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Substance Abuse Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

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Substance Abuse Intern information

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How much do substance abuse intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 13, 2026, the average hourly pay for substance abuse intern in the United States is $17.04, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $14.42 and $19.23 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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

AspectSubstance Abuse InternSubstance Abuse Counselor
Required CredentialsOften pursuing or holds a related degree, may have limited certificationLicensed or certified, with relevant state licensure
Work EnvironmentInternship settings, supervised environments, clinics, rehab centersIndependent or team-based counseling settings, clinics, rehab centers
Employer & Industry UsageHospitals, clinics, non-profits, government programsRehab centers, mental health clinics, private practices
Common Search & ComparisonEntry-level, training, internship rolesLicensed, experienced professionals

The main difference is that Substance Abuse Interns are typically in training or internship roles, often pursuing relevant degrees and working under supervision. Substance Abuse Counselors are licensed professionals with full certification, able to provide independent counseling services. Interns gain experience and observe, while counselors actively treat clients and develop treatment plans.

What are some common challenges Substance Abuse Interns face when working with clients, and how can they effectively handle these situations?

Substance Abuse Interns often encounter clients who may be resistant to treatment, experience strong emotions, or have complex personal backgrounds. Building trust and maintaining professional boundaries can be challenging but is essential for effective support. Interns can handle these situations by practicing active listening, participating in regular supervision for guidance, and utilizing evidence-based interventions under the mentorship of experienced counselors. Developing strong communication and self-care skills also helps interns navigate emotionally demanding interactions.

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

To thrive as a Substance Abuse Intern, you generally need foundational knowledge in addiction counseling, psychology, or social work, often supported by enrollment in a relevant degree program. Familiarity with case management software, clinical documentation systems, and basic counseling techniques is typically expected. Compassion, strong listening skills, and the ability to maintain confidentiality are standout soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are crucial for building trust with clients, supporting recovery, and contributing effectively to a treatment team.

What are substance abuse interns?

Substance abuse interns are students or recent graduates who are gaining supervised, practical experience in the field of addiction counseling and treatment. They typically work in rehabilitation centers, clinics, or community organizations, assisting licensed professionals with client assessments, group therapy, educational programs, and case management. The internship allows them to apply theoretical knowledge from their academic studies to real-world situations, develop counseling skills, and fulfill requirements for certification or licensure in substance abuse counseling.
What cities are hiring for Substance Abuse Intern jobs? Cities with the most Substance Abuse Intern job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Substance Abuse jobs? The most popular types of Substance Abuse jobs are:
What states have the most Substance Abuse Intern jobs? States with the most job openings for Substance Abuse Intern jobs include:

Substance Abuse Counselor (533)

HELEN FARABEE CENTER

Haskell, TX

$16.79 - $21.15/hr

Full-time

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

Works under the direct supervision of Substance Abuse Services (SAS) Clinical Manager and/or Program Director.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

Performs moderately complex substance abuse counseling work. Work involves planning, coordinating, and implementing substance abuse counseling activities, and coordinating with other departments, divisions, agencies, and community organizations to ensure the maximum utilization of resources available for chemical dependency treatment and rehabilitation. Facilitates substance abuse program services as directed and approved by the SAS Program Director and the counselor's immediate supervisor - SAS Clinical Manager. Screens and coordinates admissions into Center outpatient adolescent and adult substance abuse services. Works under general supervision with moderate latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Helen Farabee Centers (HFC) incorporates principles of trauma-informed care, which includes cultural sensitivity, in all areas of service delivery. All job descriptions include the responsibility to learn about and implement trauma-informed practices within the scope of work for the position. Reassignment is a condition of employment that may occur at the employer's discretion. Your work location and hours could change based on program needs.

Education, Training, and Experience

Must hold at least a high school diploma (an associate degree or more advanced degree preferred) and have current full licensure as a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor, Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) or LPC Intern, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) or LMFT Associate, or Licensed Clinical Social Worker by the Texas Department of State Health Services. If a LPC Intern or LMFT Associate, individual must comply with terms of that supervision as outlined in the state of Texas licensure requirements. All individuals must meet the educational and experience exemptions/waivers as outlined in DSHS chapter 450.109, pass criminal history standards which includes fingerprints as described in 450.115, sign a written agreement to abide by the ethics contained in 450.121, and be worthy of public trust and confidence as determined by Department of State Health Services. Must be able to pass a pre-employment drug screen to work with this population. Must have current driver's license and be insurable under Center insurance. Must pass all Center and Substance Abuse Services department mandated trainings.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

  • Knowledge of chemical dependency, chemical abuse that is inclusive of alcoholism and drug addiction as treatable diseases, workable knowledge of the DSM-5 TR to support diagnoses relating to substance abuse and mental health disorders, co-dependency, relapse prevention, family dynamics, support groups in the community setting, and related disorders. Possess knowledge of counseling techniques, importance of evidence-based practices, willingness to implement these practices, and knowledge of recovery processes.
  • Ability to interview, screen, build rapport with, and evaluate consumers; to counsel others; to instruct others; to aid in the implementation and the facilitation of chemical dependency treatment programs; to prepare concise reports; and to maintain records.
  • Ability to write progress notes according to standard, assessments, memos, letters, various complex reports and miscellaneous other documents with acceptable spelling and grammar.
  • Ability to relate verbal instructions, communicate in a courteous and effective fashion with co-workers, consumers, families, agencies, and the public.
  • Display a consumer service orientation; at all times treating consumers with respect and as partners in the recovery process.
  • Skilled in the use of personal and network computers, word processing, database, spreadsheet, and office management software (Microsoft Office), familiarity with CMBHS and/or Smartcare is a plus.
  • Ability to abide by the Centers' and the specific SAS Department's policies and procedures. Demonstration of knowledge of the Texas Administrative Codes specific to delivery of substance abuse services and the ability to abide by the guidelines set forth in the Texas Administrative Code.