1

Substance Abuse Intern Jobs (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

Substance Abuse Intern information

See salary details

$8

$17

$24

How much do substance abuse intern jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 14, 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

PREFERRED BEHAVIORAL HEALTH OF NEW JERSEY

Barnegat, NJ โ€ข On-site

$40K - $50K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 4 days ago


Job description

If you are looking to make an impact by helping others, then Preferred Behavioral Health Group is the place for you! By joining our award-winning team, you will become part of the premier behavioral health organization in New Jersey. PBHG is a dynamic and innovative non-profit organization that was proudly named one of "THE BEST PLACES TO WORK IN NEW JERSEY" for 2024 by NJBIZ! Our mission is to change lives and save lives across the state of New Jersey through a Trauma Informed Care culture.

Our staff is at the core of everything we do. We are dedicated to building a diverse team where employees feel a sense of belonging and are valued for their individual contributions. We encourage staff development and embrace a growth mindset. If you are interested in pursuing an exciting and rewarding career while being part of a recognized โ€œBest Place to Workโ€, please submit your resume today for consideration!

Job Title: Substance Abuse Counselor Intern

Program: Recovery Support Services

location: Barnegat office - 848 W Bay Avenue, Barnegat NJ

Position Type: Full Time

Salary: $40,000.00 - $50,000.00

Based on experience and licensure

Job Summary

A Counselor Intern shall work under the supervision of an LCADC, or another health professional licensed to supervise work of an alcohol or drug counseling nature within their scope of practice. A Counselor Intern cannot diagnose substance abuse without the signature approval of an LCADC or other clinical supervisor approved to do so. The Substance Abuse Counselor Intern shall be responsible for the following

The Substance Abuse Counselor Intern shall be responsible for the following:

  • Assessing the counseling needs of the clients.
  • Assessing clients using the Addiction Severity Index in NJSAMS or other standardized clinical interview tool, and diagnosing clients for substance use disorder using the DSM-5.
  • Facilitate group sessions, utilizing evidence-based interventions to support client engagement, treatment goals, skill development, and recovery within a structured therapeutic environment.
  • Determining the appropriate level of care according to ASAM Criteria.
  • Obtaining previous records that are relevant to the current treatment episode.
  • Unless clinically contraindicated, collaborating with the client to develop a written individual recovery plan that includes goals and measurable objectives, and is client centered, recovery oriented.
  • Providing the substance abuse counseling services specified in the client treatment plan.
  • Reviewing clients throughout the treatment episode according to the ASAM Criteria, to determine the need for continued services, transfer, or discharge/transfer.
  • Reviewing and, where necessary, revising the client treatment plan to address ongoing problems.
  • Developing a client discharge/transfer plan to ensure movement to the appropriate levels of care.
  • Contact, case consultation if necessary, and coordination with referral sources, (for example, mental health treatment providers, criminal justice agencies, schools, employers, DCPP).
  • Participating as a member of a multidisciplinary team for assigned clients.
  • Providing active case consultation.
  • Documenting all counseling and education services, assessments, reassessments, referrals and follow-up in the client's clinical record, and providing appropriate signatures and dating of such entries, including those made in electronic records.
  • Complete documentation within 24 hours of service for all group and individual sessions.
  • To understand and utilize Electronic Record System (Qualifacts) at PBH.
  • Complete all designated Essential Learning courses.
  • A Counselor Intern shall work under the supervision of an LCADC, or another health professional licensed to supervise work of an alcohol or drug counseling nature within their scope of practice. A Counselor Intern cannot diagnose substance abuse without the signature approval of an LCADC or other clinical supervisor approved to do so.
  • Obtain all clinical authorizations after assessment and ongoing.

Competencies:

  • Demonstrating knowledge in levels of care index (LOCI).
  • Presenting cases in a coherent, formal professional manner which demonstrates appropriate clinical judgment and clinical technique.
  • Understanding and utilizing Electronic Health Record (Carelogic - Qualifacts).
  • Attending staff meetings as assigned by Supervisor.
  • Adhering to SUS department dress code.
  • Maintaining complete knowledge of SUS and PBHG policies and procedures.
  • Maintaining complete understanding of urine testing policies and procedures.
  • Completing oral and written tests for certification/licensing.
  • Maintains required CPR, and first aid education/certification.

Qualifications

  • Education: Be enrolled in a course of study leading to CADC or LCADC status, or to another health professional license that includes work of an alcohol and drug counseling nature within its scope of practice, without regard to changes in employment, with progress towards certification or licensing on file, reviewed by the facility at least semiannually and documented; and N.J.A.C. 10:161B-1.9 ii
  • Be trained, evaluated and receiving continuing formal clinical supervision by the Director of Substance Use Services or designee, pursuant to the clinical supervision rules of the State health professional licensing board for the course of study in which they are enrolled: the Board of Marriage and Family Therapy Examiners (BMFTE) for licensed marriage and family therapists; the BMFTE's Professional Counselor Examiners Committee for licensed professional counselors; the BMFTE's Alcohol and Drug Counselor Committee for LCADC and CADC; the State Board of Psychological Examiners for licensed psychologists; and the State Board of Social Work Examiners for licensed clinical social workers.
  • Counseling staff employed in an outpatient treatment facility subsequent to June 1, 2009 shall have three years from the date of employment to obtain LCADC or CADC status or another health professional license that includes work of an alcohol or drug counseling nature within its scope of practice.

Pre- and Post-Employment Screening/Testing/Examinations:

  • Candidates for this position must submit to a criminal history check, supported by fingerprinting, prior to employment.
  • Candidates for this position must submit to drug and alcohol screening prior to employment, and in accordance with PBHG policy, thereafter.
  • Employee must obtain a physical exam prior to start date, and every three years, thereafter.
  • Employee must submit to Mantoux/TB testing prior to start date, and TB Symptom Assessment form annually, thereafter.
  • Produce proof of Rubeola and Rubella

Comprehensive Benefits Package:

o Medical, Dental and Prescription Insurance

o 403(b) Retirement Plan

o Generous Paid Time Off and Paid Holidays

o Long Term Disability Insurance

o Life and AD&D Insurance

o Employee Assistance Program

o Flexible Spending Account and Health Savings Account

o Voluntary Benefits, such as Vision Insurance, Aflac, Pet Insurance

o Staff Training and Development Opportunities

o Employee Referral Bonus program

eoe