals, and legal representatives, also supports more comprehensive and effective evaluations.

What is the difference between Substance Abuse Evaluation vs Substance Abuse Counselor?

AspectSubstance Abuse EvaluationSubstance Abuse Counselor
CredentialsLicensed or certified evaluator, often with clinical or counseling credentialsLicensed or certified counselor, often with a degree in counseling or social work
Work EnvironmentAssessment centers, clinics, courts, or treatment programsRehabilitation centers, outpatient clinics, community agencies
Primary FocusConducting assessments to determine substance abuse issues and treatment needsProviding ongoing counseling and support for recovery
Usage in IndustryOften involved in legal or court-mandated evaluationsDirect client counseling and therapy sessions

Substance Abuse Evaluation specialists focus on assessing clients' substance use and determining treatment needs, often working in assessment centers or legal settings. Substance Abuse Counselors provide ongoing therapy and support to help clients recover. While both roles require relevant certifications, their primary functions and work environments differ significantly.

What do you do at a substance abuse evaluation?

A substance abuse evaluation involves assessing an individual's substance use history, mental health, and overall behavior to determine the extent of substance use issues. The evaluator may use interviews, questionnaires, and standardized tools, and the process often results in recommendations for treatment or further assessment.

What do you need to become a substance abuse evaluation in New Mexico?

To become a substance abuse evaluator, you typically need a relevant license or certification such as a substance abuse counselor or therapist license, which requires completing specific education, supervised experience, and passing an exam. Additionally, familiarity with state regulations and documentation procedures is essential. Continuing education may be required to maintain licensure or certification.
More about Substance Abuse Evaluation jobs

What cities are hiring for Substance Abuse Evaluation jobs?

Cities with the most Substance Abuse Evaluation job openings:

What states have the most Substance Abuse Evaluation jobs?

States with the most job openings for Substance Abuse Evaluation jobs include:

Infographic showing various Substance Abuse Evaluation job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 2% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 16% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 89% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 9% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $42,175 per year, or $20.3 per hour.

$21.75 - $29.25/hr

Full-time

Posted 2 days ago

New


Mary Greeley Medical Center rating

6.4

Company rating: 6.4 out of 10

Based on 19 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

751st of 1,064 rated hospitals


Job description

  • Position Summary
    • Implements individualized services to meet the substance abuse and psychosocial counseling needs of patients and their families for the organization. Enables patients to properly utilize medical care and health resources in achieving their optimal level of physical and emotional health. Ensures all actions taken in carrying out these responsibilities in support of patient centered care.
  • Position Responsibilities
    • Unit Specific Position Responsibilities
      • Practices ethically.
      • Communicates effectively in all areas of practice.
      • Facilitates collaboration between patient, family, and the interdisciplinary team in the provision of therapeutic practice.
      • Evaluates her or his own practice in relation to professional practice standards and guidelines, relevant statutes, rules, and regulations.
      • Utilizes appropriate resources to plan and provide services that are safe, effective, and financially responsible.
      • Respects diversity and individualizes care to meet the unique needs of the patient.
      • Establishes partnerships with patients, families, support systems, and other providers, utilizing verbal and electronic communications to deliver health care services.
      • Completes and documents comprehensive substance abuse evaluation and psychosocial assessment of the patient and/or the situation.
      • Analyzes the assessment data to develop the patient's problems list.
      • Identifies expected outcomes and treatment plan individualized to the patient or the situation.
      • Develops interventions, strategies and alternatives to attain expected outcomes
      • Implements the identified plan by providing psychosocial interventions, substance abuse counseling, education and supportive interventions in a way that builds a relationship between therapist and patient. Documents delivery of these services.
      • Facilitates the patient discharge planning process and documents relevant information.
      • Assists patient/family in determining/acquiring financial resources for payment of clinical services.
      • Evaluates and documents progress toward attainment of outcomes.
      • Maintains and improves the healthcare practice environment conducive to the provision of quality health care.
      • Attains knowledge and competence that reflects current professional therapy practice.
      • Maintains professional competence.
      • Continually reassesses competencies and identifies needs for additional knowledge, skills, personal growth, and integrative learning experiences
      • Integrates evidence and research findings into practice.
      • Contributes to and assists in development of quality professional substance abuse counseling practice.
      • Demonstrates leadership in the professional practice setting and the profession.
      • Practices in an environmentally safe and healthy manner.
      • Performs de-escalation and violence management interventions to manage physical/verbal aggression by patients.
      • Coordinate and lead group activities as scheduled/needed
      • Facilitates placement and appointments for all patients she completes substance evaluations on.
      • Supervises students as oversees orientees as needed.
      • Keeps data regarding evaluations and placement opportunities
  • Qualifications, Knowledge & Experience
    • Required Qualifications (Including any licensure, certification, education):
      • Certification as by the Iowa Board of Substance Abuse Certification.
      • Basic Life Support (BLS) training, or within 90 days of hire and must maintain throughout employment
      • Mandatory Reporter training or within 90 days of hire and must maintain throughout employment.
    • Organizational Requirements:
      • Maintain stroke education per regulatory requirements.
    • Preferred Qualifications:
      • One year of experience.
    • Required Knowledge, Skills & Experience:
      • Skill in effective oral and written communication in English.
      • Knowledge of basic arithmetic and its applications.
      • Knowledge of the structure and content of the English language including the meaning and spelling of words, rules of composition, and grammar.
      • Active Listening skills, giving full attention to what other people are saying, taking time to understand the points being made, asking questions as appropriate, and not interrupting at inappropriate times
      • Ability to use logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems.
      • Ability to manage one's time effectively.
      • Ability to pursue and foster a sense of team and partnership across all disciplines
    • Preferred Knowledge, Skills & Experience:
      • None Specified

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