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Substance Abuse Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Salem City Schools

Substance Abuse Specialist

Salem, VA

$28.12 - $43/hr

SUBSTANCE ABUSE SPECIALIST GENERAL DEFINITION AND CONDITIONS OF WORK:This position will collaborate with school administrators to implement and monitor evidence-based substance abuse prevention ...

Saratoga Ascend

Substance Abuse Counselor

Portsmouth, VA

$21.75 - $29.50/hr

Substance Abuse Counselor Saratoga Medical has a wonderful opportunity and a full time opening for a Substance Abuse Counselor at Portsmouth Naval Base, VA. Saratoga has been helping the US military ...

Saratoga Ascend

Substance Abuse Counselor

Portsmouth, VA

$21.75 - $29.50/hr

Substance Abuse Counselor Saratoga Medical has a wonderful opportunity and a full time opening for a Substance Abuse Counselor at Portsmouth Naval Base, VA. Saratoga has been helping the US military ...

Counseling and Forensic Services

Be Seen First

Certified Substance Abuse Counselor

Leesburg, VA · On-site

$30 - $35/hr

Counseling and Forensic Services, Inc. (CFS) is seeking an experienced Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) to provide substance abuse counseling services to individuals involved with probation.

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How much do substance abuse jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 7, 2026, the average hourly pay for substance abuse in Virginia is $20.10, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.64 and $21.68 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a substance abuse counselor?

Substance abuse counselors are professionals who help individuals struggling with addiction to drugs, alcohol, or other substances. They provide support through counseling, treatment planning, and recovery strategies to help clients overcome their dependencies. These counselors may work in rehabilitation centers, hospitals, private practices, or community organizations. They often collaborate with families, doctors, and other health professionals to create comprehensive care plans. Their main goal is to guide clients toward lasting recovery and healthier lifestyles.

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 solid understanding of addiction, counseling techniques, and mental health, typically supported by a relevant degree and state certification or licensure. Familiarity with case management systems, assessment tools, and documentation software is crucial for tracking client progress and maintaining compliance. Excellent interpersonal skills, empathy, and the ability to build trust are essential soft skills for motivating clients and supporting recovery. These competencies are vital to effectively guide individuals through treatment, foster lasting behavioral change, and ensure ethical, compliant care.

What are some common challenges faced by substance abuse counselors in their daily work?

Substance abuse counselors often encounter challenges such as managing high caseloads, addressing relapse among clients, and navigating complex emotional situations. Building trust with clients who may be resistant to treatment is a key aspect, as is maintaining professional boundaries while offering empathetic support. Counselors also collaborate closely with healthcare providers, social workers, and family members to create comprehensive treatment plans, which requires strong communication and organizational skills.

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

AspectSubstance AbuseSubstance Abuse Counselor
CredentialsNone required, but certifications can enhance job prospectsCertification or licensure often required (e.g., CADC, LADC)
Work EnvironmentHealthcare facilities, community clinics, hospitals, rehab centersRehab centers, outpatient clinics, hospitals, community organizations
Job RoleFocuses on the condition of substance abuse itselfProvides counseling, support, and treatment planning for clients

Substance Abuse refers to the condition involving harmful or hazardous use of substances, while a Substance Abuse Counselor is a professional who helps individuals overcome substance abuse issues through counseling and support. The counselor role requires specific credentials and involves direct client interaction, whereas substance abuse as a condition can be diagnosed and treated by various healthcare providers.

How to work in substance abuse?

To work in substance abuse, individuals typically need a relevant degree such as a bachelor's or master's in social work, psychology, or counseling. Certification or licensure, such as becoming a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor (LADC), is often required, along with strong communication and empathy skills. Experience in counseling, healthcare, or social services can also be beneficial.

What are the most commonly searched types of Substance Abuse jobs in Virginia?

The most popular types of Substance Abuse jobs in Virginia are:

What are popular job titles related to Substance Abuse jobs in Virginia?

For Substance Abuse jobs in Virginia, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Substance Abuse jobs in Virginia look for?

The top searched job categories for Substance Abuse jobs in Virginia are:

What cities in Virginia are hiring for Substance Abuse jobs?

Cities in Virginia with the most Substance Abuse job openings:

Substance Abuse jobs near you
Infographic showing various Substance Abuse job openings in Virginia as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 66% Full Time, 28% Part Time, and 6% Contract. Highlights an 97% In-person, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $41,813 per year, or $20.1 per hour.

Substance Abuse Specialist

Salem City Schools

Salem, VA

$28.12 - $43/hr

Part-time

Re-posted 6 days ago

Key responsibilities

  • Collaborate with school administrators to implement and monitor evidence-based substance abuse prevention programs, assessments, and intervention techniques in the classroom and school setting.

  • Conduct small group and individual sessions with students to promote prevention of substance use and provide support and education.

  • Maintain accurate records of student interactions and progress, and evaluate program effectiveness.

Job description

Salem City is searching for qualified applicants for a part-time Substance Abuse Specialist for the 2026-2027 school year. This is approximately 4 hours per day, 5 days per week. This is a part-time position, thus ineligible for benefits.

This position is open until filled. SUBSTANCE ABUSE SPECIALIST GENERAL DEFINITION AND CONDITIONS OF WORK:This position will collaborate with school administrators to implement and monitor evidence-based substance abuse prevention programs, assessments, and intervention techniques in the classroom and school setting to promote healthy behaviors and student well-being. The specialist may provide support and counseling services to students; provide case management; monitor students' progress and make referrals, as appropriate; does related work as required.

Work is performed under the regular supervision of the School Principal and the Coordinator of Student Services. This is a non-exempt position as defined by the Fair Labor Standards Act. This is light work requiring the exertion of up to 20 pounds of force occasionally, up to 10 pounds of force frequently, and a negligible amount of force constantly to move objects; work requires reaching, fingering, grasping, and repetitive motions; vocal communication is required for expressing or exchanging ideas by means of the spoken word; hearing is required to perceive information at normal spoken word levels; visual acuity is required for preparing and analyzing written or computer data, determining the accuracy and thoroughness of work, and observing general surroundings and activities; the worker is not subject to adverse environmental conditions.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS/TYPICAL TASKS:Providing support and education to individuals and groups of students. The Substance Abuse Specialist also.....Implements evidence-based substance abuse prevention program(s) in the middle school and high school grade levels;Conducts small groups and individual sessions with students to promote prevention of substance use;Conducts assessments and screenings to identify students at risk of substance abuse and provides appropriate interventions, as needed;Maintains accurate and up-to-date records of student interactions and progress;Collects data and evaluates program effectiveness;Offers resources to parents/guardians and facilitates communication between home and school environments;Serves as a liaison between the school and community agenciesStays informed of trends, current research, and best practices in substance abuse and prevention;Acts as a resource to administrators and staff regarding substance abuse and prevention and assists with conducting staff development activities;Participates in professional development activities, conferences, and workshops to stay updated on current programs;Performs related tasks as required. KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES:Thorough knowledge of substance abuse counseling; ability to implement a strategic program; ability to deliver presentations to students, staff, and parents that effectively communicates information; ability to understand and follow complex oral and written instructions; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with students, teachers, parents and the general public

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:Any combination of education and experience equivalent to high school diploma or Bachelor's degree in human services or related field with experience in substance abuse prevention/treatment for school aged children. Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC) or Certified Substance Abuse Counselor Assistant (CSAC-A) or certificate eligible is preferred, but not required. March 2024 SALEM CITY SCHOOLS IS AN EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER.

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